The subject of Eckardt's Subject is another disturbing topic in today's news. For decades, the U.S. and others have experimented with questionable techniques to ensure maximum cooperation by detainees. This includes the use of light in flashes and sound in long, loud periods. These techniques were ultimately judged to be "inhuman and degrading" by the European Court of Human Rights. Eckardt considers their effects using a string quartet and lighting effects of his own design. Commissioned by Chamber Music America for the JACK Quartet, who gave the first performance in October, 2011. See a live performance by JACK Quartet on YouTube.