Grimes, RZA and Steve Aoki Create "Sound Packs" for Modular Music Instrument, ROLI Blocks
“It brings whole new levels of expression to my music.”
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[gallery columns="3"]Grimes, RZA and Steve Aoki are the latest musicians to promote ROLI Blocks, a pocket sized modular music studio that will “democratize music production,” according to Canada’s synthpop queen Grimes. This LEGO-like instrument has a touch-sensitive silicone platform, colorful lights, and raised sections called “keywaves.” Launching off of the success of the Seaboard, Blocks takes the multitouch, MPE MIDI-powered technology and incorporates it into a compact and affordable instrument.” It’s so intuitive and versatile. I’m always on the go, and Blocks is the most powerful mobile production tool I’ve ever used,” says Grimes. Due to Roli Block’s continuous pressure and velocity sensitivity, you can use your fingers to create a variety of expressive sound effects.” If I ever have writer’s block in the studio, I reach for Blocks. It brings whole new levels of expression to my music,” adds RZA. To promote ROLI Blocks, Grimes, RZA and Steve Aoki have created “sound packs” that users can use to incorporate into their music.
The base Lightpad Block costs $179 USD, with additional Live and Loop Blocks available for $79 USD each, all available on ROLI’s site.