Modulus III is an instrumental live electronica trio based in Bristol, UK and comprised of multi-instrumentalists Dan Moore and Drew Morgan, with drummer Matt Brown. The trio recorded their self-titled debut LP at a live performance in their home town of Bristol. The resulting record was released in 2018 on vinyl, CD and digital.
Despite having the chops of top-level session instrumentalists, Modulus III’s musical manifesto is a reaction against the tendency for virtuosity for virtuosity’s sake in a lot of modern/nu jazz, and is more philosophically akin with the post-Sun Ra-esque aspirations of fellow post-jazz, electronica space cadets such as The Comet Is Coming, the hypnotic, polyrhythmic explorations of Steve Reich, and the expansive, improvisatory ethos of early 70’s Miles Davis.
We chatted with Dan about how he’s using the OB-6.
What made you choose the OB-6?
“I was looking for a polyphonic synthesizer to expand my sound palette. During my research, fellow musician TJ Allen suggested I check out the OB-6. The idea of having access to the classic SEM sound coupled with some thoroughly modern features seemed very appealing. Once I heard the instrument in action, I was completely sold.“
How are you using it?
“In Modulus III we improvise everything, so I have to be able to move fast and generate ideas in the moment. The design of the OB-6 allows me to realize sounds very quickly and sustain or develop them to suit what is happening. I can take the lead and play a melody, initiate a sequence, create a supporting texture, or just throw the dials and create something unexpected. I’ve also been using the instrument in the studio for recording sessions, so it appeared on a Massive Attack song two days after I acquired it. Recently, I played the OB-6 live with a full orchestra for a Kraftwerk-inspired project. We have become inseparable.“
What’s one of your favorite things about it?
“It invites you to explore. Every time I sit down with the OB-6 to work, the hours disappear and I lose track of time completely. I think that is the mark of a great instrument.”
What does it give you that other synths don’t?
“It allows me to develop my own sound. There are not many instruments out there that truly give you the ability to do that.
Any interesting tricks or techniques you’d like to share?
“I like to randomize my process every now and then. The X-Mod section is very effective for pushing sounds into a totally different realm, so I’ve been having lots of fun with that. Another trick is to play a chord, press Hold, crank the filter open, then throw the Detune knob all the way over. Watch the audience’s faces melt!“
LINKS
MORE ABOUT THE OB-6
For more information, check out the OB-6 product page.
Find your local dealer for pricing here.
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