Ultranoire approaches contemporary electro-pop music and vintage synthpop from its darker side, combining smooth sensual baritone vocals with some gloomy, mid-tempo electronic sounds. The German/Hungarian duo was formed in 2014 by Josef Stapel (singer-songwriter, composer) and Szilard Kun (keyboards). So far both of their albums have successfully landed high in the dark underground audience lists as best sellers.
They continue to grow in popularity on home ground and the International dark underground music scene making a name for themselves for their trademark sounds and vocal delivery. They are currently planning to follow up on the success of their critically acclaimed second album Intronaut by releasing their long awaited third studio album in 2019.
We chatted with Josef on how he’s been using the Mopho x4 with Ultranoire:
What made you choose the Mopho x4?
“I was looking for a versatile, at least four-voice polyphonic synthesizer with a full-size keyboard. I completed a lot of research, read articles, reviews, and watched many YouTube videos. I initially I thought I would decide on a vintage synthesizer, then I re-evaluated when I discovered the Mopho x4. I went to our local music store and tried it some days later. Last but not least, the portability of the instrument was an important factor, too. I have owned it for a while now and I have to say that this 4-voice, analog subtractive polysynth has been worth every penny.”
How are you using it?
“I’ve been using the Mopho x4 for a number of different things. For instance, currently I’m composing our third album, working on an instrumental interlude which will be placed between two songs. A huge part of this instrumental piece was made with the x4.”
What’s one of your favorite things about it?
“The Mopho x4 is an incredibly reliable instrument and ultra-versatile. It’s versatility allows you to create bass sounds, leads, pads, drum/percussion sounds, strange soundscapes, atmospheres, crazy drone machine sounds, etc.”
What does it give you that other synths might not?
“Our music style is synthesizer-based, so we have used and worked with many synthesizers. Most of them we’ve replaced one after another, but some, like the Mopho x4, we insist on keeping. For me, an ideal synthesizer is more than a design tool that helps me to create the sounds and melodies of my songs. The ideal synthesizer is an instrument that creates some kind of connection with my inner self, pushes my boundaries, express my musical ideas, and transforms the material-less into the material.”
Any interesting tricks or techniques you’d like to share?
“I especially like the Slew parameter, which allows smooth sliding between steps. Oh, and there are almost 60 destinations to which the LFO can be sent, while Envelope 3 can loop, adding to the options and versatility.”
LINKS
www.facebook.com/ultranoiremusic
MORE ABOUT THE MOPHO x4
For more information, check out the Mopho x4 product page here.
Find your local dealer for Mopho x4 pricing here.
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