Japanese Artist: World Musician

Despite the cult following for Yellow Magic Orchestra, collaborations with David Byrne on the Oscar-winning soundtrack to 'The Last Emperor', and a long-standing musical friendship with David Sylvian, the multi-faceted talents of Ryuichi Sakamoto are still not widely appreciated. Mark J. Prendergast attempts to rectify the situation...

Hans Zimmer is the complete antithesis of the serious German synthesist - he smiles a lot for a start! As co-founder of Lillie Yard studio and the proud owner of a surviving Moog Series 8 modular synth, his approach to sound synthesis is a refreshingly traditional one eschewing the very thought of ever using an unmodified factory preset on any of his work! Ralph Denyer explains why.

A look at the new, exciting Musical Instrument Digital Interface

Another colourful bonanza of hot new products served up to delight you

Responsible for establishing artists like Yazz and Lisa Stansfield, Coldcut also have a reputation for being one of the most innovative production teams around. Tim Goodyer learns about their new LP and the future of computer graphics.

People, Gear, Events, Gossip

happening people, gear, gossip, events

Want to get into computing and multimedia but unsure where to start? Ian Waugh guides you through the maze of computers and jargon

The first of three personal views of a nation that's revolutionised the development and manufacture of hi-tech musical equipment. Hugh Ashton checks out the gear and the music.

our look at the forthcoming Frankfurt Musical Instrument Fair - at 7½ Instruments Per Second

Lookout... it's coming this way!

More news, views, and a smidgeon of hot gossip!

Every news bulletin tells us more about "the recession" - but how badly is it affecting the music biz? Ian Waugh reports from the front line at the International Music Show.

A sneak look at what you could well be buying in the forthcoming financial year

Using the Kurzweil K2000 to create and perform a tribute to John Lennon

PUNISHMENT OF LUXURY and THE PASSENGERS

Rich rock stars? Who needs 'em? We bring you exclusive interviews with reality: Newcastle's Punishment Of Luxury, and The Passengers from London. Adam Sweet T'ing sees, hears and tells.

Pioneer of the sampling revolution, Tim Simenon, is back with a new album, a new studio and a refreshing update on what technology has to offer music. Tim Goodyer charts Unknown Territory.

As close to the cutting edge as you can get without needing stitches...

Jon Hassell has been at the leading edge of new music for three decades, with major contributions to western avant garde and world music. Following the re-release of two classic albums from the early '80s, Mark J. Prendergast presents a retrospective of Hassell's work.

Composer and studio owner Guy Fletcher had a dream: 'The European Suite' was the end result. Ted Fletcher details the work that went into its recording.

A History of Wind Synthesizers

Could the wind of change be upon us? MIDI has already given guitarists and drummers the means to control electronic sounds, and the launch of the Akai and Yamaha wind controllers now allows woodwind and brass players to join in. John L. Walters takes a general look at the historical development of wind synthesizers, and the Akai and Yamaha products in particular.

The Best Music Program Ever?

Part 2: Kendall Wrightson continues his pilgrimage through Finale, Coda Software's music transcription program for Apple Macintoshes (and soon PC compatibles), lingering at the Playback, Hyperscribe and Transcription tools.

Exclusive news from UK Electronica, plus all the latest in the world of MIDI music

three-month investigation finishes with six mixers priced £1500 to £3500

Part 2: Mark Prendergast continues his in-depth look at the formation of Eno’s new record company, Land Records, and the use of electronics in his music.