Robbie Bennett's Sonic Adventure with Unique Gear

Hey there, fellow music and gear enthusiasts! Today, I want to dive into the fascinating sonic world of Robbie Bennett, the creative force behind his new solo albums, Steloken and Circulation. You might know him as the keyboard wizard from The War on Drugs, but he’s now embarking on a journey that showcases his unique sound and some of the weirdest gear on the market, reminiscent of the eccentric collectibles in your favorite retro games.

Robbie’s approach to music is much like a classic RPG—where every decision counts and every piece of equipment plays a crucial role. While working on his solo projects, he creatively melded sounds using a mix of instruments, including a vintage Oberheim OB-X8 synthesizer and a quirky Soma Terra synth that looks like it came straight out of a fantasy realm. Imagine combining the thrill of exploring a dungeon with the satisfaction of crafting the perfect soundscape!

What’s really exciting about Robbie’s new albums is how they contrast with the soaring, psychedelic vibes of The War on Drugs. He’s taken a more subtle route, venturing into hazy electronic textures that feel like wandering through a dreamy level in an N64 game. It’s a departure that showcases his growth as an artist while embracing the creative chaos that comes with experimentation.

Robbie’s recording process sounds like a game of Tetris, where each sound piece fits perfectly into the puzzle. He would layer tracks in real-time, creating a rich tapestry of sound that kept evolving. It’s all about enjoying the journey—much like playing your favorite retro game for the sheer joy of it. He even mentioned that he wasn’t initially thinking about the listener; he was just having fun making sounds, which is how the best gaming moments often happen!

What’s even cooler is how Robbie’s gear influences his creativity. The Soma Terra, for instance, is an unusual microtonal synth that utilizes gesture control, allowing him to explore sounds in a way that feels almost magical. It’s like finding a rare item in a game that unlocks new abilities and takes your experience to the next level. While his bandmates might have teased him about bringing such an unconventional instrument into the studio, it’s precisely that kind of adventurous spirit that leads to groundbreaking music.

So, in the spirit of classic gaming, let’s celebrate Robbie Bennett’s musical quest! His willingness to explore unique sounds and create outside the box is a reminder that sometimes the most extraordinary adventures come from experimenting with the weird and wonderful. Keep your eyes peeled for his new albums because they promise to be a delight for anyone who loves to push the boundaries of sound!