Augmenting a track with multiple MIDI effects

We’re looking at three separate MIDI effects here, to transform three ‘predictable’ MIDI sequences

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We start with three separate parts. The first is a consistent sequence which features running (and identical) 16th notes. The second is a copy of this, transposed down to become a bassline. The third part is a drum loop. There’s lots of power but no variation.

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We turn the first 16th note sequence into a kind of sample and hold pattern by randomising pitch. We select Note Number (pitch) as the Event Type at the top, then select a note range of 30-90. A Random value of 46 means that each note jumps, at random, to a new pitch.

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We turn the volume of the first 16th note sequence down and then duplicate this track to a new instrument. This doesn’t duplicate the MIDI effect, so we’re back to a sequence of identical running notes. We assign this to a sawtooth lead sound from Massive.

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For this duplicated part, we set up Logic Pro’s Modulator effect which allows us to use LFO or envelope style techniques on MIDI sequences. We choose the LFO and set up a four-bar ramp with Velocity as a target. As this is mapped to volume and filter cutoff, both change as the sequence plays.

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We add a single synth note to the second beat of every other bar of the track. To this, we add a long reverb and a reversed delay to add some drama and depth to each note. It still becomes predictable after a couple of repeats, however.

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We use Note Repeater. We automate the Delay time, which varies the ‘quantise’ value of each repeated MIDI note, while using a Transpose offset to ensure each repeat is an octave higher. We also automate the number of repeats so that the last repeat features six (rather than three) repeats.