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 piece was inspired by taking a walk during a snowfall. You hear wind and you might also hear the quiet sound of snowflakes falling, but snow tames down most other sounds. That creates a peaceful and dreamlike feeling.

Snowflakes

https://open.spotify.com/album/3WklSKhaT3QpPbj9fDlg18?si=konsNYfdREaJNsUuUyXXgA

In this captivating tale, we meet Marcus, a reflective philosopher, and Keith, a spirited musician. Their adventure underscores the profound impact our mindset can have on our lives and how we can channel our struggles into creative expression, a lesson rooted in Stoic principles.

Marcus, embodying the wisdom of Stoicism, empathizes with Keith’s challenges and offers him heartfelt encouragement. He sees the remarkable potential within everyone and believes that by navigating our inner conflicts and harnessing that energy, we can craft something truly beautiful and significant.

The idea of the BrainStorm Switch represents the quest for self-awareness and artistic expression. It suggests that even in the midst of mental chaos, there is a wellspring of creative brilliance just waiting to be discovered.

Motivated by this notion, Keith’s imagination ignites as he pictures how the switch works. He believes that by flipping it, he can unleash his inner storm and compose a symphony that captures his most profound emotions.

His musical piece, "Stoic Thought Machine Chapter III," becomes a powerful representation of how embracing our challenges can lead to transformation. Through his melodies, Keith shares his journey of self-discovery and resilience, resonating deeply with anyone who hears it and highlighting our shared human experience.

In creating this piece, Keith discovers both solace and purpose, aided by Marcus’s wisdom and the inspiration of the BrainStorm Switch. His composition serves as a hopeful anthem for those confronting life’s difficulties, reminding them that their own struggles can foster growth and creative expression.

"Stoic Thought Machine Chapter III" transcends mere music; it’s a timeless work that underscores the deep connections between hardship, creativity, and the human spirit. It shines as a beacon of hope, encouraging others to draw strength and comfort from their artistic endeavors.

Ultimately, the BrainStorm Switch and Keith’s composition illustrate the profound relationship between art, the human spirit, and Stoic philosophy, which teaches us to reshape our perceptions. They remind us that through creativity and reflection, we can turn adversity into powerful expressions and find meaning amid life’s tempests.

Stoic Thought Maschine Closing Chapter

Building Strategies

I played this song on the piano when I was learning, about 10 years ago now that I think of it. It was in an exercise book, which I still have copies of its pages. Strangely, no author is listed, and I tried looking them up with no luck. Maybe it's a folk song, who knows.

†ॐ

Music composed by ???
Arrangement by Thomas O'Higgins Horna
Produced at Kolima Forest Studios.

Cover photo: Detail from "Femme faisant du crochet" (1908), by Lucie Cousturier. Taken at Musée d’Orsay, Paris. Juillet, 2019.


canción francesa antigua

Tranquility


Cast of Characters:

~Mark F-- @mark_f_2019 -- Ibanez EBH1005MS modified three string bass guitar, composition

Llanpsych -- @llanpsych -- Tez – Gibson Les Paul electric guitar end solo, production, and mix

TexMex Shaman–@texmex-shaman –Stephen– Fender Telecaster foundational rhythm electric guitar

J.J. Terrell–@j-j-terrell – organ and synth

Cgmaness – @user-419254289-15129531 – Chris – electric guitar

K2 and the Three [and the Four]--@k2andthe3, @k2-kara -–Ken–drums, percussion, lyrics, and main vocals

Entheogenic Psychonaught (Josh Clary)–@josh-clary-1 –- PRS SE semi hollow body wah guitar, and ooh aah vocals at the end

This song began as a bass composition recorded as a stem by Mark. He named it after a hang out spot he and his friends used to go to as teenagers to drink beer and smoke bowls. He shared it with JJ, who turned it over to the Eclectic Collective so that we could have our way with it. However, Mark didn't use a click track to record it, so when he sent it to us, Ken had to come up with a drum beat based on Mark's structure, to which Mark then redid his bass part. That takes a lot of imagination on Ken's part when we do something that way.
    The first one of us to lay down a part for it was Chris, who added some really freaky textural guitar. Ken was next up, completing the rhythm section with his mighty drums. Ken then redid his part to better match the bass, thus completing the rhythm section with his mighty drums. Then, Stephen laid down the gritty, underlying rhythm guitar that runs throughout. Josh was up next, adding his melodic wah guitar to the mix. JJ came along soon after and laid down the magical synth that runs throughout. Last, but not least. Tez dropped the fiery solo towards the end. 
  Once the music was all laid down, we thought it could use some vocals. So, Ken jumped in, singing the lyrics he'd written for it. He also thought it could use some oohs and aahs at the end, so Josh recorded them as a five part harmony. However, choosing to only use the highest thee parts in the song, our expert producer on this one, Tez, decided to make a coda out of all five. So, stick around for a treat at the end!
  This is the third song the Eclectic Collective has done as a collab with Mark F. He's a very talented solo bassist, whose other music worth checking out on his page, as well. We hope you enjoy listening to this song as much as we enjoyed creating it. 
Original lyrics by K2 and the Three:

Be one of us
Be one with us
Be one of us
Be one of us 

Strangers to this town
You know we’re all around 
Away from home… Away from home

Get on the bus
Get on the bus!
Be One with us
Be one of us

She puts on her Sunday dress
I must confess
It’s all on me, here
It’s all on me, yeah

Away… here
Away… here

At Pryer Manor
Our dull Nirvana 
At Pryer Manor..,

Woo!..yeah!!!

Pryor Manor - Eclectic Collective w/ Mark F

A fun melodic power groove, with lots of layers to unwrap and fall into the beat. 

Flow State

Bonjour à tous, 🎹

Voici ma toute nouvelle composition pour piano.
J'interprète au piano "Impertinente".

Ecrit en janvier et février 2025, enregistré le 3 février 2025.

Bonne écoute.

Lien YouTube pour écouter également : https://youtu.be/QcF1o08Umoo

Impertinente – Original emotional Piano

Dreaming Of You

a huge thanks to my amazing friend @chicago_word_brigade for downloading my music over the years and gifting them back to me after my pc crashed a few years ago and i lost a lot of my original music. i really appreciate you, Charlie, and i am very blessed to have a friend and fan like you! X

please checkout his Amnesia Motel podcast episode 149 featuring my songs:
https://www.literateape.com/amnesia-motel/2025/2/5/ykde8diz9wzuj99rsp55cz4mf4phj2

also checkout his Amnesia Motel podcast episode 147 featuring Chicago Word Brigade remixes of my songs:
https://www.literateape.com/amnesia-motel/2025/1/22/k1chfwmugu3nhxe1nb7aldc6l646vr

"far beyond a stolen island
beyond a burning sun
i'm finding my way home

the sky never seems to get lonely
never seems to crave
this silences wrapped in tears

Light burst in the darkness
an echo of black breaking the waves
taking the saved to open their eyes

take me home
home to You"

Written, Performed and Produced by Wildsilences

Island (the Silhouette version)

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]

Dream Dance

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.

Stoic Thought Maschine Closing Chapter

BrainStorm Operations

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