Espen Kraft Spins Vintage Magic with the Roland MC-50 & TR-626

Espen Kraft kicks off the video with a nod to the Roland MC-50 sequencer, a piece of gear that’s been as reliable as your favorite pair of sneakers. He calls it a ‘workhorse,’ and that’s saying a lot in a world where technology seems to glitch just when you need it. For Espen, this sequencer has been a trusty companion in live performances, nailing every cue without a hitch. Right from the start, he sets the tone of ease and familiarity with this vintage equipment. It’s like watching a pro bartend with a shaker he’s been using for decades. There’s a sense of comfort knowing he’s got a tool that’s reliable, and he’s well-versed in using it.

Now, if you’re here for grooves, Espen’s got you covered. He dives into his Roland TR-626 drum machine like a chef working in his open kitchen, mixing sounds from the Yimu ESI-4000 and his own samples like spices until he finds the perfect recipe. With beats that slap like street vendors in a busy market, he crafts a rhythm that’s all about the layers. Espen’s skill in layering kicks, snares, and hi-hats is akin to a street artist adding dimensions to a wall mural—nothing is there by accident.

From the onset, Espen uses simple tricks like clearing patterns to zero in on creating crisp, engaging drum loops. His approach to layering sounds is meticulous, yet playful, peppering in toms and claps with the precision of an artisan. And just when you think you’ve heard it all, he adds a woodblock to surprise your ear, much like a restaurant dropping a secret sauce ingredient into a signature dish. Every sound has its rightful place in the mix, proving Espen’s expertise in the medium is second to none.

Next, we’re diving into a sea of synths—Espen style. Imagine a conductor shaping an orchestra with a digital baton; that’s how Espen manages the MIDI tracks. Using the JX-8P and Alpha Juno 2 like a seasoned sampler curating beats, he shows off his mastery by seamlessly recording sweet pad and bell sounds.

The addition of the Novation Mininova controlling the other synths over MIDI is like having a ninja move silently between rooftops—it’s as smooth as can be. Espen navigates MIDI setups with the ease of a samurai handling a katana, slicing through technical complications and letting the creative juices flow. His setup allows him to control multiple layers and channels without breaking a sweat, making it look like child’s play.

Each synth adds its own flavor to the mix, not unlike a top-tier DJ spinning multiple tracks to create one cohesive sound. It’s a melodic choreography, where every instrument knows its role and timing, confirming Espen’s knack for knowing just what ingredients make the track pop.