Native Instruments Introduces DISCOVERY SERIES: WEST AFRICA

Berlin, June 20th, 2011 – Native Instruments has just introduced 

DISCOVERY SERIES: WEST AFRICA, a new instrument that centers on the

infectious polyrhythmic grooves of traditional African music. For use in

KONTAKT 4 and in the free KONTAKT PLAYER, the instrument provides the

full sonic spectrum of a West-African percussion ensemble, and

represents a unique and highly versatile resource for film scoring as

well as contemporary pop and club music styles.

Recognising the substantial influence of traditional African grooves on

contemporary Western music, WEST AFRICA provides the typical percussion

and melody instruments of the region, combined with a versatile array of

authentic and instantly usable polyrhythmic patterns. The instrument

faithfully recreates a typical six-person percussion ensemble centered

around multiple types of Djembe and Dunun drums. This setup is

complemented by Calabash and Krin, as well as unique melodic instruments

like the Kora and Bolon harp, various Balafons, the distinctive Ngoni,

and the Fula flute. All instruments were recorded with painstaking

precision in Native Instruments' studios in Berlin, resulting in 3 GB of

studio-quality sample material.

WEST AFRICA features a specifically designed sequencer that provides

over 70 pre-programmed ensemble patterns with complex West-African

grooves, complete with solos, fills and single hits that can be

intuitively triggered via the keyboard. Patterns automatically sync to

the tempo of a host sequencer, and can be easily edited or created from

scratch using an intuitive visual interface. With advanced options to

modify the feel and intensity of the groove, a choice between heptatonic

and chromatic instrument scales, and a wide range of ensemble

configuration options, WEST AFRICA provides all necessary means to

recreate the profound sonic impact of traditional West-African music

with all its intricacies and universal appeal.

DISCOVERY SERIES: WEST AFRICA is available as a download in the NI

Online Shop for $119 / 99 EUR.

A video explaining the concept and workflow of the instrument is

available on YouTube at

Additional information on DISCOVERY SERIES: WEST AFRICA is available at

www.native-instruments.com/westafrica

A digital press kit including picture material is available at

www.native-instruments.com/press.info

About Native Instruments:

Native Instruments is a leading manufacturer of software and hardware

for computer-based music production and DJing. The company's mission is

to develop innovative, fully integrated solutions for all professions,

styles and genres. The resulting products regularly push technological

boundaries and open up new creative horizons for professionals and

amateurs alike.

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Note to editors: Press information and graphics are available for

download at

www.native-instruments.com/press.info

Press Contact:

Constantin Köhncke

Public Relations Manager

+49-30-611035-1600

constantin.koehncke@native-instruments.de

Native Instruments GmbH

Schlesische Str. 28

10997 Berlin, Germany

Native Instruments North America, Inc.

5631 Hollywood Boulevard

Los Angeles, CA 90028, USA

http://www.native-instruments.com