Incredible chimes / an outstanding arrangement  !

oo Lovely nuanced masterpiece. The finest.

your sound is always a little trip to something - great!

I've got a lot to share with you all, and I’m done waiting for Sven.

Lately, I’ve been making progress in refining my musical skills, though I'm still on this journey of continuous learning.

If you listen to this playlist, you’ll see how far I’ve come. In the beginning, with tracks like “MAYDAY, MAYDAY” and “PTSD,” my melodies were a bit rough around the edges. But as you explore “Stoic Thought Machine,” you’ll notice a significant leap forward.

My wife often says I’ve been on fire creatively lately, and that’s when BrainStorm 2.0 kicked off.

We’ve upgraded our approach to include a broader collaboration beyond just the dynamic Sven and I shared. Moving forward, I’ll have the chance to work with more amazing folks.

Or maybe not. Who knows what new paths I’ll find…

after all, the sky is mine to explore.

BrainStorm Operations 2.0 :

This should be on Cerulean Ascent's page, but his PC just died and he might've lost his output for the past 18 months... He's really pissed off 😪 but shoulda backed up that hard drive!? New PC on order, apparently. He'll be back soon.

Dub Breaks IV [Cerulean Ascent]

miss you (remx)

My favorite deep melodic techno vibes selected for Lifted Label GirlsNight annual event.

TRACKLIST:
00:00 | Maceo Plex - Conjure Dreams
06:00 | Gus (MT) & Mika MT - Curse
11:20 | Unseen. & Goldspek - Love Temple (Sassa Remix)
15:50 | Dosem - Tunnelfast
20:25 | Sly Faux - Emerald Exchange
25:55 | NEM3SI$ - Life
31:30 | Daniel Lesden & Enlusion - Dark Entity (Fuenka Remix)
36:25 | Pico Boulevard - Society
43:05 | Layton Giordani - Rabbit Hole
46:55 | Pablo Anon - Andromeda (2022 Remake)
51:45 | Achilles & Lister - Sic Mundus
55:20 | Fatum - Her Love
------

Selected & mixed with ♥ by @karinadeleau
Enjoy

Lifted Label GirlsNight 2023 Mix

In the garden of illusions, flowers bloom,
Petals brushed by the soft breath of the moon.
Each dream, a delicate, ephemeral flower,
Blossoming in the ephemeral midnight hour.

Oneiric landscapes painted with starlight,
A canvas of the mind, where shadows take flight.
In the tapestry of dreams, we softly sway,
Lost in the dance until the break of day.

Oneiric

**Chapter 1: The Journey Begins - A Blue Night: A Harmonious Duet**  
On a serene and magical blue night, a beautiful melody known as "Saga" floated through the air. Its enchanting tune had the power to whisk listeners away into a space of calm and introspection, all under a canopy of twinkling stars. And to top it off, Saga has a sister whose beauty is equally enchanting.

Fun fact: That distinctive "racketball snare sound" that emerges midway through Saga's music was crafted by Nigel Stanford. His unique touch has made a lasting mark on the music world.
https://soundcloud.com/nigelstanford/2-06-the-edge?si=2f1557e3caa24dbeb9578ef44db7eaaf&utm_source=clipboard&utm_medium=text&utm_campaign=social_sharing

Bluenight - Part I - Saga: Final Remaster

You're part of a creative team, collaborating to craft something extraordinary, something that stretches boundaries and invites new perspectives.

Then there's Keith.

A team member whose offbeat ideas often surprise everyone. He doesn't just bring quirky concepts to the table; he also takes charge of various tasks. 

Initially, his unconventional approach to the beat raises some eyebrows, but it ultimately turns out to be a turning point for the project. It transforms over time into the "spiritual shuffle" he called it. 

As the music evolves, the bass aligns perfectly with Keith's innovative vision, validating the path the team has chosen.

Despite some lingering doubts, Keith demonstrates how vital the drummers can be in shaping the overall vibe of the composition. His unique approach injects a captivating energy that captures everyone's interest.

At one moment, Keith makes the bold decision to drop the beat altogether, opting instead for percussion accents and subtle rhythmic hints. This daring choice showcases his willingness to defy convention.

Thanks to his ingenuity and determination, the track titled “Nag Champa” emerges as something truly unique and groundbreaking.

This experience underscores the power of thinking beyond the ordinary to achieve remarkable artistic outcomes.
___  
The song “Nag Champa” draws its inspiration from the famous incense of the same name, which was actually burning while the team was creating the piece. This added an atmospheric, sensory element to the song’s development. 

The name is significant, as Nag Champa incense is loved for its enticing scent that can transport you to a serene and thoughtful place. Similarly, the song "Nag Champa" aims to take listeners on a journey, evoking feelings of elevation and exploration in a unique musical space.

Nag Champa - Final Remaster

Influenced by the stunning duo: https://soundcloud.com/carbon-based-lifeforms

Now on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/album/7LKgB4v4Wrqb80HrG0D2gi?si=R1LmOp7tTZ6uXKqYavtxIA

From the start, "Ailerons" takes listeners on an exciting journey with distinct phases and sudden shifts. Like ailerons on an airplane, this composition skillfully navigates through varied soundscapes, providing a dynamic auditory experience.

The arrangement reflects the fluidity of flight, shifting between calm moments and powerful peaks. "Ailerons" introduces surprising changes while maintaining a steady path, keeping the listener engaged.

At times, the music flows smoothly through tranquil sections, evoking a sense of weightlessness. Ethereal synth pads and atmospheric drones create a vast soundscape, making listeners feel like they are floating among the stars.

Yet, like a sudden gust of wind altering an airplane's path, the composition swiftly elevates listeners toward thrilling heights, mimicking the excitement of ascent and descent.

These abrupt shifts symbolize the thrill and unpredictability of exploration. Just as ailerons guide an aircraft, the music takes listeners on unexpected turns, fostering a sense of adventure and expanding their auditory experience.

The sections of "Ailerons" mirror the dynamics of a cosmic journey, each unfolding with purpose. From the gentle start that signals a rise before descent to a calming conclusion, the piece embodies discovery, evolution, and reflection.

Overall, "Ailerons" captures distinct phases and shifts, reflecting the dynamics of flight. It invites listeners to embrace the unexpected, sync with its rhythm, and embark on a transcendent journey beyond conventional listening experiences, much like an aircraft navigating to a safe landing.

__________________Behind the song_____________:

Listen in for the "real" hi-hats, here and there...usually to shift through the sub-divisions. Recorded on 14" Zultan Q series hats.

Ailerons

to breathe

The rhythmic patterns of the drums are notably influenced by the musical artistry of Sleep Token. (Sleep Token Influenced Drums-STID) As I immersed myself in the intricate compositions of II, I carefully observed his distinct approach to sound.

II's drumming style is characterized by his creative application of rudiments and rhythmic techniques. He masterfully integrates these elements into both fills and grooves, adding depth and complexity to Sleep Token's music.

Six-Stroke Roll: II doesn't just use the six-stroke roll (RRLLRL or LLRR LR) as a simple fill. He weaves it into the fabric of his grooves, creating a dynamic interplay between dense and open sounds. Whether played softly for a ghost note effect or accented for a powerful surge, the six-stroke roll contributes to the music's forward momentum and subtle rhythmic shifts. You can hear this in moments where the drumming feels both intricate and driving.

Triplets: Triplets are essential to II's fluid and often syncopated feel. He uses them in a variety of ways: rapid fills that inject bursts of energy, complex hi-hat patterns that contribute to a "Jungle" or broken beat vibe, and subtle groove variations that create a sense of swing or push. The contrast between straight eighth/sixteenth notes and triplets adds rhythmic tension and release, keeping the listener engaged.

Quads (Four-Note Groupings): II's precise execution of four-note patterns, whether as sixteenth notes or other variations, contributes to the tightness and complexity of the Djent-influenced sections. These patterns appear as powerful, syncopated kick drum patterns, rapid snare fills, or intricate combinations across the kit. His ability to maintain clarity and power, even at high tempos, is a testament to his technical skill.

What sets II apart is his seamless integration of these rudiments with electronic elements. For example, a rapid triplet fill on the acoustic kit might be mirrored or punctuated by a synthesized sound from a Strike Pad, creating a unique sonic texture that blurs the lines between organic and electronic sounds. 

Drawing inspiration from those observations, I incorporated his distinctive elements into this uncomplicated, yet undeniably engaging beat that captures attention and evokes emotion.

STID

As I continue to create the simple yet deeply meaningful loops on my Alesis Strike Pad Pro, I'm on track to make my studio recording dreams a reality by Fall 2025.

In this latest piece, I'm excited to share another composition that draws inspiration from the unique sound of Sleep Token (STID). This creation has been carefully crafted over the past few weeks, with each line played thoughtfully on the Alesis Strike Pro. Like my previous piece, II, this one also has its own distinctive charm.

I truly hope you enjoy this work. If you’re curious about what I’ve learned from II, here are a few insights:

**The Gospel Influence:** One of the standout elements of II's drumming is its gospel-inspired flair. The use of ghost notes, intricate hi-hat patterns, and the emotional depth of his performance inject a soulful quality that enhances the music’s impact. It's more than just technical skill; there’s an emotional weight that resonates through the music. If you listen closely to tracks like "The Offering" or "Higher," you can almost feel the heartbeat of a church rhythm section supporting the heavier sounds.

**The Djent Foundation:** This is the backbone of much of Sleep Token's music, and II skillfully navigates its complex, syncopated rhythms with remarkable precision. His driving patterns and often dissonant polyrhythms create that signature hypnotic sound. He locks in perfectly with the guitars, contributing to a rhythmic structure that’s both powerful and nuanced.

**The Unique Blend of Jungle and Future Garage:** Here, II truly pushes the boundaries of modern drumming. By integrating broken beats and delicate ghost note patterns reminiscent of Jungle, along with atmospheric textures that evoke Future Garage, he adds a level of sophistication rarely heard in this genre. It’s not just about layering these elements; it’s about weaving them into a fluid rhythm. His use of space and silence, along with unexpected groove shifts, often reflects the dynamic nature of these electronic styles.

**The Thoughtful Integration of Electronics and the Strike Pad:** As a fan of the Strike Pad myself, I recognize its potential to enrich the sound. However, II has taken it a step further by incorporating electronic textures and percussive elements into the very core of his playing. These sounds blend beautifully with his acoustic kit, creating a dialogue between organic and synthetic sounds that adds layers of complexity and atmosphere that a traditional drum kit alone couldn’t provide. It’s a rich tapestry of sound that enhances the essence of Sleep Token.

What truly sets II apart isn't just his technical prowess across various styles but his ability to weave them together into a cohesive and distinctive voice. His musicality shines through in how rhythm can evoke emotion and atmosphere. He isn't merely keeping time; he’s actively shaping the emotional landscape of Sleep Token’s music.

It’s incredibly exciting to witness a drummer innovating in heavy music. II’s creative approach is a key part of what makes Sleep Token captivating and why they resonate deeply with musicians and fans alike

ESPECIALLY with me.

STID II

Until the tape runs out on me....

Join us as we embrace these moments of pause, stepping away from the relentless pace of everyday life... This is the rhythm that fuels our journey.

This transformation will reveal itself around the midpoint of the song, leading the listener toward a renewed experience in time. It won’t take much of a wait; anticipate a seamless shift before the composition reaches its conclusion.

At the 2:13 mark, my concept takes a descent, signaled by the pounding sound of the bass drum flams. To be truthfully candid, I find myself lacking complete satisfaction with how it stands at this moment, So I stopped "the tape."

Chilltrap (STID III and final in series)

Amazing music by BrainStorm Operations:
https://soundcloud.com/brainstorm-operations 

Listen to the original track, "Drum n Space", here:
https://soundcloud.com/keithondrums/drum-n-space

Vocals, Lyrics and Experimental Mix by Wildsilences.
Based on my "Out to Sea" EP on Bandcamp:
https://wildsilences.bandcamp.com/album/out-to-sea

Stunning cover art by my friend, Utopia Fade:
https://soundcloud.com/utopiafade

Lyrics:

I lost you
In the dark
Searched for days
Left no soul unturned
We searched for your ghost
Voices unheard of
Searched for your song
The love gone
Searched for your broken dreams
Searched for your words
Spirit unseen
Lost, lost, lost again
Like a ghost

Ghost (with music by BrainStorm Operations)

Amazing music by BrainStorm Operations:
@brainstorm-operations

Listen to the original track, "Drum n Space", here:
https://soundcloud.com/keithondrums/drum-n-space

Vocals, Lyrics and Experimental Mix by Wildsilences.
Based on my "Out to Sea" EP on Bandcamp:
https://wildsilences.bandcamp.com/album/out-to-sea

Stunning cover art by my friend, Utopia Fade:
@utopiafade

Lyrics:
We searched for your ghost
I lost you in the dark
Lost, lost 
I lost you in the dark
We searched for your ghost
Voices unheard of
Searched for your song
I lost you in the dark
Like a ghost
Like a shadow

Ghost (with music by BrainStorm Operations) [Ambient Depth Mix]

dernier cri - un

Music inspired by the dystopian futures of Blade Runner, I Robot and all the wonderful Science Fiction of the Past and Future.

NEXUS: THE DOMES

through the leaves

Welcome to the BrainStorm Experience, where the enchanting realms of music and storytelling unite for an unforgettable adventure. More than just a collection of songs, each track holds a story waiting to be uncovered, inviting you to delve deeper than mere listening and connect with the emotions and narratives intricately woven into every melody. To enrich your journey, we provide insightful notes and timestamps, your guides to discovering the very essence of each composition.

Our vision extends beyond the auditory. We've created a stunning visual experience, transforming your mobile device into a vibrant gallery. As you explore the tracks, each image serves as a companion to the music, encouraging reflection and sparking inspiration.

To further enhance this immersive experience, we gently suggest the use of headphones. While not a necessity, a quality pair can profoundly transform your engagement with the music, revealing subtle details and layers that might otherwise be missed, crafting a rich tapestry of sound that invites a state of blissful relaxation.

At BrainStorm Operations, our core goal is to offer a peaceful escape from the demands of everyday life. With over ten and a half hours of carefully curated content, we aim to provide a seamless journey that helps you unwind and find solace from your daily routine.

As we embark on this magical adventure together, I want to express my sincere gratitude for your support of our vision. Sharing this musical exploration with you is a true privilege. So, please take a moment to settle in, surrender to the rhythms, and enjoy the fluid experience we've crafted just for you. Thank you for being such a valued part of the BrainStorm community.

Warm regards from the flightdeck,

Keith Alban, (and formerly Sven Klitsch)
*Disclaimer*  

I must acknowledge the fantastic source of my artwork: Desktopography - desktopography.net/. I am also a part of three art collectives: Desktopography, depthCORE, and EvokeONE, where I have served as the music director.  

I have been fortunate enough to use their incredible works in this format. The heart of this experience lies in the stunning artwork contributed by the talented artists from all three collectives, lending a unique charm and beauty to the BrainStorm visual treasure.

Ailerons

BrainStorm Operations

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