Fox & Drum

Fox and Drum in the studio testing systems

Jon Drummond and Huw Jones. Juried Artists

Artist Statement

Fox & Drum’s electro-acoustic performance, enhanced by quadraphonic audio and visual synthesis, is an immersive journey into the convergence of sound and technology. Hailing from Newcastle, Australia, we blend modular synthesisers, acoustic instruments, and cutting-edge digital tools to craft a multidimensional sonic experience.

Our collaboration bridges the gap between art and science, weaving Jon Drummond’s expertise in sonification and data visualization with Huw Jones’s dynamic music production as Fox Control. Through quadraphonic sound, the spatial dynamics envelop audiences, creating an environment where music transcends traditional boundaries.

Visually, our performance integrates real-time visual synthesis, transforming sound frequencies into captivating imagery that evolves with the music. This synthesis not only enhances the auditory experience but also enriches the narrative of each composition.

Our exploration extends beyond mere performance; it’s an exploration of how technology can deepen emotional resonance and expand artistic expression. By pushing the boundaries of sonic and visual possibilities, we invite our audience to join us on a transformative sonic odyssey that challenges perceptions and inspires new connections between sound, art, and innovation.

About the artists

Fox & Drum, the dynamic electronic duo from Newcastle, Australia, blend modular synthesisers with acoustic and digital instruments to create symphonic experiences that captivate audiences worldwide.

At its core, Fox & Drum comprises Huw Jones (known as Fox Control), a sought-after music producer and musician, and Associate Professor Jon Drummond, whose pioneering research merges music with computing to enhance accessibility in scientific research. Drummond’s expertise in sound design, composition, and software engineering enables groundbreaking collaborations that unite arts and sciences, exploring the intersection of data representation through sound and digital mediums. His journey began at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music, evolving through a PhD in interactive electro-acoustics, sonification, and visualization.

Meanwhile, Huw Jones’s musical trajectory skyrocketed with Fox Control’s debut electronic hit, topping Australia’s iTunes charts in 2012. His accolades include multiple awards for ‘Excellence in Sound Design’ from his contributions to theatre productions. From art installations to producing mainstream and classical music, Huw’s diverse collaborations showcase his versatility and innovation in music production.

In 2020, Huw’s debut on Dutch record label Armada marked a milestone, while his remixes as Fox Control gained prominence on national broadcaster Triple J and Spotify playlists. His passion for music technology also led him to attain a postgraduate qualification in Creative Therapy from Charles Darwin University in 2023.

Together, Fox & Drum forge a distinct musical identity, merging artistry with scientific inquiry to push the boundaries of sonic exploration and redefine electronic music’s landscape.

Credits: Jon Drummond and Huw Jones

URL: Fox & Drum

ISEA2024 acknowledges the Turrbal and Yugara as the First Nations owners of the lands where the symposium will be held. We pay our respects to their elders, lores, customs and creation spirits. We also acknowledge and pay respects to all First Nations peoples across the continent and beyond Australian shores.