In Sheffield, freezers are humming like an electronic orchestra – and Reddit is going crazy. The “Co-op Freezer Symphony” is now available on YouTube.
An unusual sound in a supermarket in Sheffield is currently causing a worldwide stir on social media. The quiet but harmonious hums and hums in the freezer section of the Co-op store on Ecclesall Road sound so soothing and musical to some people that they have been described as an “ambient drone”. There is now even a ten-hour YouTube loop of the “Co-op Freezer Symphony”.
From Reddit find to viral hit
It all started when one person on Sheffield’s local Reddit forum remarked that the sounds of the freezers sounded exceptionally pleasant: “I swear the freezers here sound like a gentle electronic orchestra.” Others agreed, describing the sounds as an “electric gong bath” or an “ambient-like meditation.” Videos from people on the ground spread quickly, attracting music fans and sound enthusiasts around the world. Some even analyzed what chord might be hidden in the hum – apparently C#.
Ten hours of relaxation from the supermarket
The viral hype inspired someone to turn the sounds into a 10-hour YouTube loop. Listeners report that the sound is surprisingly calming and is perfect for concentration, meditation or simply as background noise. Comments range from “I could listen for hours” to “My new ASMR companion while working.” Listen here:
Who hears, sees or feels what?
Reactions are mixed: some say they hear harmonies that remind them of Brian Eno, others simply say, “That’s just the sound of engines.” Nevertheless, Reddit users and music technologists are discussing frequencies, overtones and possible musical structures – making the phenomenon even more intense. Some post humorous memes like “The Co-op Freezer Tour – world tour next year?”
A spokesman for the Co-op branch told the Guardian newspaper that he was amused by the unexpected interest: “We cannot confirm whether the freezers are currently rehearsing for their next orchestral concert, but it is good to hear that our customers are enjoying the freezer section in the Co-op branch on Ecclesall Road.”
