Cannabis and music have long been intertwined, with many enthusiasts swearing that their sonic experiences are deeply enhanced under the influence of marijuana. Recently, researchers in Toronto embarked on a detailed study to uncover exactly how cannabis impacts musical perception. Led by the team at Toronto Metropolitan University’s Science of Music, Auditory Research, and Technology Lab (SMART Lab), this research is unique in its approach, as it delves into live consumer interactions and the real-time effects of cannabis on music appreciation.
Scientific Curiosity Meets Casual Consumption
The SMART Lab’s previous research focused on retrospective accounts where participants recounted their past experiences with cannabis and music. However, this new project shifts gears by observing participants in real-time as they consume cannabis and engage with music at Club Lit, Canada’s only legally operating indoor cannabis consumption lounge. The researchers aim to capture genuine, unfiltered responses to see exactly what happens when these two beloved activities combine.
Chi Yhun Lo, a research associate at SMART Lab, emphasizes the importance of studying these effects in a natural setting rather than a sterile laboratory. He believes that environments like cafes, pubs, and lounges—where background music plays a consistent role—are more reflective of real-world scenarios where people typically enjoy music while high. By observing participants in such an authentic environment, the team hopes to gather data that truly represents natural human behavior.
Diverse Playlists and Varied Genres
At Club Lit, the playlists curated for the study span different musical genres, allowing researchers to evaluate whether cannabis alters listeners’ preferences. They are curious to know if being high makes users more open to exploring new types of music or if it enhances their enjoyment of their usual favorites. As Lo notes, the impact of cannabis on cognitive processing—including attentiveness, memory, and emotion—is critical to understanding these potential changes in musical taste and engagement.
This nuanced approach could reveal fascinating aspects about how our brains process auditory stimuli under the influence. It also opens up the possibility for discovering therapeutic uses of cannabis, especially for those who experience conditions like musical anhedonia, where individuals lose their ability to enjoy music.
The Significance of Absorption
One key aspect of the research involves understanding the concept of absorption. When high, individuals often report heightened attention to and deeper immersion in music. This intensified focus includes altered perceptions of time, increased emotional response, and a sense of embodiment where the listener feels physically connected to the music. Researchers believe that these factors play a pivotal role in why music sounds better when someone is under the influence of cannabis.
Darakjian, a co-researcher in the study, mentions that consumers might find themselves appreciating new genres they wouldn’t normally listen to, providing insights into how cannabis can expand one’s musical horizon. This phenomenon suggests that psychoactive listening could be particularly valuable for therapeutic settings, potentially aiding those with neurological conditions affecting sensory processing.
Real-World Implications and Future Directions
Though the current focus is on gathering primary data, the long-term goals of this research are promising. Establishing robust scientific grounding for how cannabis affects musical enjoyment could pave the way for therapeutic advancements. For instance, harnessing these insights might improve quality of life through enhanced emotional well-being or innovative treatments for auditory-related disorders.
For now, the immediate aim remains clear: to understand the real-time, direct impact of cannabis on musical absorption and enjoyment. By capturing the genuine reactions of participants at Club Lit, the researchers hope to demystify the age-old belief that music sounds better when you’re high and back it up with empirical evidence.
Community-Driven Research
Club Lit serves as a perfect venue for this groundbreaking study. Not only does it provide a legal and safe space for cannabis consumption, but it also fosters a sense of community among diverse groups of people who come together to share their experiences. Participants aren’t just subjects; they’re active contributors who help shape the outcomes of the research through their feedback.
This collaboration between the lounge and the SMART Lab demonstrates an innovative model of how recreational spaces can double as research hubs. Shefsky from Club Lit highlights the value of delivering an “authentic experience” for both consumers and researchers, ensuring that the findings represent true social dynamics rather than artificially controlled lab conditions.
A Stepping Stone Towards Discovery
The researchers remain excited about the untapped potential that lies ahead. According to Lo, studying neurodivergent listening patterns under the influence of cannabis could lead to significant breakthroughs. Although substantial therapeutic applications are not the primary focus at present, the foundational knowledge gained from this study will undoubtedly guide future inquiries and interventions.
The journey has just begun for the SMART Lab and Club Lit. Through meticulous observation and participant interaction, they aim to decode the intricate relationship between cannabis and music, offering us not only a deeper understanding but perhaps new ways to enhance our auditory experiences and overall wellbeing.