Melody with Arturia DX7 V and SEQ32

With the kick and sub in place, Tom turns his attention to melody. “I need some kind of direction, and eventually define the ‘chord’ of the track. I usually just take a synth... for example, let’s use Arturia’s new DX7 V, which is a cool emulation.”

Efficient workflow is important. “I’ve created my own sets of things which I reuse: MIDI effects, audio effects, patches, things I have made myself. It makes life easier, as I don’t have to scroll through plugins. So I have bespoke ‘go-to’ presets which help me out to find quick ideas. For example, I use a Max for Live 32-step sequencer by HY-Plugins. It makes it really easy to find some quick ideas.” Tom selects a seven-step sequence which he randomises, then begins experimenting with DX7 V to create a new patch that fits with his randomised notes.