How to prepare a live electro gig Pt.2 (SELECT YOUR SYNTH)
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 18 ก.ค. 2018
- I'll be making a series of videos about what I'll be going through to create a whole new set for a gig in late august. In this second episode I'm going through the different synths that I have, and trying to feel which one makes sense to bring to a gig.
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The Korg Volca FM really looked sad once the Digitone slid into frame.
That sequence on the Volca FM is gold! :D
Haha thanks. I wish the Volca had a much bigger sequence memory, so that you could plan ahead a bit. It gets full in no-time.
the small metroid intro instantly got my ears and heart
I really love how you focus on the creative aspects of electronic music. You show off your enjoyment of music itself, where the synths are really just different tools to get there.
Would be awesome to see you rehearse for your upcoming gig.. it’s refreshing to hear how artists prepare their gigs. I am having trouble even conceiving such a setup because I don’t have enough hands to operate everything at the same time. For example how can one play a transition with 3 pads, 2 FX samples, a new lead synth, and beat fills.. I see no other choice than to prepare backing tracks but of course everything becomes so stale, like you said.. well, looking forward to watching your upcoming episodes of this mini series! And good luck and success for your gig!
This is very good insight into the process of picking components for you live set. Really shows your mindset and how each musical part fits together for you.
Love your thought process, this is such a great series, cheers Cuckoo!
Deep source of inspiration you are.
this is probably one of the best videos Cuckoo has done- love the insight into how he puts sets together for live performances.
Been anticipating for this series, really helpful, don't think I've seen anyone going thru the thoughts on the preparing before, wicked.
I think this might be my favourite of all your videos because it showed your thought process. It helped me to focus and sketch out what I was trying to accomplish. Thank you! :)
When you take notes, I take notes, thank you for the inspiration and ideas!
❤️📝
I love the smile some of these give you (especially the OP-Z!)
Can't help it :) Then it must be right!
Thanks for your video Cuckoo ! Just starting to make music, only got one PO-20 Arcade, and seeing so much gears is really dangerous for my bank account ahah ! Love your work and your smile, so good to see someone enjoying as much, keep going man !
you have the sweetest collection of machines, thanks for doing this series. I'm preparing for my first electro set in august and its a little daunting. So thank you for the help!
This is just the kind of video I like. Thanks for posting!
Thanks for sharing your process with us, I really enjoy your content.
Your Volca FM tutorial got me started down this rabbit hole, and a year later I'm now enjoying making my own content and sounds.
Thanks again for doing what you do, and providing inspiration.
So many options, not enough time... great demos! You show why it is so important to really know your gear.
OMG !! That Metroid intro on the monomachine at 31:00 was awesome :D I want more of that :3
so happy you made this series!
We got the same orange and yellow leads happening and this makes me so happy!
Love this series already.
It’s so interesting just to watch how you are JUST preparing for gig hah. Thanks for new video! 👍
I need an OP-Z!! You rock! Thanks for your vids mate!
Thanks a lot for sharing so much about your process and workflow!
Great video. I find it's always good to learn from how other people approach a challenge like this. It doesn't matter if we have different gear or different musical styles, the decisions are similar.
Great stuff Cuckoo! OP-Z is something I've been patiently awaiting. Putting together with my Korg monologue, volca sample and just acquired po33 K.O! I'm all about portable fun jams!! Cheers and good luck friend!
Thanks for the great video! I learned a lot and it was awesome hearing you jam out on so many fun machines.
Thank you Ed!
Same mason is awesome and good choices so many too choose from. Keep going man, and luv that op1 jam. Thx
so inspiring. thank you for the mason self tipp he rocks!
I love this. It's like watching Bob Ross. I always feel so happy :D Plus it's helpful to what I'm doing.
This is great! Looking forward to more!!!
Great video cuckoo! Nice to see someone else’s approach to preparing for a live show. I’m looking forward to the next video. It always seems overwhelming at first, then once I decide what gear to use it all comes together nicely! I love the stickers on the Digitakt too! Nice touch🙂
Was most impressed with the Monomachine, did not see that coming!
Great Episode! Looking forward to more!! 🤗😁👊
Nice to see the circuit getting a little love 👍
Thank you Cuckoo !! I love you
❤️
Great vid. I don't have half as much gear as you but I still enjoy your process of selection.
Great job on whole episode. Elektrons n' Ciri are really capable of soundscaping almost everyhting. Id also mention Synthstrom Audible - deluge ive sold while ago - itd be good seq for someone new into it or someone who needs 16x channel sequencer for their synths. Its amazing for what IT does (almost nfnite pattern lengths😍). If youre not needy for so many MIDI ch - id deffineatly pick Digitone myself :) 4xchannels and great multitimbral synth engine. A4 is sick also & them both are insane combo. Cheapest and most wise for someone who starts would be Ciri i guess for its price and huuuuuge huge sound. Peace!
Just found your videos and I really enjoy watching your stuff! :)
Great video and great to see the TenoriOn - my go-to device. I think you missed out that each layer sends out messages on a different midi channel.. so if you don't like the inbuilt sounds it's not a problem..you can control your favorite devices with it. Also you can add 48 short samples in 3 blocks...Limited compared to other devices, but still useful for 3 custom drumkits with 16 sounds in each. (or 6 kits with 8 sounds). Each layer can go at it's own pace and loop after between 1-to-16 steps. You can do wild stuff with it. If you're happy with the inbuilt sounds there are ways to control it externally too. Brilliant instrument.
It's taken 2 days for me to watch the whole of the video without distractions. It's really cool to see your method/how you mind works.
Thanks for sticking around for two days ❤️ and for your encouraging words! I appreciate it.
That riff/sound on the monomachine at about 31:10!!!! Love that warble
That Toejam and Earl track, love it!
YES! When people share the same references, you know that you're in good company ❤️ Thanks :D
a while back I made an OP-1 drum kit out of Casio Rapman samples, instant TJ&E vibes: www.dropbox.com/s/8lpujifq6pofv61/Rapman-140bpm.aif.zip?dl=0 :)
Hahaha! I love that you had no doubt about bringing the OP 1
I am afraid that is uncouth to share a link in your thread, but I am not sure how else to send you this as am am not entirely tech savvy. I bought an OP 1 recently and started following you shortly after. Consider me a fan. If you have a moment, I would love it if you would give my music a listen. Otherwise, I look forward to this series and whatever else your TH-cam future holds. Thank you for doing what you are doing
soundcloud.com/bboyeducator/sets/headphones-and-heartache
Great stuff
So much knowledge here. Thank you greatly :)
I love how excited you get when pulling out and playing with the Circuit. It's like you're pulling it out of its original box for the first time!
That Monomachine is pretty rad too. Never heard of that piece. A little bummed its cost is so high, but it seems warranted, nonetheless.
Epic!!!!
Thank you, Giant!
The best voice paired with the fanciest grooves! :)
Great video, one of your best
I sooo agree about limits. It's the only way I'm able to create any stuff.
Always have a backup plan B machine. I had a live set fail when I could not get my Octatrack working right with the club PA mixer system. Fortunately I brought my other gear as backup. Also I think it helps to squeeze the most out of as few synths as possible.
When you talked about form and progression I immediately thought of a DJ Qbert album. He's a master at doing that!
Thanks cuckoo! Love your videos and your work! Really helpful to have your references :)
Thanks Javier! It helps a lot with uplifting comments such as yours! Thank you!
cuckoomusic you can not imagine how important it is to have thought leaders like you😊 to solve so many questions before making a decision of choosing the right gear! Keep rocking because we will keep supporting your wisdom!
I wasn't a subscriber UNTIL NOW... more videos like this please, thank you!
Thank you!! Yeah, more coming! Promise!
Thanks for another fun video Cuckoo :)
Monomachine + OP-Z gets my vote = Digital Pop Magnificence
The beats you made on the MnM have a very nice modern texture, the sound of the MnM really complement the complexity, fun-ness & elasticity of the beats you make.
i know all your machines very well (and have 90% including the rare metallic tenorion) its funny, i sell the MM because after the blacks, i can't do it without probabilities and microtiming, but hearing your music on the SFX60 made me smile too, its got an own sound, and you really tackle it with the music you made on, really.
21:57 Is my favorite part of the video. This vid is really nice but so frustrating ! I want so much all these gears. Let's buy some. Thanks for advices, keep playing Cuckoo San.
Good format I like to see what will be your final setup for your live gig and how you prepare it.
I just had to do this and made a giant midi map on a piece of paper, and then a map of all the audio connections. I feel like a lot of what I picked was just from familiarity. I got an Sh-01a because it had a similar structure to the Microbrute (my first synth), and a Tr-08 because it reminded me a lot of the first drum machine I used (Volca Beats which is based on the 808 mostly). ended up with a reface cs controlling the tempo of everything but not the notes via midi, and then tr-08, microgranny, bastl kastle, sh-01a, 0-coast, and a microbrute!
Great video Cuckoo, I think this will help many people to build an useful setup with what they have :) And the Tenori-on is so cool! I've never seen one before, it looks very fun to use! It's a shame that you can't access the synth engine though
You have such a unique melodic style. You really sound like no one else I know. If that were the only legacy you left, you'd have made an impact but your knowledge and creativity take it to the next level.
I'm enjoying this series so far. I've been smiling as I watch this video because we have a lot of the same gear or at least similar and I've been through the same kind of mental exercise in testing and taking notes to design my live rigs.
I find it interesting how heavily the on board sequencer of each is weighing in your review of each device. To me, it seems you could choose a single device with a sequencer that you liked a lot and use it to drive a few outboard devices. For example: The Digitakt at the center of maybe 2-3 peripheral devices would be mighty powerful. A4, Digitakt, Volca FM and the OP-Z would be enough to do 100 albums/shows. Just my .02 cents though. You do you. It seems to serve you well. :)
Cool video! Thanks :)
Onomachine is my all time favorite synth. Deeper than the ocean.
"*I will fail at this" Ha! I laughed both times it came up. 17:39
Oh enjoying this mate. I need to do this as well, gonna do some nerdy list making too. One thing I’ve thought about recently is whether to use the iPad for performing, only because I take it travelling anyway. I normally sample it and use for sound design, but maybe there’s some nice things to add to the setup there?
thanks dude nice video
Glad to see the Monomachine make an appearance, and was always surprised you didn't gravitate towards it as much as you did some of the other Elektron stuff - it just seems you can get lost endlessly in sound design because you're almost forced to because of how it's designed (don't forget the six channels of MIDI out). I've written all my songs with it since its purchase, and picked up an Octatrack to accompany it for percussion and mixing. It feels like its the most complete for my needs. I'll add the caveat that I'm not a live player. I also haven't owned a lot of synths. But I wouldn't hesitate swapping out my OT for a second Monomachine :D Don't forget to include a pocket operator or two for interstitials!
I'm a big fan of limits. When I forced myself to use a single VST I made my best work. Same thing when I sold all my synths to get the Monomachine. I'm certain you'll figure it out and whatever happens will still be delightfully Cuckoo.
Thank you! Great comment, thanks for sharing. I always feel I should’ve given the Monomachine a proper chance!
Don't forget the video capabilities of the OP-Z, since you've dabbled with multimedia before (mainly the kid concerts). Have you tried running your OP-Z and OP-1 through a Heat to thicken it up a bit?
I'll also use this opportunity to pitch in my thanks for your videos over the years. I'm proudly a Patreon. You were instrumental in my purchase of the OP-1 and, not to disparage the work of others, your videos have always been a cut above for my personal tastes. Whatever you wind up taking with you, you will no doubt create something magical.
Awesome video. Exactly what I need right now. I'm so looking forward to see how the Digitakt+OP-1 combo works out. Which one will serve as the master clock? How will they interact? How will the audio be wired up? So much helpful goodness.
More like show and tell!
Would love to see you doing something with a Roland TR8s!
Most of the music you shown would perfectly fit in a video game. I would love to play a game with your music :)
Hahaha, glad to hear that! Video game music is in my roots!
love this cuckoo :-)
+1 for the Novation Circuit here. I adore mine. I'd never get rid of it (or my OP-1). I like filling the Circuit with random sample bleeps from my synths, and then throwing sequences together... The Circuit is so inspiring :) Also, have you tried a TR-8S? I've had a lot of drum machines, but the TR-8S is every drum machine rolled into one. I have a library of classics (sample based like the Linn and DMX) and it's like using the originals, if that make sense. Great video :) x
Cool series! You should look into getting the Deluge :)
Thanks! The Deluge holds enormous potential! I don’t know it well yet, but will take a much closer look at it this fall.
I tend to buy this digitone after this video
That Yamaha synth was a trip
thanks cuckoo!
Thank yoU! I hope you find some of it interesting :)
i do i love seeing the process
Very inspiring and informative video. Great. It's more like a quick demo with all the synths. I'd choose. Personaly i'd go for A4 MK2 + Digitakt + OP1 if i had to choose from all those.
Yeah it's hard to ditch the A4. That would be a great setup.
Yes, The A4 is very versatile. So many things in one box to controll them all. Curious why don't you do live with the eurorack? ... An A4 With an eurorack case could do some magic.
I did some Eurorack flavours on my mini tour in Japan last year. My only issue with Eurorack is that in my music I tend to wanna change the rules very fast from one part to another. I feel like I'd need a very large modular with different sections dedicated to different things, to kind of keep up with that. Either that, or to create a modular that I can let grow over a longer set..
That's what i was expecting, after i saw some of your live gigs videos. You tend to mingle with them a lot. In eurorack you need to be careful with what you modify. But there are some modules you can play on immediately.. Not too many. There are some samplers you can get weird and abstract. Also some sequencers with imediate action, like the new Erica Synth Drum Seq. :D Anyways. Good luck with your gigs mate. Cheers.
Great words at the end, I've got two mpc lives ....but chosen two circuits for same reason, don't forget it controls midi too....fast sequencer to control synth and program changes?
I'm on the same boat, not sure if I want to bring the modular or not, it's nice to play live but I want to travel light as well... DECISIONS!!
Those arturia cases are kind of portable, won't fit on hand luggage though!
Great series! What about the Octatrack?
Metroid is life
You should make an exclusive jam with Volca and Tenori, so they don't feel so left out. Also you should add some 100 kg string machine to your set-up ;)
Cool video again Cuckoo! I like this setup, it's nice to follow your thinking process and see how you tackle this stuff. :) Quick question, where can I buy those cool colored patch-cables (for example like the ones @1:39 on the right side of the screen plugged in the Digitakt)? Thanks! :D
Thanks mate! I'm buying the cables from my local music stores. I don't know what brand they are, I'm just looking at colours and if they look sturdy. Here in Oslo it's either the bigger 4sound chain, or the cooler small mates DLX music and Filter Oslo. Usually you can find a pack of 6 multi coloured cables x 1,5m in length or something like that.
Cool stuff. Right now im stuck between even getting a daw pc vs trying to make an album with one of these tools...daw too much choices with vst gluttony. I like the idea at the end of going by inspiration and workflow...are there any machines like that i could also record guitar or vocal parts as well? Sort of like a multitracker as well? Maybe thats where the pc could come in use?
Love my Analog 4 MK2 but wish they had kept the small form factor that exists in the MK1 version. I am not a piano or key board player so lack of keyboard never caused me issues in creating music.
I also wish it was smaller, but I appreciate the new design regardless.
I'm totally into this type of subject at this moment!
I think that i see "live" music the same way as you ahah
Can you record your live in Russia, i'll be please to listen to it
Is a MIDI foot controller an idea to add live to the drums?
Hey love your work but can't be a patreon just yet, however I'd like to send a one time donation (for starters). How do I do this? Your work is amazing and thank you for doing what you do.
Thank you for your kind words and all! If you want to I’m open for donations through www.paypal.me/truecuckoo
Like your thoughts on portability! I loved your gig at the small club in Japan but I noticed you had a big mixer there, do you bring a mixer also? Also have you tried Arturia Beatstep Pro? Thoughts on that?
Cuckoo i love you man but at 38:52 when you say 'teenage' I SHIT MY PANTS
@11:40 FTW!
PS: Um... where's the HP filter @18:55 ?? ;-)
I really wonder how you want to do a solo gig without a central master machine which feeds the other machines via midi with a kind of default structure for the songs (sync for sections, sound/pattern selection, default note sequences etc.pp.).
The lack of a proper song mode like the arranger on the OT is the feature I miss most on the Digitakt.
op 1!
In Pt.1 What was the track in the end:)? ANd another great one:)!
Thanks! The ending music was a short little improv with a sample instrument and the Arturia Keystep as a controller and sequencer
OP-Z look so fun. Still no release date on this?
Is the Op-z soft release in New York still happening? If it is they must be finishing up the final version soon...
@cuckoo how do I load these samples that you have for sale on your pattern into live and use them. A simple link to someone doing it would help
Inte Ableton Live, mostly just drag the sample from the folder to the destination where you want to use them. Ableton Live can receive samples in many places by drag-and-drop. Som of the packs contain custom Ableton Live "Sampler" instruments. They must be first loaded by opening up the Ableton Live file in the downloaded pack. And then you can drag the instrument you wish into your Ableton Live library folders on the left side of the screen, for use in other projects.
Does that help?
The weirdest and cutest interface prize goes to Yamaha. It shows how fwd-thinking japanese designers and engineers are. 256 steps of cuteness. Holy guacamole
Cookie Monster what was that device called? I need one!!!!
Tenori-on