Prototypical

An album of original music by Tim Thompson. A melodic blend of rock, new age, jazz, and algorithmic composition.

Prototypical - Front Cover Prototypical - Back Cover

All of the pieces on this album were created using KeyKit, a programming language and graphical environment for MIDI. Source code and executables are freely available for non-commercial use.

1. Autograph

Entirely performed on a Yamaha TX81Z synthesizer using its 8-note polyphony. The solo at the end is algorithmically generated.

2. Twinkle Tune

Composed for an early MMML tape, recorded with the first realtime (but no graphics) version of KeyKit, and newly orchestrated using General MIDI on a Roland SC7.

3. Fluence

Inspired by early Chicago chord progressions, utilizing multiple synthesizers including Peavey V3, Waldorf Microwave, Korg EX8000, and Roland SC7.

4. Group Effort

Created from MIDI snippets contributed by dozens of participants in a 1992 "MIDI Playgroup" project, created by using the then-newly-written multi-window interface of KeyKit.

5. State Machine

A frequently re-arranged composition. This General MIDI version should sound pretty good on any General MIDI synth, via Roland SC-7.

6. Shameless Boogie

The riff I always improvise to when relaxing at the keyboard, performed on Kurzweil 1000PX piano.

7. Caffeine-Based Life Form

A college-era piece featuring one of my favorite solo sections, combining multiple synthesizers and percussion instruments.

8. Lineage

An improvisation intro done for my father when he visited me in New Jersey, performed on Kurzweil 1000PX.

9. Hypercube

Originally four different pieces, utilizing an extensive array of synthesizers and drum machines for the final arrangement.

10. Friendly Phases

Composed for the fifth MMML tape, this General MIDI piece uses Roland SC7 and some extra reverb.

11. Stock Answer #1

Part of "The Weinstock Variations" game, using an ostinato that was algorithmically generated from the letters in "Weinstock."

12. Shadow Suite

Composed long long ago, featuring one of my favorite melodies. This General MIDI piece uses Roland SC7.

13. Stock Answer #3

The second Weinstock Variations entry, completely algorithmically generated from a KeyKit program, employing echo and arpeggio techniques.

14. Last Call

Originally an MMML tape contribution, this re-orchestrated piece combines Roland SC7, Peavey V3, Kurzweil 1000PX, and Korg EX8000.