Arturia SPARK Vintage Drum Machines Review

Arturia, the softsynth giant who has recently captured the hearts of producers everywhere with the MiniBrute, has also pushed into the territory of drum machines recently with the Spark drum plugin and hardware combination.  They've just come out with a different Spark called Vintage Drum Machines, and I felt it was my duty to check this out for all of you, seeing as how drum machines, especially those of the 80s, are so essential to many producers out there.  If you checked out the press release, you'll know they've got all the classics included-- the Roland 707, 808, 909, the LinnDrum, and lots of other kits.  Now the package of the software comes in at about $99 USD as a download, and $129 as a boxed product.  It's certainly more expensive than samples (which can be found of varying prices and qualities on the net), but is it worth it?  Let's find out.

SynthMania quick tip #3 - the 1980s bouncy octave bass

via MATRIXSYNTH

Ever wondered how to get easy 80s style bass octaves? This quick video from SynthMania showcases the easiest way to perform those classic bass octaves.

Jordan F - Definitely Miami

Jordan F - Definitely Miami by Jordan F

Unfortunately these days I've just started class again (surprise, I'm a college student) so I've recently been reacquainted with a lot of friends-- hopefully it won't detract too much from the post flow of the site, but you never know.  Jordan F's tracks add the perfect soundtrack the night rides in the car.

I've been getting an influx in reader submissions lately (thanks for sending your stuff in! I promise to respond to everything) and this one in particular caught my attention, and it definitely fits here considering I've got blue neon writing and you guys seem to love the 80s Nu Disco style.  Jordan F's new three song set is perfect for fans of the retro.  I actually immediately bought this EP as soon as I heard it I liked it so much, and you can even get it for free if you want over at his bandcamp, although I think you'll agree, it's better than free.  What better way then to kick off the end of summer and month of September with some great retro vibes?  Bonus: the artwork is straight vintage too.  Check out "Definitely Miami" above and "Cupido" below.

Jordan F - Cupido by Jordan F