Bandcamp is a resource for artists and labels of all sizes. Learn how to maximize this essential, fan-favorite platform.
The two legends discuss playing and tweaking sounds in the Roland V71 module, studio history, and why it all starts with the drummer.
From the Glastonbury Festival grounds, hybrid drummers share their setups and offer advice to aspiring musicians.
FEATURES
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Following the release of the soundtrack to Bruce LaBruce's film The Visitor,
Hannah Holland examines the path from club kid to DJ to music producer.
Kenny Dixon Jr. has released a steady stream of dance floor classics since 1994. Dig into the history of this icon of Motor City music.
From '80s synthwave to '90s synth rock, Belarusian post-punk trio Molchat Doma reveals the gear that makes the group tick.
Jamie Stewart, the confessional frontperson of experimental rock band Xiu Xiu, explains their love for Roland drum machines.
The enigmatic artist Photay opens up about his improvisational collaborators, the power of the weather, and how location influences art.
Hip-hop country crossover “A Hard Working Man” drips with vibe, melody, and love for the classics. Find out how the Avila Brothers made it.
LISTENING GUIDE
One of the most distinctive polys of the ’80s, the JX-3P is the secret sauce on tracks from movie themes to quirky indie cuts.
The past decade saw hip-hop go stratospheric. This playlist highlights tracks that helped the genre dominate the international stage.
The D-50 ushered in a new era of popular music that crossed all genres. Hear the synth in action with this varied selection of tracks.
Stones Throw Records challenges perceptions, demonstrating how a scrappy indie can create a deep cultural impact. Explore these essentials.
In hip-hop history, the early 2000s represent the point when the genre began to have fun. Explore these standout tracks of the era.
Learn
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From dubby tails to glacial repeats, here's how to maximize the classic RE-201 Space Echo delay using these essential tips and tricks.
Australian producer LUCIANBLOMKAMP walks us through the process behind creating the track for 6LACK’s smash hit “In Between."
Brooklyn's Xeno & Oaklander discuss their favorite Roland gear and how they utilized it crafting their latest release during the pandemic.
Deke Sharon and Antonio Fernandez of DCappella break down how they created their dubstep rendition of the classic Disney song, “Prince Ali."
SOUND BEHIND THE SONG
Explore the show's haunting theme song and learn how the composers leaned on vintage synths, including the Roland JUPITER-8 and SH-2.
“Rio” cemented the British fivesome as synth-pop legends and MTV superstars. The JUPITER-4 arpeggio is a defining sound of the '80s hit.
Doctor Who, the sci-fi phenomenon, has taken many forms—and so has its theme. Discover how the 1980 version became a definitive classic.
Explore the mysterious backstory of “Pump Up the Jam,” a worldwide electronic music smash and tale of mistaken identity.
FANTOM EX
SPOTLIGHT
Have you been waiting to begin your musical journey? Learn the basics of rhythm, meter, pitch, notation, and song arrangement.
DRUMS
The “Purple Rain” drum parts by Bobby Z. provide a classic example of how to play a power ballad for maximum emotional impact.
With Prismatic Sound Modeling, V-Drums have reached unprecedented realism and detail. Learn about the innovative modeling engine.
For Neil Peart's birthday and in remembrance of his immeasurable contribution to drumming, we journey back to revisit the Time Machine.
Explore the history and sound of the Roots' beloved track, “Mellow My Man," and learn to play some of drummer Questlove's iconic patterns.
With so many electronic drum kits to choose from, what’s the best intermediate choice? Roland’s TD-27 series provides the solution.
Our Contributors
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Arielle Silver is an LA-based singer-songwriter, literary writer, and yoga teacher. She was nominated for the Pushcart Prize and Best New Poets. Her latest album, A Thousand Tiny Torches, is out now.
Kaori is a music teacher and ex-Roland designer of digital pianos and auto-accompaniment systems.
A writer by fate, journalist by passion, and storyteller by vision. Bylines at: REVOLT, Grammys.com, Complex, Discogs, Vibe Magazine, Okayplayer, REVERB, and LEVEL Mag.
Based in Bath, United Kingdom Stuart is a veteran music tech journalist for outlets like Music Radar, Total Guitar, and more. In addition to his many publication credits, he was the editor of Rhythm.
A FEW MINUTES WITH
From '80s synthwave to '90s synth rock, Belarusian post-punk trio Molchat Doma reveals the gear that makes the group tick.
Daktyl is turning heads with his distinctive beats. The self-proclaimed gearhead discusses his influences, sample arsenal, and collabs.
Octave One’s Lenny Burden reveals the tools and techniques behind the duo’s tactile, electrifying live sets.
Ali Stone's new single "Crudo," featuring ZENOLOGY, refers to a love that's pure, sincere, and gets better with time.
Philip Woo opens up about his influences, the artistic hub of Seattle’s Garfield High School, and what keeps him dedicated to music.