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
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SY06WJEj1Us
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
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