The latest video from synthesist Julian “J3PO” Pollack captures a live improvisation, centered around the Arturia KeyStep Pro.
Here’s what Pollack has to say about the technical details:
“In this video, I set a few sequences in motion, followed them where they wanted to go, and improvised along with them in real time.
Using the Arturia Keystep Pro as the central sequencer, I built a foundation of evolving patterns and then improvised freely around them. The result is a fully spontaneous performance where composition and improvisation begin to blur together. When I perform this way, the sequencer becomes less of a tool and more of an improvisational collaborator.
This is a DAW-less performance. No computer was used in the creation of the performance itself, aside from recording and creating the final mix, including some additional processing for levels, compression, and overall balance.”
Instruments & Gear:
- Oberheim Two Voice Pro
- Vintage Vibe Electric Piano
- Minimoog
- Roland TR-8S
- Arturia Keystep Pro
- Assorted pedals and effects
- Analog Cases XTS Stands
I love my Arturia Keystep Pro. I can sequence at least 4 different synths with it using MIDI connections and it lets me program quite a few drum patterns on track 1. I’ve been successful in using cv/gate hookups to program my old Yamaha CS5. There is a slight problem: I can’t seem to stop the constant tone coming out of it before and after I play the sequence. It just keeps sending out the last tone I stop on. I use a mixer to turn it off but it’s not ideal. I’ve tried every setting on the Keystep Pro, setting different Hz and Triggers on the unit and in MCC and shut off all MIDI input and output for that track. I’ve made sure the CS5 initial level is down and the eg depth is up and the synth is using the right gate and trigger inputs and even used external input as well. I’ve also bought new quarter inch to eighth inch mono cords but nothing has changed. If you have any information about this controller, I’d be grateful. Thanks so much! Sincerely, Ken.