Andrew Tasselmyer, a prolific musician from Hotel Neon and Gray Acres, joins the podcast to discuss the Elektron Octatrack MKII. Topics include innovative guitar modifications, voltage effects on audio equipment, and the creative potential of the Octatrack sampler. The conversation also touches on using equipment as expressive instruments, music tech releases, and even a lighthearted chat about ice cream preferences.
The Elektron Octatrack MKII offers extensive effects control and parameter locking for evolving sounds in live performances.
Users are challenged to creatively experiment with the device's complexity, inspiring new musical ideas through exploration and unexpected results.
Curating sounds for the Octatrack involves selecting samples for dynamic performance and utilizing its MIDI capabilities for comprehensive music creation experiences.
Deep dives
Overview of the Octatrack
The Octatrack is a dynamic performance sampler with eight tracks that offer multiple types of machines for sampling live input or playing from flashcards. It features extensive effects control and LFO modulation for sound manipulation. The device allows for parameter locking on each step of the sequencer, creating evolving sounds. The crossfader enables scene changes for dynamic performance transitions.
Live Performance Setup
In live performances, the Octatrack can be used to trigger pre-made sounds on one side while utilizing live-loopers and samplers on the other for real-time audio manipulation. The sequencer controls slicing and filter adjustments, with the ability to record and shape audio on specific steps. This enables on-the-fly sound creation and textured layering in performances.
Challenges and Inspirations
The instrument's complexity challenges users to think creatively and experiment with various parameters. Despite the learning curve, the Octatrack encourages exploration and unexpected results that can lead to new musical ideas. Its balance of setup configuration and real-time flexibility sparks continuous inspiration and exploration.
Sound Curation and MIDI Integration
Curating sounds for the Octatrack involves selecting a range of samples suited for dynamic performance and live manipulation. The device's MIDI capabilities expand its functionality by allowing MIDI sequencing and control, enabling integration with external sources for a comprehensive and interactive music creation experience.
Creative Sampling Techniques and Sound Generation
The podcast episode delves into creative sampling techniques and sound generation using the Octatrack as a tool for live performances and studio experimentation. The speaker emphasizes the use of direct sampling to capture and manipulate sounds in real-time, highlighting the versatility of the machine in generating unique audio textures. Examples like sampling the internal metronome sound to create elaborate drones showcase the innovative ways musicians utilize the Octatrack for sonic exploration and improvisation.
Intentional Music Composition and Ambient Soundscapes
The conversation shifts towards intentional music composition and the exploration of ambient soundscapes. The speaker discusses crafting music with deliberate placement of sounds, aiming for neoclassical elements and evolving arrangements within a digital audio workstation. The Octatrack is portrayed as an expressive instrument that encourages playful experimentation and structured musical development, bridging the gap between static ambient textures and dynamic, evolving compositions. The podcast highlights the balance between creative freedom and focused musical direction inherent in the speaker's approach to crafting sonic landscapes.
Today we're joined by Andrew Tasselmyer, prolific musician you may know from his solo work or as a member of Hotel Neon, Gray Acres, and Mordançage. Andrew and Andy have a long friendship, and Dan gets to meet Andrew for the first time. After some chat about technical difficulties and our favorite instrument mods, we get right into the Elektron Octatrack MKII, and Andy and Dan nod their heads along as if they understand half of what's being talked about. It's a deep dive on a deep device from the deep mind of Andrew Tasselmyer. Dig in!