Unboxing The Nine Inch Nails “Physical Component” for Not The Actual Events

Photo Credit: Raymond Flotat

Back in December, Nine Inch Nails announced they would release a new EP, Not the Actual Events (as well as announcing Atticus Ross as an official member). The album was available for purchase in a wide variety of formats, including a one-sided 180 gram vinyl record. The other option was much more mysterious, billed as a “limited-edition digital release with a ‘physical component’ version.”

We have a copy of this under-described “physical component version” that accompanies a download of the record – hold onto your hats folks, it’s a wild one.

Unsurprising considering the music this product accompanied, the exterior of the physical competent is all black – but it is also wrapped in clear plastic and has a prominent warning label attached. The label reads:

“To be read IN ITS ENTIRETY before opening. Actions have consequences! N.T.A.E. may contain subersive elements that produce feelings of euphoria and may be harmful and unsettling to the consumer. Likewise, this physical package may lead to unrealized expectations or unexpected results upon opening. Caution should be exercised with both. AND THIS IS IMPORTANT… This will make a mess. By opening this envelope, in any way, you assume all risks to your person and/or property, and waive any an claim agains The Null Corporation, any of its subsidiaries or affilitated entities from any and all damanges or harm you may incur.”

Turns out the coal-black exterior of the envelop-like packaging that lies under the plastic wrap is literally a charcoal-like substance that gets all over the place, especially your fingers:

Within the envelope is a series of six beautifully-illustrated 10″ x 7″ postcards. Of course, they too are printed with the same charcoal substance, making even more of a mess. Atop the cards is a clear plastic projector print-out. The cards include print-outs of the album’s credits as well as the lyrics from the songs.

Those that purchase this package received an MP3 download of the album on its release date, which was December 22, 2016. The physical component only includes these pieces of visual art, there is no physical music included with this package whatsoever.

All Photos By Raymond Flotat