M&TH contains over 2GB of loops, hits, and sampled instruments in Apple Loops, REX, Reason, Kontakt, EXS24, WAV, and HALion formats. The loops are neatly organized in tempos of 125, 127, and 130bpm, which are popular enough in this genre that it minimizes the need to time-stretch.
Loops and samples are also organized by instrument type, such as drums, bass, FX, guitar, music, synth, and “top percussion.” The cherry on this sundae is that musical key info is included in the file name. If only all loop libraries were this well-organized.
The drum loops absolutely nail the minimal/tech sound, with its sparse patterns, glitchy percussion, round 808-style kicks, and tasteful effects. Better still, the grooves themselves are funky as hell, some with swing, others straight up.
The “top percussion” loops are a touch more complex, with that techie, insectoid quality that goes far beyond standard TR-808 and CR-78 fare. The sound design here includes tuned flanges and resonators, samples truncated to the point of becoming tuned clicks, and reverb used as a creative tool, not a sweetener.
The bass and music loops may sound a tad naked in places, but don’t be misled. When combined with the rhythms, they come alive. What’s more, some wonderfully warped vocal loops are far more innovative than other offerings I’ve heard, with automated effects and stutter edits galore. Finally, if you’re a commercial or video producer, the 58 combi loops are perfect fodder for new cues and awesome beds for voice-overs.
All in all, M&TH is a clear winner. Whether you’re using it for inspiration, tidbits, or full productions, this collection will keep you in the loop.
PROS
Stunning production quality and street-wise grooves.
CONS
Would be perfect if drum loops were also available as layers.
$99.95
Sample Magic,www.samplemagic.com; dist. by Big Fish Audio, www.bigfishaudio.com