The Keyboard Chronicles

Gigging, Gear and Great Music

Roland

Roland Releases n/zyme Expansion for Fantom

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Los Angeles, CA, January 20, 2022 — Roland announces the n/zyme Model Expansion for the FANTOM synthesizer series, the latest addition to the acclaimed ZEN-Core Model Expansion lineup. Built for hands-on sound design, n/zyme is a thoroughly modern instrument with an innovative new synth engine from Roland. Offering layered wavetable oscillators, phase and shape modulation, resonant filters, and two powerful step LFOs, n/zyme is a highly interactive music tool that brings a new dimension of creative power to all FANTOM owners.
Wavetable-based synths are famous for their distinctive sound, but many can be hard to program. FANTOM’s hi-res touchscreen and physical controls change all that, making n/zyme a fun, tactile instrument that inspires players to take their music into uncharted sonic territory. In contrast with basic synthesizer waveforms, wavetable oscillators employ multiple waveforms, and it’s possible to jump or morph between them for everything from dramatic shifts to slowly evolving soundscapes. With the ability to mix two layers with 63 wavetables each and adjust their positions in real time, n/zyme makes it easy for creators to develop complex textures in the heat of the moment.
Players can physically shape the sound of n/zyme by drawing custom waveforms right on FANTOM’s touchscreen, and then tweak them using a range of powerful modulation tools. It’s also possible to manipulate sounds with an X/Y pad on the touchscreen, complete with automation support and tempo-synced control over speed, intensity, and more.
Two onboard Step LFOs feature 16 tempo-synced steps and 37 different shapes per step. There’s also a Step Kick Switch to add percussive attack for deeply rhythmic sounds and phrases. Going further, users can process n/zyme’s futuristic oscillators with FANTOM’s eight onboard filter types, including detailed models of vintage analog designs.
With FANTOM’s massive DSP power, players can layer multiple n/zymes for ultra-deep tones with sophisticated movement. It’s also possible to mix n/zyme with classic Roland synthesizers, acoustic instruments, and vocoders to craft sounds never heard before.
n/zyme is the latest in a growing lineup of Model Expansions for ZEN-Core instruments and is available via a Lifetime Key purchase through Roland Cloud. Support for n/zyme is included with the free Version 3.0 update for the FANTOM 6, FANTOM 7, and FANTOM 8 keyboards.
 
Availability & Pricing
The Roland n/zyme Model Expansion for the FANTOM synthesizer series is available now as a Lifetime Key for $149 through Roland Cloud.

JD-800 Software Synthesizer Announced By Roland

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Roland Announces JD-800 Software Synthesizer
Authentic Software Recreation of the Iconic ’90s Digital Synth,
Available Exclusively Through Roland Cloud
Los Angeles, CA, October 26, 2021 — Roland announces the JD-800 Software Synthesizer, the latest addition to the Legendary series of software-based Roland instruments available through Roland Cloud. In early 2021—30 years after the debut of the original JD-800 hardware synth—Roland introduced the JD-800 Model Expansion for the ZENOLOGY software synthesizer and select ZEN-CORE hardware instruments. Now, the anniversary celebration continues with the release of this iconic digital instrument as a dedicated DAW plug-in. The JD-800 Software Synthesizer delivers a virtual recreation of the original’s unique sound and inviting control-laden interface, along with a host of new features and enhancements for today’s music producers.
In the early 1990s, preset-driven digital synths with limited hands-on controls dominated the landscape. The JD-800 changed all that in 1991, bringing the synthesizer world back to its roots with a massive control-filled panel and an unapologetically electronic sound palette. An instant hit among the world’s top keyboard players, this innovative instrument found its way onto classic albums and numerous film and television scores, and it remains highly sought after to this day.
The JD-800 Software Synthesizer is painstakingly crafted to sound and behave exactly like the original hardware. Rather than simply combining a bunch of JD-800 samples, Roland used the original waveform data along with advanced modeling techniques to perfectly recreate the big, bright, spacious sound that only the JD-800 can deliver.
A key ingredient of the JD-800’s sound was its formidable multistage effects section. It’s been carefully recreated in the plug-in and enhanced with an expanded view for real-time tweaking. In addition to a master EQ, there are seven effects with adjustable controls and the ability to change the signal flow with drag-and-drop actions.
The JD-800 Software Synthesizer includes 64 original presets from the JD-800 hardware, plus 64 newly crafted presets that show how inspiring and evocative the synth can be in a modern context. And with the plug-in’s extensive array of top-level controls, users can easily create all-new sounds to make their music stand out from the crowd.
The JD-800 Software Synthesizer offers a hyper-realistic interface that’s resizable for high-resolution screens and comes in VST3, AU, and AAX formats for compatibility with popular Windows and Mac production software. The plug-in also features native Apple silicon support for the highest level of performance on the latest Mac computers.
The JD-800 Software Synthesizer is the newest member of Roland Cloud’s Legendary series, which includes plug-in versions of other Roland classics like the JUNO-60, JUPITER-8, TR-808, TR-909, D-50, and more. Legendary titles are available with the Ultimate membership level of Roland Cloud. All paid levels—including Core and Pro—start with a free 30-day trial of Ultimate, allowing users to try out the JD-800 and all Ultimate features. In addition, any Roland Account holder can purchase Lifetime Keys for individual Legendary series titles. This provides unlimited access for as long as their account is active, even if they don’t have a Roland Cloud membership.

New ZEN-Core Sound Packs for Roland Cloud

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Roland Releases New ZEN-Core Sound Packs for ZENOLOGY and ZEN-Core Compatible Instruments on Roland Cloud
Roland has announced the release of new ZEN-Core Sound Packs, genre-specific collections that provide new sounds for Roland’s ZENOLOGY Software Synthesizer and ZEN-Core hardware.
Driven by the powerful ZEN-Core Synthesis System, Sound Packs deliver everything from vintage analog to fresh hybrid tones. Each pack focuses on a specific genre or instrument type, or features sounds from some of the world’s most exciting sound designers and leading artists.
ZEN-Core Sound Packs come in two different types: Production Packs and Instrument Packs, both of which will be dropping regularly.
Production Packs
Production Packs deliver a curated set of authentic sounds, including a custom drum kit, to explore a certain genre or style of music. Compatible with the ZENOLOGY Software Synthesizer and Roland hardware instruments with the ZEN-Core Synthesis System, all the new curated collections below feature 15 expertly crafted tones and one drum kit.
SDZ011 LazerQ
Take aim and move bodies with LazerQ—a ZEN-Core Sound Pack for producing gritty acid house and dark EBM/industrial tracks.
SDZ012 The Whip
Give in to the dark side with The Whip—a ZEN-Core Sound Pack for producing techno, dark wave, and industrial tracks.
SDZ013 Opener
Live life in the big city with Opener—a ZEN-Core Sound Pack for producing R&B and electronica tracks.
SDZ014 Panoram
Explore the depths from a new angle with Panoram—a ZEN-Core Sound Pack for producing deep house tracks.
SDZ015 Classic Groove
Keep it smooth and funky with Classic Groove—a ZEN-Core Sound Pack for producing classic hip-hop and R&B.
Release Date: June 16th 6:00 PM PDT
Instrument Packs
Roland’s forthcoming Instrument Packs for ZENOLOGY and ZEN-Core compatible instruments will focus solely on a specific kind of sound—like bass, plucks, or pads. The first five Instrument Packs will be released later this month, and previews of all five are provided below. 
SDZ016 Electro Bass
The place for synth bass—Electro Bass is a ZEN-Core Sound Pack that explores the deep end of the sonic spectrum. This curated collection features 15 expertly crafted tones and one drum kit.
SDZ017 Analog Plucks
Say a lot with a little using Analog Plucks—a ZEN-Core Sound Pack of 16 short and sweet plucked synthesizer tones.  
SDZ018 Synth Strings and Pads
Create instant atmosphere with Synth Strings and Pads—a ZEN-Core Sound Pack that fills the empty spaces and features 16 expertly crafted tones.   
SDZ019 Metallic Plucks
Create a delicate edge with Metallic Plucks—a ZEN-Core Sound Pack that evokes minimalism and cold beauty and features 16 expertly crafted tones.
SDZ020 Transitions and Risers
Get from here to there with Transitions and Risers—a ZEN-Core Sound Pack for connecting your musical ideas.  
Release Date: June 25th 6:00 PM PDT
All new ZEN-Core Sound Packs are offered with Roland Cloud Core, Ultimate and Pro memberships and can also be purchased individually as a Lifetime Key for $.99.

Roland Releases Three New Patch Collections for Roland Cloud

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Roland has announced the forthcoming releases of three new patch collections for Roland Cloud: SH-2: Space Aged, PROMARS: Curiosity, and SYSTEM-8: Frontiers, all crafted by top sound designers.
 
The SH-2: Space Aged collection features 64 presets for Roland’s recreation of the iconic SH-2, the little monosynth that could. Pulling inspiration from space, the patches in this collection take advantage of the SH-2’s arpeggiator function and evoke the constellations with their complexity, richness, and usability. Explore the black hole-like low end of “Synth Shock Bass,” or fall into an arpeggiated asteroid belt with “Gamer Glytter.” 
 
Also, from June 9 to 23, 2020, anyone with a Roland account can enjoy the SH-2 virtual synthesizer and the SH-2: Space Aged patch collection for free. Simply log in to Roland Cloud Manager, install the SH-2 from the library, and download the patch collection from the software section.
 
Release Date: June 9, 2020, 6 PM PDT
 
PROMARS: Curiosity
This collection for Roland’s recreation of the fabled PROMARS synth pays tribute to the analog powerhouse, delivering layered tones that give way to fizzy atmospherics, often within a single patch. Discover the bubbles of “1981” or the modulations of “Karhornia.” Then, take advantage of genre-tailored basses like “Italobass” for a Moroder moment or “Teutonik Bass” to capture the mood of a Berlin dance floor. 
 
Also, from June 16 to 30, anyone with a Roland account can enjoy the PROMARS virtual synthesizer and the PROMARS: Curiosity patch collection for free. Simply log into Roland Cloud Manager, install the PROMARS from your library, and download the patch collection from the software section.
 
Release Date: June 16, 2020, 6 PM PDT
 
SYSTEM-8: Frontiers 
SYSTEM-8: Frontiers is a premium patch collection for the hardware and software versions of Roland’s forward-looking SYSTEM-8 Synthesizer. SYSTEM-8: Frontiers leverages SYSTEM 8’s powerful engines to deliver mysterious arps, heartbreaking keys, and cavernous pads. Patches include the majestic “HOME”, Hydra-7”, “EBM Bass” and “The Darker Pad.”
 
Also, from June 25 to July 9, anyone with a Roland account can enjoy the SYSTEM-8 virtual synthesizer and the SYSTEM-8: Frontiers patch collection for free. Simply log into Roland Cloud Manager, install the SYSTEM-8 from your library, and download the patch collection from the software section.
 
Release Date: June 25, 2020, 6 PM PDT
 
The SH-2: Space Aged, PROMARS: Curiosity, and SYSTEM-8: Frontiers collections are offered with Roland Cloud Ultimate and Pro memberships. 
 

Bonnie McIntosh, Selena Gomez / Melanie Martinez

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download

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We delve into the pop genre, speaking with Bonnie McIntosh on everything from making the transition to pop from classical music, to go-to gear and the lessons learnt when playing keyboards as part of a massive theatrical show.

Links to content mentioned during the show:

MI College of Contemporary Music

Bonnie performing with Melanie Martinez

Roland AX-Edge

Desert Island Discs: The Battle of Los Angeles – Rage Against The Machine, Self-Titled – The Dresden Dolls, Good Kid, M.A.A.D. City – Kendrick Lamar, Alive 2007 – Daft Punk, Toxicity – System of a Down

Don’t forget to click on any of the subscribe links to automatically have each episode download, or just click play on the player above to listen right here.

We’re always keen to hear from you: drop us a line via the website, Facebook, or Twitter if you have any feedback or would like to suggest a guest (it can even be yourself!)

Andrew Farriss, Solo Artist and INXS

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Episode 6 sees us talk to one of the greatest Australian songwriters in rock history, Andrew Farriss. Both in his current guide as a country artist or as half of the incredible songwriting partnership with Michael Hutchence that led to INXS having worldwide success, Andrew talks gigging, songwriting and of course keyboards!

Links to content mentioned during the show:

Tania Kernaghan

Lawrie Minson

Andrew Farriss – Good Momma Bad

Andrew Farriss – Come Midnight

Andrew’s keyboards and guitars over the years

Beale upright piano – 1950’s

Ace Tone portable organ with a wobbly analog tape echo 

Steinway Model B – 1990, Bluthner grand piano – 1904

Roland SH-7 synth, Roland SH-5 synth

Roland TR-707 drum machine 

Prophet 5 synth 

Fender Rhodes 73, Wurlitzer piano 

Emulator 2  sampler

Fostex 8 track tape recorder 

Pro Tools 

Roland Juno 60 synth

Roland MKS 80 & programmer, Roland JV-1080, Roland JV-1010

Fender 1956 strat, 1968 maple Gibson 340 Semi Acoustic elec guitar 

Maton 808 ACC guitar, Gibson 1947 Southern Jumbo 

Mesa Tremoverb 

Lawrie Minson Hand made analog fx pedal

Don’t forget to click on any of the subscribe links to automatically have each episode download, or just click play on the player above to listen right here.

We’re always keen to hear from you: drop us a line via the website, Facebook, or Twitter if you have any feedback or would like to suggest a guest (it can even be yourself!)

 

Roland Fantom Gets Its First Sound Expansions

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Roland aren’t resting on their laurels with their new Fantom models

Roland’s new Fantom 6, 7 and 8 have only been in the wild six weeks or so, but some sound expansion sets are starting to hit the market. Roland themselves have released six sound sets and they’re free – at least for now.

The six sets are:

EXZ006 EXZ World Instruments

EXZ005 EXZ Studio Sounds

EXZ Power Drums

EXZ003 Session Drums

EXZ002 EZX Stage Piano 2

EXZ001 EZX Stage Piano 1

I’ve had a listen and there’s some damn nice sounds in there that will catch the eye of potential buyers. Some of the sounds from the Studio Sounds and Stage Piano sets particularly appealed to me.

However, the elephant in the room remains: organs. Hopefully that’s something to be remedied in the near future.

Have a listen to all the sound sets for yourself, right here.

Would love to hear your thoughts after you have a listen.