This sound implements an algorithmic composition technique based on simulated annealing.  Simulated annealing belongs to a class of probabilistic  algorithms where large search spaces can be explored using a generate and test approach, and an optimal solution is not required.  In a musical context, the initial state is an arbitrary set of pitches.  These pitches are tested according to a criterion, such as relative consonance, then microtonally perturbed and re-tested according to this same criterion.  This process continues until a goal state or some arbitrary practical limit is reached.  Thus, the resulting music is an emergent property of the search process.  Unlike optimization problems where the goal is a solution, algorithmic composition using simulated annealing is all about the journey and not the destination.

-- JohnMantegna - 01 Oct 2012