Beat Gems: A Visual History of Drum Machines

Oli Freke, a musician and journalist, is currently working on a stunning coffee-table book titled Beat Gems, a visual history of drum machines, published by Bjooks. This beautifully designed book is packed with gorgeous photos, fascinating historical tidbits, and practical advice for making the most of your gear, whether it’s a vintage Roland TR-808 or a modern oddity like Erica Synths’ Pērkons.

Source: platform.theverge.com

Freke’s passion for drum machines is evident throughout the book, and his love for the subject matter shines through in every aspect of the project. As a musician and journalist, Freke has a deep understanding of the impact that drum machines have had on musical culture over the last sixty years. His enthusiasm is infectious, making Beat Gems a must-read for anyone interested in the history of electronic music.

Ableton Live: A Music Software Powerhouse

When it comes to music software, Freke is a huge fan of Ableton Live. He installs it straight away on any new computer, citing its feature set as one of the most impressive he’s ever seen. As someone who’s been making electronic music for years, Freke has a deep appreciation for the power and versatility of Ableton Live. He’s witnessed firsthand how the software has revolutionized the way musicians create and produce music.

YouTube: A Treasure Trove of Knowledge

Freke is also a heavy user of YouTube, where he watches a wide range of subjects, from science and maths to electronic music. He loves the way experts can explain complex concepts in an engaging and accessible way, making the platform a valuable resource for anyone looking to learn something new. While he admits to getting frustrated with algorithmic clickbait, Freke appreciates the platform’s ability to connect people with a shared interest.

Disappointing Gadgets and Forgotten Games

Despite his love for technology, Freke has had his fair share of disappointing gadgets. He recalls the frustration of using vegetable choppers and cubers, which never seemed to work as promised. On a more nostalgic note, Freke fondly remembers playing Elite on his Atari ST, a game that showcased world-building on a shoestring budget and truly creative results.

Wishes, Advice, and Obsessions

As a musician, Freke wishes he’d written a song that the whole world knew and loved, but he’s also grateful for the opportunities he’s had. His father’s advice to say yes to any opportunity that comes his way has stuck with him, and he’s been fortunate to have had many chances to pursue his passions. Currently, Freke is obsessed with drum machines, which he believes have tapped into the human need for rhythm and transformed musical culture over the last sixty years.

When it’s time to focus, Freke puts on a banging drum’n’bass set on Rinse.fm/kool and lets the music transport him to a world of creativity. He’s also a firm believer in the power of infinite combinations of ideas, which he’s explored in his writing. In fact, he once demonstrated that there are 82 quintillion 10-note melodies that can be written with the eight notes of the octave, a staggering number that’s left him in awe.

Freke’s love for physical media is evident in his latest purchase, the soundtrack on vinyl to the beautiful film Resynator. This stunning film tells the story of an obscure synth from the early ’80s and a daughter’s quest to learn about her father, who invented it but sadly died while she was a baby. The soundtrack is a must-listen for anyone who appreciates the beauty of electronic music.

Splurging on a Good Road Bicycle

Despite his love for technology, Freke is a firm believer in the joy of cycling. He thinks that a high-quality road bicycle is worth splurging on, especially when compared to the cost of a car. There’s something special about cycling in the countryside on a good bike, and Freke is grateful to have had the opportunity to experience it.

As a musician and journalist, Freke has had a front-row seat to the evolution of electronic music. His passion for drum machines and his love for the subject matter shine through in every aspect of his work. With Beat Gems, Freke has created a visual history of drum machines that is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of electronic music.