Bendy keyboard designer, Roli has launched a new product called Blocks, an ambitious attempt to create a new style of music creation and recording system.
Blocks is a modular music studio that connects together to create customisable kits that suit any budget, skill level, and musical style. Using the magnetic connectors, music-makers can now build their instruments as they go.
Artists including Grimes, Steve Aoki, and RZA are already making music on Blocks and creating signature soundpacks for Blocks musicians. Grimes said, “Roli Blocks will democratise music production. 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.”
Three Blocks launch today. The Lightpad Block features a tactile, glowing surface that lets people shape music through presses, glides, and other natural gestures. The Live Block and Loop Block have controls designed to make it easier to perform and produce in real time. The system is powered by Noise, a free music app for iPhone and iPad that is now available at the App Store. Noise connects to Blocks wirelessly over Bluetooth, becoming the system’s sound engine as well as a standalone app.
Roland Lamb, founder and CEO of ROLI, said:- “Many areas of life have been transformed by the digital. Music, though, remains a universal language that everyone understands, but only a few can speak. Blocks will change that, and enable people around the world to experience the joy of music-making for the first time.”
The Lightpad Block, Live Block, and Loop Block are exclusively available at Roli.com, Apple.com, and Apple Stores around the world. Lightpad Block retails at $179 (£169.95) and the Live Block and Loop Block at $79 (£69.95).
