10. May 2025

JET

BlairysBeatlab Takes the Octatrack to the Next Level

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BlairysBeatlab dives into the labyrinthine world of Elektron Octatrack, showing us how this elusive beast of a device transforms from a seemingly nonsensical gadget to a powerhouse of music production. Unravel the chaos and discover the magic of live jamming and beat-making with Blairy’s expert tips and tricks.

First Glimpses and Frustrations

From the get-go, BlairysBeatlab sets the stage with a comical mishap – glasses collapsing mid-presentation, a metaphor for the convoluted initial experience with the Octatrack. Like a pub brawl where you’re not sure who’s thrown the first punch, the Octatrack stumbles into the scene with all its complexity. Blairy, with typical dry wit, describes the device as a ‘real piece of s**t’ when you first encounter it. Yet, he insists, this confusion is a rite of passage before discovering the unique capabilities hidden within. If you’ve got the patience and the grit, this machine will reward you with music-making possibilities unlike anything else on the market.

"This thing is a real piece of s**t when you first start using it."

Track by Track Breakdown

Here, Blairy takes us through a comprehensive tour of his Octatrack setup, delivering insights as gritty and raw as the gear itself. Track 1 features the Model:Cycles, acting as a through track, echoing like a clattering of dishes in a back alley. The synergy of MIDI control and physical inputs sets the tempo for the magic that follows. Effects such as comb filters and lo-fi textures get a good thrashing as Blairy revels in their ability to mangle and screw up sounds to his liking. It’s a clever balance between chaos and control, as he copies patterns across banks for consistency in his sonic pursuit.


Exploring Sonic Textures

"It just gives a really gritty glitchy sort of texture."

In a world where digital perfection often reigns, Blairy’s approach is refreshingly tactile. Track 2’s usage of static tracks adds layers of drum breaks, seeking the acoustic amidst digital clatter. It’s like finding a diamond in a dodgy kebab. The glitchy undertones bring an edginess to his beats, creating a tension that keeps listeners on their toes. A breakbeat is time-stretched to the brink, adding grainy textures to the soundscape. The method to his madness, as Blairy insists, is about adding vibrancy and character without slipping into chaos.

Looping and Layering Techniques

Diving deeper, Blairy unveils his method of looping and layering, akin to a DJ spinning records with a personal touch. Using flex tracks, he captures melodies and bass lines, assigning them across tracks to maintain a coherent memory recall for live performances. It’s a live looping masterclass, with not a manual in sight. Pitch shifting and reverb effects take centre stage, allowing Blairy to craft sonic landscapes that shift and evolve with each bar. This setup isn’t just about sound, it’s creating an experience, a sonic journey where each note is carefully piled upon the last to build a dynamic wall of sound.


The Art of Transitioning

Transitioning between tracks is handled with the deft touch of a seasoned performer. BlairysBeatlab demonstrates how grabbing a loop of the master output, and then manipulating it, can turn any beat shift into a spectacle. His ‘lazy chop’ technique turns the process of slicing loops into an art form, utilising triggers and parameters for real-time manipulation. It’s like switching gears on a slick race car but doing it on a synth. The power of the Octatrack lies in its ability to allow such flexibility and creativity, a feature that other devices often lack.

"This is the thing that I really couldn't find any other device to do."

Master Channel and MIDI Integration

"The coolest thing about the Octatrack to me."

Wrapping up the tutorial, Blairy delves into the final touches on the master channel and the MIDI intricacies of the Octatrack. Here, effects like high-pass and low-pass filters are playfully manipulated, creating a faux compressor pumping effect. It’s all about giving the mix an extra kick—a move as bold as a headbutt at a punk gig. Furthermore, the integration with Waldorf Blofeld through MIDI sequences showcases the Octatrack’s versatility. Crafting sequences on the fly, Blairy demonstrates a balance of functionality and creativity, proving that with the Octatrack, you’re only limited by your imagination.

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Octatrack
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Model:Cycles
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Waldorf Blofeld
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