Overview
Session #04 of Audio Buffer London — exploring systemic interactions, custom code, and generative processes for event sequencing and spatial performance.
All music producers create their own ecosystem with multiple apps in their environment; even a DAW itself is an ecosystem hosting many apps.
Session #04 looked into systemic interactions built with custom code, and explored generative processes for event sequencing and spatial performance. For this session, we hosted a round table setup — beginning with presentations from two incredible guests, followed by an in-depth, open discussion to truly unpack the subject together.
Nick Rothwell (Project Cassiel) took us on a journey through 30 years of controllerism — from MIDI processing on a Mac SE/30 with the UK's first copy of Max, to modern live coding and DAW metasurfaces. Emphasizing generative processes for event sequencing, Nick demonstrated systemic interactions with a special focus on Khyal Geometries: a Clojure-based live coding environment and matrix mixer for sequencing and performing.
Benji Fox, Head of Audio Visual at the Royal Academy of Arts, presented polybuild — a cybernetic spatial synthesiser built from custom code, synthesis hardware, and a scalable loudspeaker array. By treating each speaker as a discrete synthesised voice, polybuild collapses the distinction between sound and space. Benji demonstrated how his rule-based compositional engine enables the real-time improvisation of complex harmonic and spatial movement.
After the presentations, the floor opened for a dedicated round table discussion — tackling questions about the skills and workflows required to build and innovate within generative music ecosystems and custom controller design.
