Live Musique Concrète On The Elektron Model Samples

Greek synthesist Kostadis Michail shared this playlist of live performances that explore a different way of using the Elektron Model:Samples.

While Elektron markets the Model:Samples as a sampling drum machine, Michail uses it more as a platform for live musique concrète performance.

Here’s what Michail shared about the technical details:

“Electronic pad Nord Drum 2 triggers (by midi) the Model Samples working as multi-sampler (field recordings, voices, cassette tapes, ambient).

The velocity of pad controls the starting point of any sample you have on 6 tracks of Model Samples.

This live performance was recorded by Kostadis Michail at studio Victoria in the 14th of March 2023.”

Michail has been active in the Athens music scene in various bands, including In Trance 95, Acid Baby Jesus, Sclavos & Lost Bodies. Michail’s latest Kostadis release, is available on Bandcamp.

11 thoughts on “Live Musique Concrète On The Elektron Model Samples

    1. Yeah it’s maybe not groundbreaking process, but it is a novel way to use this machine that most people are probably not doing. I really like the idea of velocity controlling the starting point of a sample, that’s a clever trick I’m gonna try!

  1. Parts throughout the piece remind me of sounds generated by a Tesla Spirit Radio. It is very difficult to describe unless you had the chance to hear one.

    1. Because pop music has the three minute attention span covered. All those long drawn out pieces/performances let the audience know who’s taking their musicianship seriously…they are out to show who’s boss (yeah right…anything above 10 minutes tops should have the auto turn-off kick in)

      1. the accessibility of the “sonata” form and current popular dance tempo preferences probably account for the 3 minute standard. i haven’t listened to popular music in decades; it’s all horrible after the early 80’s.

    2. Some things music can do for an attentive listener require duration. Just like film, literature, etc. Maybe not for everyone, but many of my favorite experimental and musique concrete pieces/performances are “20, 30… 45 minutes” or longer, and need to be. But I realize not everyone is looking for what that offers.

  2. Very cool. Using the sampler to play what are effectively tape loops and “splicing” them in real time with the velocity of the drum hits varying the start times is a smart idea.

    It sounds a lot like musique concrète with different dynamics into the mix.

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