Just obtained a couple modules, the WMD AXYS Stereo Crossfader and the IO Instruments Sponde, and so I broke from the ongoing Dry Lightning project to make sure these modules are functioning properly. Sunrise Surprise is the first result of this testing procedure.

Of course, the VC340 is used for the vocoded vocals. The other voices heard in these pieces of coolness are from two Neutrons patched up in various ways. The other primary modules in use for these pieces are the TipTop Audio Trigger Riot and the Blue Lantern CMOS Party Logic modules.

The lyrics are primarily directed at various aspects of the current political climate in the US, but intentionally kept more general as to apply well beyond. In the takes of the second session, the lyrics have been omitted, allowing the music to stand for itself.

For the second takes, the polyrhythmic pulsations of the Trigger Riot are attenuated to various levels through the Sponde, then directly input into oscillators one and two of the first Neutron, and the first oscillator of the second Neutron as well as the LFO rate on the same. This LFO rate, by the way, controls the wave splicing actions of the AXYS.

FYI, the first Neutron is in charge of the bass in regards to its own output, but also contributes to parameters of other sounds heard. Same is true of the second Neutron, although, instead of the bass, it performs the minimal melodic line, which varies in tone and texture instead of pitch.

The takes vary from one to the next, even if subtly, due to the long periods of the polyrhythmic patterns controlling so many parameters. In addition, I went ahead and adjusted various aspects of the mix and compositional elements every other take or so.

At some point or another, I also added in some distortion on the second Neutron's output and, later, on the higher low end of the first Neutron.

For the third session, the vocals were brought back in. Each voice of this piece was performed and recorded in separately, for the most part, e.g. the bass line. Then each part was mixed and mastered from there.

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For Session 3.1, I selected the previous Neutron bass line and combined two takes of the second Neutron and wavesplicing minimalist melodic lines. I also added other takes of the vocals and separated them in the stereo spectrum. Similar stereo treatment was given to the second Neutron lines. Of course, all of these changes required a new mix and mastering based around that of Session 3.