Sound Behind the Song Archives

Kat Bein October 1, 2020

The TR-606 was born of experimentation. It gave free rein to a generation of bold musicians like Autechre to create tracks like “Autriche.”

Benjamin Heywood October 1, 2020

Before the legendary producer was a household name, Steve Albini used the TR-606 to achieve the punishing drum sounds of “I’m a Mess.”

Jason Heffler October 1, 2020

808 State’s ode to the Roland TR-606 has stood the test of time as one of the quirkiest yet most trailblazing tunes in their discography.

Mike Sparks September 9, 2020

The spiraling of the TR-909 on “Hunter” weaves a web of percussion. Immediately, the track draws the listener into a world of intrigue.

Alexander Dias September 9, 2020

The cultural ramifications of “Big Fun” are difficult to measure. Inner City drafted the sonic palette for a movement.

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.