Search dance music

Review: There's niche, then there's niche. Universal Japan dive into the latter with a huge celebration of nostalgic sounds - a good chunk of the scores created for Konami's early video game catalogue. The definition of chip music, the album initially presents itself as the kind of release you'd discover and appreciate after spending some time exploring the many contemporary tracks which take inspiration from, but don't totally emulate, classic arcade and console titles. Remarkably, it quickly becomes clear the opposite might be true. Yes, there's something utterly naive and rather basic, compressed and unpolished about what's here. But then it's hard not to find yourself rapidly getting involved with 'Blank Mask (Stage 3 BGM)''s oddly hypnotic bleeped hook, becoming lost in the endless spirals of melody on 'Aircraft Carrier (Stage 6 BGM)', or feeling real joy at the celebratory 'Seisan'.

Review: 20-year scene veteran DJ Unknown has dropped plenty of great albums in his time both in solo mode and with the Tru-Paz band. He is known for his harmonious and soulful sound and for offering up driving beats for MCs to set to work on. He first rose to prominence in Toronto playing a mix of house, rock, reggae and hip hop but is now a full matured beatmaker who excels on his new album Prisoners of Gravity. It embarks on an epic science fiction journey, depicting life in a dystopian Earth and the quest for a purpose beyond its bounds conveyed through a captivating audio-visual narrative with psychedelic undertones. Ambitious in scope and execution, it offers an immersive experience that pushes the boundaries of hip-hop imagination and creativity.

Review: A third album of wonderfully intimate, idiosyncratic songwriting from multi-instrumentalist Stephen Gilchrist - formerly the Stuffy in the much loved Stuffy & The Fuses - in his Stephen EvEns guise. The name may be singular, but from the choir of voices singing the opening tune 'A Song For Europe' to the child's voice at the end of seafaring epic 'Hello Salty Salty', this is very much a community effort and feels like it, with Stephen's core collaborators Jimi Scandal (guitar) and Crompton Whesp (drums) joined by guests like former Curve/Echobelly bassist Debbie Smith, longtime Cardiacs keyboard player William D Drake and Hurtling/My Bloody Valentine guitarist and keyboard player Jen Macro. The mood palate is on just as grand a scale as the personnel list, from the Nick Drake-style acoustic guitar/strings interplay of 'Firefly' to the beefy hip-hop backbeat of 'BBQ Head & 7 Bells', a two part track, the first half dedicated to the joys of cooking in the garden, the second about paranoia and the threat of violence. Elements of psychedelia, some gorgeous analogue synth tones, a penchant for a quirky time signature and/or arrangement all add to what's already a very tasty concoction that anyone with an ear for a tenacious earworm or two will love.

Notes: Proper futuristic amp modelling and effects courtesy of Mooer's next-level GE1000, featuring AI-driven auto-EQ and a five-inch touchscreen. Hook up to the GE Cloud app to edit and share sounds.

Supplier's Notes:
MOOER has consistently pleased the guitar pedal market with its GE multi-effect range, and its latest addition, the GE1000, is set to be no exception. The GE1000, built with a futuristic and sleek "Walking Star" design, builds upon past GE products, offering an even larger range of guitar processing effects, preamps, amp simulators, and features than previous entries.

The GE1000 comes preloaded with an impressive bank of guitar effects and amp simulations, but this is augmented further through MNRS GE Cloud support. MOOER's MNRS files consist of IR samples from real amplifiers, facilitating authentic feeling tones that can be downloaded, uploaded, and shared via MOOER's 'GE Cloud' app for free. The GE1000 also supports third-party IR files of up to 2048 sample points, enabling further expansion of the pedal's portfolio of amp simulators.

Further adding to the GE1000's impressive amplification and tone features, the GE1000 includes a cutting-edge AI-driven automatic equalizer, a first for MOOER. This automatically adjusts a 5-band EQ based on the user's playing and music style choice, providing further possibilities for creativity whilst still providing the flexibility of a manual-controlled EQ interface.

MOOER hasn't only focused on tone and pitch with the GE1000 exclusively, which is illustrated perfectly by the integrated Groove Station rhythmic toolkit, consisting of a style-specific drum machine and a looper. These features have been designed to work both independently and in tempo synchronization, making them adaptable for all types of jam. The looper even includes automated record and count-in functions, activating the loop recording when an input signal is detected, providing a unique hands-free looping experience.

MOOER has always excelled at providing innovative UI experiences, and the GE1000 is set to continue this trend. The pedal features a 5-inch high-quality coloured touch screen designed for intuitive multi-effect workflows while keeping some fan favourites from previous GE pedals. These include the signature MOOER multi-purpose control dials, buttons, and a quick-access expression pedal.

Additional flexibility can be found within the pedal's cutting-edge control systems, including programmable MIDI ports, bundled preset management software, and compatibility with the MOOER mobile app.

This level of flexibility is matched by the pedal's audio routing solutions, which feature Bluetooth playback, USB audio interfacing, serial and parallel TRS stereo FX LOOP compatibility, and industry-standard input and output ports.

Notes: ***B-STOCK: Item refurbished, repaired and in perfect working order.***


The Furthrrrr Generator has a main oscillator (carrier) with an extensive and fully voltage controllable wave multiplier and a modulation oscillator (modulator) that can cross-modulate the carrier. Each oscillator has hard and soft sync and also features an integrated tuner: if both LEDs are lit the VCO is at note A. Left LED is lit at note Ab and right LED at A#. Frequency potentiometers are ten-turn models and thus allow for easy tuning. Frequency range of the VCOs is 10Hz-10kHz (and much lower in modulator's LFO mode). Both VCOs feature 2 frequency CV inputs (1x with bipolar attenuator, 1x with 1V/octave), one FM input (jumper selectable between linear and exponential FM) as well as separate input for hard and soft sync. The voltage characteristic can be selected between 1V/octave and 1.2V/octave (Buchla norm).

The main oscillator (carrier) outputs the waveforms sine, saw, square and white noise. The two outputs marked with the magic eye are outputs of the "harmonic section" that generates very complex sounds by the wave multiplier and its parameters symmetry, order and Furthrrrr in the module's right-hand section. Symmetry lowers the level of even harmonics and amplifies the odd harmonics (this affects the pulse wave's width as well). Order adds saturation to the high order harmonics and resembles a low pass filter. Furthrrrr alters the level of harmonics set by the other parameters and produces very interesting, partly brute sounds with lots of harmonics by clipping and folding the wave. All three parameters can be voltage controlled. The carrier oscillator also has inputs for hard and soft sync, the sync-switch can synch directly to the modulator.

The modulation oscillator (modulator) has three wave forms with direct outputs: sine, saw and square. Using the internal modulation via the "mood section" the waveform is selected with a button; an additional staircase wave form is available here, but it can be overridden by inserting a signal into the external input socket. A switch activates the LFO mode.

The Mood section is responsible for the internal modulation of the carrier by the modulator. Switches determine the modulation destination(s) that can be activated simultaneously. These are the Furthrrrr parameter of the harmonic section, the amplitude and the frequency of the carrier oscillator. The "balanced" switch activates the ring modulation between both VCOs. intensity of modulation is controlled by the "mood index" potentiometer and the according CV input with bipolar attenuator.

Notes: The Next Generation of Intelligent Effects Interfaces

Following the success of The Prime P1 - MOOER have refined the concept of a combined ultra-portable digital effects device and audio interface. The Prime P2 features an enhanced user experience courtesy of a 1.3" touch screen as well as a fully revamped effects and rhythm suite.

Users can access 52 amp models + 10 GNR downloadable file slots, 25 Cab Sims +10 GIR/3rd IR downloadable file slots*** and 57 classic and experimental effect models making the need for bulky pedals and multiple power supplies a thing of the past. From touch sensitive vintage amp models to huge stereo reverbs, modulations and delays based on powerful digital algorithms, the Prime P2 can more than keep up with the demands of the modern guitarist and each chain is fully customizable - that's right, you can put your effects in any order you want for maximum versatility.

The Prime P2 is the ideal tool for streaming/social media use and is designed to make immediate, high-quality sound creation as effortless as possible with seamless connectivity via Bluetooth for playback and the USB-C port for on-the-go recordings* as well as a stereo output jack and TRRS headphone input which supports headphone integrated microphone use. In addition, the integrated rechargeable battery gives up to five hours of power - making the Prime P2 a great choice for the musician on the move.

Users can download the MOOER Prime App* for increased functionality via mobile device. This allows deep-dive editing of preset patches and effects chain parameters as well as storage and recall of up to 80 presets. You can also download and share presets on the MOOER Tone Cloud.

While a mobile device can be used to control the tuner, drum machine, metronome and Looper - MOOER recommend an F-Series wireless footswitch (sold separately) for hands free operation. This transforms the Prime P2 into a very powerful live performance tool. MIDI connectivity is also available for Preset switching, Looper and Drum Machine functions using CC commands from an external MIDI controller.

Features:
Eliminates the need to carry a large number of different pedals and their associated power supplies
Easy configuration of an effects chain without complicated user interfaces
1.3" touch screen allows quick preset changes and access to the tuner directly on the device
Based on MOOER's unique MNRS technology, allowing for high-quality digital amp models and effects in a small format
52 amp models created with MNRS technology + 10 GNR slots to store simulation files downloaded from the cloud
25 cab sim models + 10 GIR slots to store simulation files downloaded from the cloud or third-party IR files
57 classic and experimental effect models
Up to 80 presets in 20 banks
Drum machine with 56 groove varieties, can be synchronized with the Looper
4 metronome styles
Looper with a total capacity of 80 minutes (storage for 10 loops with 8 minutes each)
Supports loading of 3rd party IR file
Supports Tone Cloud sound sharing
Supports stereo output for stereo effects
Stereo headphone output with support for headphones with integrated microphones.
Bluetooth audio playback in stereo for practice or jamming
USB-C charging port also supports audio playback over USB and USB-OTG for live streaming and easy recording
Can be controlled using MOOER F-series wireless footswitches
Can be controlled from an external MIDI controller
Integrated rechargeable battery with up to 5 hours of battery life
Free mobile app for easy editing of sounds as well as saving, organizing and sharing presets**
MOOER Studio PC management software for backup and updates, 3rd IR loading.
* An adaptor may be necessary depending on your device
** The MOOER Prime App is available from Google Play Store, Apple App Store or the official MOOER Download-Support website.
***MNRS is MOOERS's proprietary sampling technology which can be used to sample preamps, combos, pedals and speaker cabinets - MOOER MNRS Sample files come in two categories - GNR files (Amps, preamps, pedals and effects) and GIR files (Cabinet models) for a huge array of sounds.

Specifications
Input: 6.35 mm (1/4") TS, 2 MO
Output: 6.35 mm (1/4") TRS, 100 O
Headphone: 3.5 mm (1/8"), 32 O
Screen: 1.28" Touch Screen
USB: Type C for charging or OTG recording
Bluetooth version: 5.0
Bluetooth: Bluetooth audio playback and App control
Wireless control: 2.4G
Wireless footswitch: supported
Battery capacity: 3000 mAh
Battery life: 5 hours*
MIDI Port: 3.5 mm (1/8")
Charging requirement: 5VDC / 2 A (10 W)
Charging time: 2.5 hours for full charge*
Dimensions: 120 x 64 x 21 mm (LxWxH)
Weight: 152 g
Accessories: Quick-Start manual, USB-C to USB-A cable, 3.5 mm jack to 5-PIN MIDI-connector

*Charging time and battery life are based on lab test data.
Disclaimer: Parameter updates will not be notified separately.

Notes: The Next Generation of Intelligent Effects Interfaces

Following the success of The Prime P1 - MOOER have refined the concept of a combined ultra portable digital effects device and audio interface. The Prime P2 features an enhanced user experience courtesy of a 1.3" touch screen as well as a fully revamped effects and rhythm suite.

Users can access 52 amp models + 10 GNR downloadable file slots, 25 Cab Sims +10 GIR/3rd IR downloadable file slots*** and 57 classic and experimental effect models making the need for bulky pedals and multiple power supplies a thing of the past. From touch sensitive vintage amp models to huge stereo reverbs, modulations and delays based on powerful digital algorithms, the Prime P2 can more than keep up with the demands of the modern guitarist and each chain is fully customizable - that's right, you can put your effects in any order you want for maximum versatility.

The Prime P2 is the ideal tool for streaming/social media use and is designed to make immediate, high-quality sound creation as effortless as possible with seamless connectivity via Bluetooth for playback and the USB-C port for on-the-go recordings* as well as a stereo output jack and TRRS headphone input which supports headphone integrated microphone use. In addition, the integrated rechargeable battery gives up to five hours of power - making the Prime P2 a great choice for the musician on the move.

Users can download the MOOER Prime App* for increased functionality via mobile device. This allows deep-dive editing of preset patches and effects chain parameters as well as storage and recall of up to 80 presets. You can also download and share presets on the MOOER Tone Cloud.

While a mobile device can be used to control the tuner, drum machine, metronome and Looper - MOOER recommend an F-Series wireless footswitch (sold separately) for hands-free operation. This transforms the Prime P2 into a very powerful live performance tool. MIDI connectivity is also available for Preset switching, Looper and Drum Machine functions using CC commands from an external MIDI controller.

Features:

Eliminates the need to carry a large number of different pedals and their associated power supplies
Easy configuration of an effects chain without complicated user interfaces 1.3" touch screen allows quick preset changes and access to the tuner directly on the device
Based on MOOER's unique MNRS technology, allowing for high-quality digital amp models and effects in a small format
52 amp models created with MNRS technology + 10 GNR slots to store simulation files downloaded from the cloud
25 cab sim models + 10 GIR slots to store simulation files downloaded from the cloud or third-party IR files
57 classic and experimental effect models
Up to 80 presets in 20 banks
Drum machine with 56 groove varieties, can be synchronized with the Looper
4 metronome styles
Looper with a total capacity of 80 minutes (storage for 10 loops with 8 minutes each)
Supports loading of 3rd party IR file
Supports Tone Cloud sound sharing
Supports stereo output for stereo effects
Stereo headphone output with support for headphones with integrated microphones.
Bluetooth audio playback in stereo for practice or jamming
USB-C charging port also supports audio playback over USB and USB-OTG for live streaming and easy recording
Can be controlled using MOOER F-series wireless footswitches
Can be controlled from an external MIDI controller
Integrated rechargeable battery with up to 5 hours of battery life
Free mobile app for easy editing of sounds as well as saving, organizing and sharing presets**
MOOER Studio PC management software for backup and updates, 3rd IR loading.

* An adaptor may be necessary depending on your device
** The MOOER Prime App is available from Google Play Store, Apple App Store or the official MOOER Download-Support website.
***MNRS is MOOERS's proprietary sampling technology which can be used to sample preamps, combos, pedals and speaker cabinets - MOOER MNRS Sample files come in two categories - GNR files (Amps, preamps, pedals and effects) and GIR files (Cabinet models) for a huge array of sounds.