"Julian Pollack/J3PO is a pianist, keyboardist, and producer. Described by Timeout New York as a musician who “deftly balances virtuosity with tenderness,” Julian is an in-demand sideman as well a leader of his own projects. When he was 18 years old, having just moved to New York City from his native California hometown of Berkeley, he was featured on Piano Jazz, hosted by Marianne McPartland, the syndicated NPR radio program. Professionally, Julian has recorded and performed with the likes of Marcus Miller, Michael League (Snarky Puppy), Louis Cato (The Tonight Show), David Binney, The Lesson GK, Matt Chamberlain, Tim LeFebrve, Mike “Maz” Maher (Snarky Puppy), Grace Kelly, Ari Hoenig, Chris Bullock (Snarky Puppy), Nir Felder, Gil Goldstein (Esperanza Spalding), Chase Baird (Antonio Sanchez), Amanda Brown (Adele), Evan “EMAR” Marien, Grace Weber, and many others. He has played an integral role in the band The Lesson GK, which has held the famed “Lesson” Jam Session at Arelene’s Grocery on the Lower East Side of New York every Thursday night for many years. In 2019, Julian (as J3PO) will release his new album Small Plates, a collection of 12 tracks that range from simple lo-fi beats to complex jazztronica future house joints. Inspired by analog synths and sample-based music, the album fuses Julian’s love for today’s contemporary production styles with a nod to the jazz tradition and the spontaneity of live music and improvisation. Julian lives in Los Angeles, California.
We chatted with Julian on how he’s using Sequential’s instruments in his music."
"Warp Records celebrate their 30th anniversary with three-day NTS Radio takeover, including exclusive mixes and giveaways.
For the past 30 years, UK based label Warp Records have been consistently setting the bar in the electronic music world, always pushing the boundaries of the genre and thrilling music fans worldwide.
Founded by Steve Beckett and Rob Mitchell in the back of a record store in Sheffield in 1989, Warp has become the pioneer of its genre with a unique yet reliable catalogue of electronic music. Responsible for bringing to the world the likes of Aphex Twin, Boards of Canada, Squarepusher and Nightmares on Wax, plus loads more, Warp have also more recently ventured into film, art installations and their own online independent record store, Bleep.com.
This weekend, Warp are set to celebrate their 30th anniversary. Partnering with NTS, they’ll bring together their legendary roster with a packed out 100-hour schedule of music, including exclusive mixes, tributes and giveaways.
As part of the celebrations and in honour of the release of our recent Bass Station AFX update, listeners will have the chance to get their hands on a very limited edition Warp Records x Aphex Twin x Novation Bass Station II, 1 of only 5 made. For a chance to win, simply sign up for the WXAXRXP mailing list following the link below [bottom of page here].
We’ve also compiled a selection of our favourite Warp releases spanning the past thirty years. With so many releases, we could have kept this list going on for ages, but here are ten particular highlights from the past three decades chosen by some of the team over at Novation HQ:
"**PLEASE NOTE** Text used on screen in the video is from the Novation Peak page (link below). But as the products share the technology you can apply those things to the features and design of Summit. https://novationmusic.com/peak-explained
Summit is more than two Peaks thrown together. We can think of the Summit as two Peaks in that it's 16 voices (rather than 8) and it can also be split/layered and multi timbral which opens a huge range of power for sound design and performance. Summit (with more real estate thanks to the 61 note keyboard) breaks out more controls such as FM for the oscillators, loop switching for the envelopes and more. I was impressed with Peak and I'm impressed with Summit too.
In the video I chat briefly to Danny who designed the Summit, Nick about the engineering and working with Chris Huggett (designer of the OSCar and Wasp synths) and Chris Calc runs us through the synth. I also have patches from the launch day event cut into the video. So you'll get some background, a product overview and plenty of sounds too.
"Ensoniq is one of my favorite synths makers.
The Ts series are an incredible powerful machines.
I recorded some of the sound and probably I will do a second part with more of them.
Enjoy it!"
"Whether you're just becoming interested in modular synths or an experienced veteran the new book by Kim Bjørn and Chris Meyer, Patch & Tweak, is an interesting read! We interview Kim at Elevator Sounds in Bristol, UK about the making of this unique book."
Chris Martirano demonstrates the Studiologic Numa Compact 2X at Kraft Music.
The Studiologic Numa Compact 2 delivers powerful technology and controller capabilities in a lightweight, portable package with 88 semi-weighted keys. A wide variety of sounds, including acoustic and electric pianos, organs, synths, orchestral voices, and drum kits, are augmented by dual effects processors, string resonance, and stereo reverb. Ideal for stage and studio, built-in speakers make the Numa Compact 2 an excellent choice for the home as well.
Numa Compact 2x adds tone wheel organ and synth sections, with nine drawbar/slider controls for real-time, hands-on manipulation of organ and synth tones in addition to dedicated organ modulation and percussion effects buttons.
Get more for your money with exclusive Studiologic Numa Compact 2 and Numa Compact 2x bundles from Kraft Music. These package deals include the accessories you'll need to get the most out of your new stage keyboard, all for one low price. If you have any questions, please give us a call. Our knowledgeable Sales Advisors will be happy to assist in choosing the bundle that's right for you!"
"A short film about our connection to living and breathing synthesizers.
Synthesize is a fictional story about a Ukrainian musician who travels to Canada to meet the one repairman she believes can resurrect her beloved father’s synthesizer, a Polivoks. This film is written for and created by synth lovers, featuring Jay Lemak (Toronto's top synth repairman) and a soundtrack made with 98% analog synthesizers.
Written & Directed by Matthew Edison
Produced by Natalie Novak, Chris DePaul, Miles DePaul
Soundtrack by Peter Chapman
Featuring Jay Lemak & Lena Burmenko"
"Oscillator Culture - The Story of the Polysynth explores the passions, obsessions and dreams of people who have dedicated part of their lives to this esoteric electronic music machine. Inventors, musicians, and enthusiasts take a moment to reflect on their often complex relationship with the polysynth – for many, it's an all-consuming passion.
In this documentary, we hear from Ben Rossborough (Cyberwave EMS), Nick Batt (Sonic State) and Finlay Shakespeare (Future Sound Systems). Novation's Synth aficionados, Chris Calcutt, Danny Nugent, Nick Bookman and Jerome Meunier, who were entrenched in the development of Peak while this documentary was being made, offer their perspectives on the scene.
"Legendary EDP Wasp and even more rare the Spider Sequencer by Chris Huggett, quirky looking toy like synth but a serious piece of kit, capable of rip roaring synth lines, fat bass...just straight up dirty with so much character. Great for all types of Electronic music.
These were recently serviced by Synthrestore in Jul'18 and is studio ready.
As expected there are some minor casing cracks on the "Wasp" on three corners of the synth but nothing crazy, and the battery cover is missing.
The Spider sequencer is clean with very minor wear and tear. The Spider is a 256-note step, or 84-note real time digital sequencer to control the Wasp and/or Gnat. It features a few simple controls for entering notes in step or real time and transposing the sequence a semi-tone, whole-tone, major-3rd, or perfect-5th as well as speed controls. Although it has EDP's own pre-MIDI interface for connecting it to other EDP gear, it also had CV/Gate outputs for connecting it to other analog synths to.a
Both units have been thoroughly tested prior to listing and is studio ready for use.
What you get:
EDP Wasp Synth
EDP Spider Sequencer
2x Power Adapters (non-original good quality)
1 x Din Link Cable
Manuals, schematics and patch sheets (Non-orginal)"
"Superb Mk2 AKS for sale in excellent working order and superb condition. This Synthi sounds and plays very well indeed - it's an inspiring, living instrument that rewards the user and encourages experimentation. It is a world away from sterile modern and soft synths: this beast takes you on unexpected musical journeys and is a sound designer's delight.
In excellent working order following a thorough overhaul and servicing. The keyboard cover was missing, so our synth tech Chris made a clear perspex cover for it, which looks stunning. This could be changed to a black finish if the buyer prefers. There are of course some dings, minor dents and scratches to the synth, but overall it's in very good condition.
While a good deal of work has been done to ensure it's as it should be, this is a vintage Synthi and some occasional foibles are to be expected. We take the view that servicing on these units should be sympathetic - recapping where necessary, but also keeping as many original parts in the audio path to retain character, even if it results in occasional minor flaws. A little noise is possible from some pots when it's not been used for a while, but this clears with use.
The patch matrix and pins have been thoroughly cleaned, but we did find one pin during testing yesterday that was intermittent, so can supply with new EMS replacements if preferred."
"There's a lot of great Granular synthesizers for iOS on the AppStore and it can be hard to choose which one to buy. I've received a decent amount of questions about this over the years and lately the apps asked about have been Tardigrain vs Borderlands Granular. With the release of SpaceCraft granular the same type of questions popped up, SpaceCraft vs Tardigrain etc. Now there are more really good granular synths available other than these three, but so far ( yeah so far because i might have to do a new comparison once Quanta by Audio Damage comes out ) these three are my absolute favorite ones. They all have strengths and they all have weaknesses. So which one should you get? Check out my breakdown and comparison and find out!"
Soundmit exclusive, for the first time in Italy the famous no-compromise analog eight-voice polyphonic Schmidt-Synthesizer!
After selling more than 50 units of this exclusive instrument and just starting the production of the third batch of 25 new ones, german manufacturer e:m:c will show the Schmidt-Synthesizer for the first time at Soundmit - International Sound Summit in Torino, 3-4 November 2018.
"We are very excited to show the Schmidt at Soundmit in Italy" says Product Manager Axel Fischer. "Italy is one of the leading countries in electronic music and has a long history of very successful electronic instruments. We are looking forward in meeting the Italian synthesizer scene on location."
Schmidt, one of the most coveted modern analog synthesizers, comes to Italy with his eight-voice polyphony with unison and true multitimbrality mode.
Full MIDI implementation with a USB port and complete programmability. The signal path is fully analog with precise digital control. Schmidt´s sound generation engine features virtually everything that subtractive synthesis is endowed with – and even more: Schmidt gives you truly unique features that have never been implemented in an analog synthesizer before, not to speak of polyphonic units! Think of Multi-PWM and Multi-Ring Modulation.
Every single parameter – even for the most complex modulation routings you might envisage – can be accessed directly using dedicated front panel controls and switches. No more browsing through mind-boggling and confusing menus.
Thanks to programmable high-quality real-time controls (pitch and modulation wheel, stick controller, and aftertouch, as well as several inputs for footswitches and expression pedals), Schmidt has become a real performance synthesizer that feels as good as it sounds.
Schmidt is made to match the highest production standards – it has entirely been hand-crafted in Germany. The casing, made of metal and carefully selected wood, keeping a close eye on environmental sustainability, is as beautiful as it is sturdy and robust.
And we can admire it in November at the Soundmit 2018!"
"The new book about modular synths, their makers, and masters. Patching secrets, performance tips, history, modules, and techniques.
'Hello!
My name is Kim Bjørn – welcome to the PATCH & TWEAK Kickstarter campaign! Following our book PUSH TURN MOVE about electronic music instruments - we are now creating a book on modular synthesis.
We want PATCH & TWEAK to provide an opportunity for new and experienced users to become true masters of their modular systems. In the style of its predecessor, PATCH & TWEAK contains inspirational interviews with significant creators and major artists who all share their passion for modular. Explore their systems, philosophies, patching secrets, and performance tips.
Besides a comprehensive introduction to synthesis and its history, the book covers systematic sections on concepts, purpose and creative possibilities of specific modules. Enjoy colorful diagrams, presentations of both popular and rare modules, semi-modular and software, as well as techniques for patching and how to get started.
PATCH & TWEAK has a foreword by Suzanne Ciani, is written by Kim Bjørn and Chris Meyer, and edited by Paul Nagle.
So what exactly is PATCH & TWEAK? Watch the video, take the tour below, and please support the book by selecting a reward if you like the idea.'
Kim Bjørn, Copenhagen, May 2018
About the book
Meet the makers, and artists
Apart from systematic sections and general subjects PATCH & TWEAK features interviews with the passionate makers of modules and systems, and the artists who use them, and influence them. We have already started interviewing - and when more artists are confirmed, we will keep you updated!
Instead of the more popular FM synthesis, CZ-1 uses PD (Phase Distortion) synthesis to create sounds.
While it doesn't sound exactly like an FM Synth, it can get to same region and beyond. CZ-1 shines on bright metallic and bell sounds. It also does pretty good string , brass and pad sounds, especially when two sounds are layered in split mode.
CZ-1 has 16 voice polyphony with 2 "oscillators" per voice and also ability to split the keyboard, so that the upper and lower parts play their own sounds. User interface is MUCH more user-friendly when compared to many of the legendary FM synths. Almost all functions have dedicated buttons and sound editing follows the traditional subtractive architecture. CZ-1 has 64 presets and 64 user patches, there is also a possibility to use external memory cartridge to expand the memory to 128 user patches. CZ-1 also has pretty good midi implementation and is multitimbral.
Demo song : Lost Patrol Theme, originally composed by Chris Glaister
"some notes / refs for my talk at unsound adelaide 2017 on how to get into modular synthesis without going broke in the process. there's obviously a strong emphasis on cheap / diy / open source as an entry point to modular.."
"Dave Burraston is an Australian experimental musician, who has worked with a diverse range of artists from Chris Watson to Aphex Twin via Oren Ambarchi. A self-confessed gearhead, among his many accomplishments is the publication of SYROBONKERS!, the most technical interview ever given by Aphex Twin. Today he discusses how to get into modular synthesis - with a particular emphasis on not going broke!"
"Chris -Calc- Calcutt, shows us how easy it is to hook up the Circuit to other hardware synths and, if that wasn’t enough, he shows how to build up chords in the Circuit as well!"
The following are live performances in order for Lightbath's "Synth's in the Catskills" event. Lightbath's performance is last.
Buchla Music Easel Live in the Catskills
August 26, 2017 Published on Oct 24, 2017 sean julian
"A short live set on the BEMI music easel using a looper and delay pedal."
Synths in the Catskills
Published on Oct 24, 2017 Chris Penalosa
"Full set at the Beehouse with heavy use of the Field Kit's electroacoustic sounds and Landscape FM's AllFlesh into Rings string modeling. Part of Lightbath's Synth's in the Catskills event."
Emily A. Sprague - Live at Synths in the Catskills ~ Eurorack Ambient
Published on Oct 24, 2017 Emily Sprague
"This is my live set from August 26, 2017 at Synths in the Catskills."
"MASCHINE Mk3 and KOMPLETE KONTROL Mk2 S49 / S61 now available to pre-order
September 7, 2017 – Native Instruments today announces the next generation of MASCHINE and KOMPLETE KONTROL hardware. Unified by an all-new industrial design, both units have been re-engineered to inspire and enable nonstop creativity, boasting more intuitive workflows, optimized layouts, vivid visual feedback, and deeper studio integration.
MASCHINE Mk3 delivers the best ever workflow for quickly sketching and capturing ideas. It adds two high-resolution color screens for easier sound browsing, editing, sample-slicing, and more. The new hardware also features more dedicated function buttons and larger, more responsive pads that retain the same ergonomic layout users know and love. For enhanced convenience and portability, MASCHINE now features a built-in 96kHz / 24-bit audio interface.
KOMPLETE KONTROL Mk2 extends the original keyboard’s workflow with 17 additional function buttons and two high-resolution color screens for browsing, previewing sounds, and more. And now – thanks to enhanced DAW and MASCHINE integration – it’s possible to mix, navigate, and edit projects directly from the hardware. The professional-grade Fatar keybeds and unique Light Guide are joined by new pitch and mod wheels, plus a horizontal touch strip for additional expression.
“We’ve learned from artists and our users that the biggest challenge in creative work isn’t one of getting started, but of keeping going,” explains MASCHINE Product Owner Chris La Pietra. “We developed these new products in tandem to address this problem: Beyond sparking inspiration, they fuel the whole creative process – they help users get in the zone and stay there. They feel great, they integrate with existing setups, and they make music production as fun, intuitive, and hands-on as possible.”
“We set the benchmark for integrated music production software and hardware some years ago, and these latest products signify a major new milestone in our journey,” explains Mate Galic, CTO and President of Native Instruments.
“Holistic, tactile experiences and optimized layouts showcase the most powerful features in a completely intuitive way and support a sustained creative workflow. Sophisticated integration, with an ever-expanding software ecosystem of KOMPLETE, MASCHINE, and NKS plug-ins, make these the most advanced music production hardware units available today.”
Pricing and availability
The new MASCHINE, KOMPLETE KONTROL S49, and KOMPLETE KONTROL S61 will be available at the NI Online Shop and retailers from October 5, 2017. All three units will be available to pre-order from September 7 at the NI Online Shop. Pricing remains the same as the previous versions in all markets.
About MASCHINE Mk3
The next generation of MASCHINE hardware lets you effortlessly produce beats, melodies, and harmonies with powerful drum synths, premium sounds, an integrated sampler, and more – cutting-edge software meets intuitive hardware for an ultra-smooth workflow.
Key features
• Integrated hardware/software system includes sampler, arranger, mixer, FX, and more
• 8 GB MASCHINE library with samples, one-shots, sliced loops, sampled instruments, presets, patterns, drum kits, and songs
• Includes 25 GB KOMPLETE 11 SELECT library
• 25 pro-quality studio and creative FX including filter, EQ, delay, reverb, and compressor
• 2 high-resolution RGB color displays for precision sample slicing, sound tweaking, note editing, mixing, browsing, and more
• 16 large, ultra-sensitive pads make two-handed drumming easy
• Pro-grade, 96kHz / 24-bit audio interface with 2 x ¼” TRS line outputs, 2 x ¼” TRS line inputs, ¼” dynamic mic input, stereo headphone output, 1 x MIDI In, 1 x MIDI out, and 1 x Footswitch
• Touch sensitive knobs for parameter tweaking
• Smart Strip for strumming notes, pitch bending sounds, performing with FX, and more
• Four-directional push encoder for browsing, navigating, and adjusting levels and balance
• Powered via USB 2.0 or with the included power supply unit
• Seamless integration with KOMPLETE
• Classic groovebox features including 16 velocity levels, swing, pad link, note repeat, step sequencer, and vintage MPC 60/SP-1200 sampling emulation
• Compatible with all major DAWs (including Ableton Live, Logic Pro, and FL Studio) as a VST or Audio Units plug-in, with full multi-core support
About KOMPLETE KONTROL Mk2
With the latest generation of KOMPLETE KONTROL hardware, music-making becomes a more intuitive, hands-on experience. Perform expressively, browse and preview sounds, tweak parameters, sketch your ideas, and navigate and mix your project – all from one fully integrated centerpiece for studio and stage.
Key features
• Smart keyboard controller for all your virtual instruments
• Pro-grade Fatar keybeds with aftertouch – 49 or 61 semi-weighted keys
• Ergonomic pitch and mod wheels, plus touch strip for expression control
• Pre-mapped control of KOMPLETE instruments and hundreds of Native Kontrol Standard (NKS) instruments from leading manufacturers
• Full VSTi support
• Tag-based preset browsing: Find sounds quickly and hear instant previews
• Two high-res color screens for browsing, tweaking, mixing, and more
• Light Guide: RGB lights above each key highlight drum cells, key switches, chords, scales, and more
• Smart Play: See scales and modes on the Light Guide, play chord progressions and arpeggios with single keys, or map any scale to white keys only
• Deep integration with MASCHINE software / hardware
• Intuitive control over Logic Pro X, Ableton Live, and GarageBand. Cubase and Nuendo integration coming soon after initial release
• 4-directional push encoder for one-handed sound browsing and project navigation
• Two assignable pedal inputs
• MIDI in / out
• USB 2.0 bus powered
• Includes KOMPLETE 11 SELECT "
