All articles tagged with #music production
The article highlights the top gear and software of 2025, including Roland TR-1000 drum machine, Arturia Pigments 7 synth, Native Instruments Absynth 6, Groove Synthesis 3rd Wave 8M, Stylophone CPM DF-8, Korg multi/poly native, and Cherry Audio Mercury-8, emphasizing innovations and notable releases in music technology for the year.
Universal Audio is running a holiday giveaway where users can select one free UAD plugin from a list of 10, including effects, synthesizers, and mastering tools, by registering with a UAD account and using the code HOLIDAYFREEBIE before December 31, 2025.
Universal Audio is offering a holiday promotion where users can download one free high-quality plugin from a selection of ten, including classics like the LA-2A compressor and Pultec EQ, usable with UAD hardware or as native versions, available until December 31, 2025.
A leak from Guitar Center suggests that Akai is preparing to release a new flagship groove workstation, the MPC XL, likely to replace the MPC X Special Edition, with design changes and upgraded features, expected to be unveiled around NAMM 2026.
KV331 Audio is offering its SynthMaster One plugin for free until January 4, a versatile wavetable synthesizer with multiple oscillators, filters, effects, and modulation options, suitable for various music production needs.
FL Studio is launching a full web-based version in 2025, allowing users to start projects in their browser and finish in the desktop app, supporting all plugins and platforms, which could significantly lower barriers to entry and enhance collaboration.
Roland has released its first analog drum machine in over 40 years, the TR-1000 Rhythm Generator, which recreates 16 classic analog circuits from the TR-808 and TR-909, combining authentic sounds with modern features, at a high price of $2,699.99, targeting professional studios rather than casual users.
George Drakoulias, a renowned music supervisor with a 25-year career, has contributed to major films and series like 'Severance,' for which he received an Emmy nomination, and has worked with iconic artists like Tom Petty and the Black Crowes. His deep knowledge of music history and instinct for selecting the perfect songs have made him a key figure in shaping the soundtracks of influential movies and TV shows.
Taylor Swift's upcoming 12th album, The Life of a Showgirl, is a collaborative effort with Swedish producers Max Martin and Shellback, who have historically shaped her sound. The album marks a return to pop bangers, with Swift taking the lead in songwriting and production, reflecting her growth and creative control. The collaboration highlights the influence of Swedish pop producers on her career and the evolving dynamics of her music production team.
Chappell Roan announced that her second album does not yet exist and may take at least five years to complete, as she prefers to write music without pressure and has been focusing on her mental health and social media boundaries after her successful debut and Grammy win.
Behringer has launched the JT Mini, a $99 analog synthesizer inspired by the Roland Jupiter-8, now available for pre-order. The JT Mini features a paraphonic design with three VCOs, a multimode filter, and a motion sequencer, offering a compact and affordable option for music producers. It supports full MIDI control and is powered via USB-C, making it a competitive alternative to the Korg Volca series.
Lana Del Rey has announced her 10th studio album, now titled 'The Right Person Will Stay,' set for release on May 21. Originally called 'Lasso,' the album will feature a country-inspired sound, with contributions from producers Jack Antonoff, Drew Erickson, and Luke Laird. Del Rey has been teasing this project since early 2024 and plans to release singles before the album's debut. The album's title change coincides with Del Rey's recent marriage to Jeremy Dufrene, hinting at romantic themes.
Djrum's new EP, "Meaning’s Edge," marks his first solo release in five years, showcasing his unique blend of genres and rhythmic complexity. Known for his unpredictable DJ sets, Djrum, aka Felix Manuel, brings a fresh perspective to his music, combining intricate drum programming with elements of jazz, breakbeat, and ambient sounds. The EP's standout tracks, "Codex" and "Crawl," highlight his ability to merge intense, dancefloor-oriented beats with delicate, atmospheric layers, offering a comprehensive view of his artistic evolution.
Kendrick Lamar unexpectedly released his sixth album, 'GNX,' featuring collaborations with artists like SZA and producers such as Mustard, Sounwave, and Jack Antonoff. Mustard, who co-produced the standout track "TV Off," was surprised by the album's release and praised Lamar's shout-out in the song as "elite." Mustard revealed that "TV Off" was intentionally linked to their previous hit "Not Like Us" and expressed excitement about future collaborations with Lamar.
Teenage Engineering has unveiled the OP-XY, a new groovebox in their Field series, building on the OP-Z's sequencing capabilities. The OP-XY features a dual CPU system, 8GB storage, and 512 MB RAM, supporting a 16-track sequencer with 24 voices of polyphony and multiple synth engines. It offers advanced step sequencing, live sampling, and a range of effects, all housed in a sleek black aluminum design. The device includes versatile connectivity options and a rechargeable battery, priced at $2299.