Groovin’ with Malo Beats and the MPC Live 3: A Rhythmic Reboot

The Return of the Groove Machine

Malo Beats kicks off his video with a burst of excitement – he’s got the MPC Live Mk3 back in his hands. After having sent it off for a while, the thrill of reuniting with this iconic beat box is palpable. He gives a shoutout to Akai for sending it back, signaling a fresh start with a powerful tool he’s missed profoundly. As Malo sets up to create the first beat with the newly returned gear, you can feel his anticipation. This isn’t just about making music; it’s about rekindling a relationship with a trusted studio companion. Malo also doesn’t miss the chance to plug in some sweet deals on audio equipment via his channel’s links, keeping it both real and resourceful.

MIDI Madness: Setting Up the Magic

Malo jumps into a detailed walkthrough of connecting the MPC Live 3 with external MIDI gear, specifically the Key 37. He breaks it down step-by-step, starting with a USB cable snaked out from the MPC keys. He sets a blank session on the keys, configuring a MIDI track that sings in harmony with his MPC Live 3. Malo’s setup isn’t just a technical process; it’s a testament to his methodical approach and deep understanding of the craft.

He creates a new track on the MPC for a plug-in instrument, opening a realm of sound possibilities. And as he crafts a new drum track, Malo’s enthusiastic exploration is contagious. His eagerness to mess with the warping feature adds another layer to the setup process. Malo recalls his time with the MPC Live 2, appreciating its straightforwardness but clearly yearning for the expansive capabilities of the Live 3. “There’s a lot going on right here on the Live 3 and I’m just excited to explore it some more and just get more familiar with it,” Malo declares, setting the stage for a beatmaking session that’s as much about discovery as it is about creation.

"There's a lot going on right here on the Live 3 and I'm just excited to explore it some more and just get more familiar with it."

© Screenshot/Quote: Malobeats (YouTube)

Sampling Sorcery: Chops and Drops

Malo unleashes the beast of sampling, diving into techniques that are as intricate as they are funky. He starts by sampling directly into the MPC’s memory, struggling a bit with time signatures on the fly but taking it in stride. Instead of seeing obstacles, Malo sees opportunities – a chance to stretch the creative possibilities of his gear.

He delves into micro chopping, a method that adds flexibility and flair to production. Malo’s candid approach to not always knowing the perfect measure shows that even seasoned pros sometimes play it by ear. With a sprinkle of humor, he queries, “Not every record, maybe you’re listening to this and you know exactly like yeah I know the measures of that tune.” His approach is like crafting street food – it’s all about taste, not the recipe.

Malo showcases his method of figuring out different chop points and timing, using the zero snap feature to perfect his slices. This part of the process reveals how Malo’s skill turns potential pitfalls into moments of rhythmic innovation. His relaxed yet precise exploration of the MPC’s capabilities makes for a session that’s equal parts tutorial and jam session.

Timing Tricks and Warping Wonders

"Perfect, there's no gaps in between now."

© Screenshot/Quote: Malobeats (YouTube)

As Malo refines his beat, adjusting sample slices becomes pivotal. He highlights the importance of accurate timing and precision using the MPC Live 3’s warping feature. This is where the magic happens – allowing the beat to evolve seamlessly without sacrificing its natural groove.

Malo advises on using the shift and zero snap to ensure no clicks or pops disrupt the rhythm. This is crucial, as the cleaner the slice, the smoother the sound. He continues to finesse the samples, tapping into his intuition and seasoned ear. “Perfect, there’s no gaps in between now,” he assures, proving that careful attention to detail pays off in musical gold.

The warping function transforms not just the sound, but its adaptability to different tempos without altering pitch. Malo explores its potential at varying BPMs, demonstrating how it preserves the original integrity of the sample. His demonstration underscores the MPC Live 3’s effectiveness as a tool for dynamic music production, seamlessly integrating technical prowess with creative freedom.

Catch That Vibe: Evolution of a Beat

Malo’s beat begins to take shape, and with it, a sense of excitement swells. As he layers in bass sounds and synths, the track becomes richer. It’s a moment of triumph, a testament to how much he enjoys the process of creation. “Man, I haven’t had this much fun in a long time while making,” he exclaims, encapsulating the joy of music-making.

He talks about stepping beyond his comfort zone, playing with BPMs he wouldn’t usually consider. “Usually my go-to method is like repetition, mind, muscle memory,” Malo confesses, embracing new tempo territories with 100 BPM. This willingness to push his boundaries reflects in the evolving soundscape that mixes whimsical elements with deep bass grooves.

Malo encourages viewers to savor every moment of the process – it’s about the journey, not just the end result. His commentary urges producers to take time with their work, emphasizing the value in refining each element thoughtfully. This attitude is a guiding principle for anyone looking to elevate their music creation game, especially when dealing with complex tools like the MPC Live 3.

Signing Off with Style

Malo wraps up his session with gratitude and reflection, encouraging his viewers to share thoughts and experiences. It’s not just a tutorial; it’s a heartfelt exchange between Malo and his audience. In true Malo style, he punctuates the ending with laughter and thanks, creating an enduring sense of community.

As he shuts down the session, there’s a feeling of accomplishment that’s palpable. He’s come full circle with his MPC Live 3, rediscovering its capabilities after a period without it. “Thank you for hanging out with me,” Malo says, inviting viewers to engage with the creative process themselves.

The video doesn’t just end; it leaves a resonating chord of inspiration. Malo’s sign-off reflects the energy and passion that fuels his work, making it clear that anyone can dive in and craft something remarkable with a little patience and a lot of heart.