ThereItIsAgain (Live)

video upload by Downpoly

"Live music from the TRS-80 Model 4s, Orchestra-90 and MIDI/80. Using the S2 Wavetable card on the MIDI/80 to create some surreal backing tracks, complimented with the Orchestra-90 through some wild pedals.Live music from the TRS-80 Model 4s, Orchestra-90 and MIDI/80. Using the S2 Wavetable card on the MIDI/80 to create some surreal backing tracks, complimented with the Orchestra-90 through some wild pedals."

"The MIDI/80 Tracker program got much more feature-complete in recent weeks! By now, it not only allows sequencing of drum patterns, but of arbitrary monophonic MIDI instrument tracks (e.g., for bass, melodies, arpeggios etc.) With 6 tracks, it is polyphonic and multi-timbral, and can now support creation of entire songs. Whereas the first Tracker only offered one pattern, the new Tracker 1.95 can now manage up to 26 individual patterns, named 'A' to 'Z'. The workflow allows for pattern copying, i.e., to enable a musician to quickly make variations to a pattern simply by copying it and modifying bit and pieces. Moreover, each pattern has it's own settings, like tempo, number of bars, and on a per-track-basis, MIDI channel, MIDI instrument, and MIDI velocity. Like in a traditional arpeggiator, a GATE DURATION parameter determines the duration of the notes. Gate Duration can be configured on a per-track-per-pattern-basis as well. Most importantly, the new Tracker now features a "Song Mode" which allows for pattern chaining! A song can have up to 64 (pattern) entries - it is simply denoted as a string of pattern designators (like "ABBACAB*", where "*" means loop the song, and "." ends it). Moreover, real-time tracking is not only supported via the TRS-80 keyboard, but also over a MIDI keyboard connected to the MIDI DIN IN socket of the MIDI/80 card. MIDI notes can be quantized in realtime. MIDI/80 project member "DOWNPOLY" is now using this enhanced Tracker and the new Song Mode of the program to create much more complex backing tracks for his stunning Orchestra Sound Card Live Performances. The Orchestra Organ program by George Phillips is used as the solo / lead instrument, and MIDI/80 + Tracker is doing the background tracks.

As usual, the updated software can be found on the Github and can be downloaded free of charge: https://github.com/lambdamikel/MIDI-80"

ATerribleRide

video upload by Downpoly

"Another creation from the TRS-80s and MIDI80/Orchestra90. Taking it a little slower with this one, introducing a little more wah into the mix to give a spooky vibe. Did you ever take a ride you knew was a bad idea?

'ATerribleRide' takes you on a sonic journey through the interplay of vintage technology and modern production techniques. Created using TRS-80 Model 4 computers with Orchestra-90 and MIDI-80 accessories, the track emanates an organic electronic soundscape that's both intricate and evocative.

The song features rhythmic pulses reminiscent of classic chiptune music but evolves into a layered composition enriched with dynamic timbres and harmonic progressions. The lo-fi charm of the TRS-80 hardware is seamlessly intertwined with polished, modern effects, giving the track a unique balance of retro grit and contemporary clarity. Listeners will experience a haunting, almost cinematic narrative, where the analog textures of yesteryear meet the precision of today’s music gear. It’s a vivid, experimental piece that encapsulates innovation while paying homage to the pioneers of electronic sound.

As always, no electric guitars or basses were hurt during the making of this film haha! Just a bunch of TRS-80s sharing the light with some retro synth tunes! Check out the other videos if this is not your style, and thanks for watching!

Confused?
What is the TRS-80? http://www.trs-80.org/model-1/
What is the Orchestra-90? http://www.trs-80.org/orchestra-90/
What is MIDI80? https://hackaday.io/project/199232-mi...
Do you have a site? YES! https://2roommusic.com/downpoly"

See the TRS-80 label below for more.

YouJustHaveToKeepMoving

video upload by Downpoly

"Another creation from the land of TRS-80. Going in a more positive direction and a different touch. Getting a closer idea of what the TRS-Synth is going to sound like when it is finally created. I hope you enjoy this, as much as I do! Hoping it brings some positive vibes to your Friday."

Desperate (Mechanical Mix)

video upload by Downpoly

"The TRS-80 and MIDI/80 meet the Blofeld! Last of these types of videos for while as I integrate all the changes into the writing workflow and bring the organ back into play. The game has changed, I can now create some complicated parts and not lean so hard on the DAW. This synth has far more capable sounds than the S2 McFish, although I am still very fond of its sounds too.

This is just 2 TRS-80s, as described in the Video, the Model III drives the Blofeld via MIDI/80 # 1 (White LEDs) and the Model 4 drives the TD-6 (TR-909) (Blue LEDs). The Model III is 'synced' via a cable connecting both machines printer ports."

KeepLookingForYou

video upload by Downpoly

"Catching some moonbeams while I wrapped this one up. Taking it slower and a little more chill, I wanted to create something that might strike a nerve. I give you 'KeepLookingForYou', a mellow drop that lingers for something before, but cannot figure out. The latest in a slew of tracks being written for an independent release."

AllOverYou (Mechanical Mix)

video upload by Downpoly

"I don’t normally upload unfinished work but this will do, I love this sync option letting me split the music and percussion between machines. Here the Model III drives the music from the S2 McFish, while the Model 4P drives the TR-808 on the TD-6. No pre recording or loops here, just background to one of the latest tracks for the next album."

video upload by Downpoly

"Wait what? Did you TLDR? No worries- here is a mix. Get ready to turn it up and shake it to the latest creation from this throwback Microcomputer. Once again the BOSS DS-1 shares the limelight by adding a subsonic crunch to the S2 MIDI Drums, mixed with a matched low sine and you have this awesome groove. NO Ai used in the creation of this film, some computers WERE harmed lol. Crank it, shake it, enjoy."