Behind the Sound of Désordres Extraordinaires: Crafting a War Story Podcast

In June 2021, I had the opportunity to work on Désordres Extraordinaires, a podcast series produced by Binge Audio. This project was a collaboration with independent journalist Sophie Nivelle-Cardinale, whose work covering the Syrian conflict since 2011 has earned her widespread recognition, including the prestigious Albert-Londres Prize. The series dives deep into ten years of her war reportage, bringing listeners into the heart of a conflict that has shaped the modern Middle East.

The Challenge

One of the most critical tasks on this project was navigating the rich audio material Sophie had gathered over the years. From her field recordings in war-torn Syria to her interviews and reports, the aim was to create a soundscape that could match the intensity and depth of her storytelling. My job was not only to edit but to find the right ambiances and sonic textures to immerse the listener in her experiences.

A Close Collaboration with the Journalist

Working closely with Sophie meant understanding her vision and the emotional weight behind her stories. I sifted through hours of raw footage and recordings, selecting moments that captured the atmosphere of war, the tension in the air, and the quiet moments in between. The sound design was carefully crafted to enhance these narratives, not overpower them.

Another key element was the musical direction of the podcast. Collaborating with the production team, we aimed to create a musical identity that resonated with the gravity of the subject while maintaining the subtlety required for such a delicate topic. Music had to flow naturally with the storytelling, enhancing the emotional impact without distracting from the narrative.

A Rewarding Outcome

Désordres Extraordinaires was widely praised by the press, with outlets like Le Monde and Télérama covering its release. The series became a vital piece of journalism, not just for its content but for the way it conveyed the realities of war through sound. It was a privilege to contribute to such an impactful project, pushing the boundaries of podcast production and storytelling through sound.