LiamKillen Gets Groovy with the Elektron Analog Four

LiamKillen kicks off with the Elektron Analog Four MKII, expressing a vibe that’s rhythmically inclined, despite aiming to tap more into melodies. He compares it to the Vermona Performer MKII, pointing out how the Analog Four’s built-in sequencer adds a level of complexity and versatility that the Performer lacks. Liam appreciates the sequencer’s juicy capabilities, equipping the device as more than just a monophonic synthesizer. It becomes a mesh of possibilities, functioning as both a drum machine and a synth. Initially, Liam contemplated whether the Analog Four was worth keeping, as its default presets didn’t pack the thick, analog punch he sought. But the transformation came with a customized preset pack, turning the tides in his favor.

Liam delves into his sonic journey with the Analog Four, revealing that the default presets weren’t hitting the right notes initially. His solution? Investing in new preset packs that breathed new life into the device. Despite no groundbreaking discoveries initially, it was his collab with fellow creator Stereo Image that was a game-changer, crafting a preset pack that finally unlocked the Analog Four’s potential. This transition marks a sweet spot after six months of exploration. Liam shares candidly about how these presets became the cornerstone of his setup, providing the foundational pulse for new ideas. With just four tracks, the Analog Four might seem limited, but for Liam, it’s a kick-ass starting point, perfectly fitting into his analog-digital hybrid setup featuring the TIAQ A3440 and SSL Big Six. It’s all about capturing that tape flavor and routing through precision tools, bridging worlds like a boss. As Liam spins through his process, he gives nods to future projects where this setup will shine even brighter.

Liam unveils his favorite bass sounds, emphasizing the ‘Silent Object’ preset that fuels his current soundscape. He demonstrates how he locks in the groove between kick and bass using micro-timing, ensuring the transient vibes are in sync like a tight crew on a dance floor. It’s all about subtle tweaks, where mysteries of beat layering turn into an art form. Playing around with delays and altering filters, he tweaks the high ends to echo Pulsar 23’s unique sounds. It’s a process of trial and error, where each adjustment can take a beat from flat to fat in seconds. Liam’s keen ear for fine details stands out here, making bass lines feel like the backbone of a classic street jam.

Wrapping up, Liam discusses how his workflow revolves around crafting loops, showcasing the versatility of the Analog Four in a live setting. Each session births a new loop, which can then be polished and expanded in Ableton Live or with other digital tools. It’s about taking those raw sounds and sculpting them into polished beats. Through a detailed explanation, he shows how these loops become building blocks of larger creations, capable of igniting any crowd. With individual audio outputs, Liam transforms his jams into refined tracks, blending analog warmth and digital precision. As he hints at future explorations with his setup, it’s clear that the Analog Four has cemented its place in his creative toolkit, proving it’s more than just a phase, but a core part of his musical DNA.