Only last year did it come to my attention how many people are truly effected by hearing loss in the music industry. After a recent group chat with friends who frequently go to gigs did it crop up we all have hearing problems – from tinnitus to slight hearing loss to perforations. After 18 years of attending gigs it should come as no surprise but when you’re young you feel invincible, you are led to believe earplugs will distort or soften the sound to an unenjoyable amount.
Sound Of Metal follows a punk-metal drummer dealing with hearing loss at a pinnacle time in their career and learning to deal with being deaf. Riz Ahmed stars as drummer Ruben whose portrayal of despair is a harrowing and anxiety inducing ride.
From the start you are pulled in by Riz’s powerful performance and the downward spiral that follows. Pit this along side its gritty feel and editing you find yourself pulled into the scenes, that you are also on this journey.
As the film follows Ruben’s denial with accepting hearing loss it is outstandingly executed by the sound editing, highlighting the small sounds we don’t appreciate in day to day life at the start to the ringing ears, the muffled hearing, that underwater feeling. The lack of subtitles until later on enhances that feeling of loneliness and helplessness.
Not to be missed is the accuracy of the small details from magazine features pinned on the wall of the RV to the hours spent travelling, the pre-show set up and the financial troubles. The film doesn’t shy away from drug abuse either.
Sound Of Metal also highlights the importance of inclusion, that being deaf shouldn’t be seen as a handicap. It covers the often sensitive topic with dignity.
It’s no wonder this film has been nominated and won multiple awards for best editing, best sound, best actor and more. It’s unique, hard-hitting and beautifully edited.
The movie is available to stream on Amazon Prime Video now.
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For further information about hearing problems visit:
British tinnitus association – https://www.tinnitus.org.uk/
Deaf Unity – https://deafunity.org/learn-british-sign-language-bsl/
Music instrument stores often stock earplugs for various scenarios and should be happy to give advice –
www.pmtonline.co.uk/blog/2019/10/18/best-ear-plugs-for-concerts-that-wont-destroy-the-vibe/
Recent articles from Kerrang! and the Telegraph also highlight how many rock stars are truly effected by hearing loss.
