Quick Read Archives

Kat Bein September 8, 2020

Orbital share memories of “Chime,” the track that turned them into electronic icons, helping bring acid house from raves to Top of the Pops.

Kat Bein September 8, 2020

More than 30 years after Derrick May’s “Strings of Life” saw release, techno remains a pillar of the modern dance community.

Jake Uitti September 8, 2020

Explore the mysterious backstory of “Pump Up the Jam,” a worldwide electronic music smash and tale of mistaken identity.

Kristin Robinson September 8, 2020

Mantronix mixed Kraftwerk’s experimental feel with the warmth of Grandmaster Flash. “Scream” remains a landmark electro-funk hip-hop mashup.

Kristin Robinson September 8, 2020

“Heliosphan” relies on the drums to act as a driving force. Even when the track borders on chaos, the TR-909 maintains perfect time.

Peter Kirn September 7, 2020

30 years after its release, Joey Beltram’s “Energy Flash” remains one of the definitive techno tracks. It still sits easily in a DJ set.

Charles Burchell September 3, 2020

James Blake juxtaposes synthesizers and electronics with his voice and acoustic instruments. Use Roland Cloud synths to recreate his vibe.

Charles Burchell September 2, 2020

Megan Thee Stallion is a rapper, producer, and singer-songwriter. Re-create her chart-topping hit “Savage” using Roland Zenbeats.

Ari Rosenschein August 19, 2020

Ali Stone’s new single “Crudo,” featuring ZENOLOGY, refers to a love that’s pure, sincere, and gets better with time.

Ari Rosenschein July 27, 2020

“Jam On It” by Newcleus is a true hip-hop classic. The track is dense with groove, creative production, and lyrical panache.