In this Module Spotlight article, we delve into the intriguing world of dynamic tempos with the Cutelab Messed Up Clock Generator and Clock Stretcher module. This versatile module is designed to facilitate experimentation with shifting polyrhythms and metric modulation, allowing users to easily explore rhythmic changes without any hassle.
The Cutelab Messed Up Clock Generator and Clock Stretcher module offers a multitude of features that make it an ideal tool for controlling and manipulating tempo. One of its standout features is the ability to generate its own clock, giving you complete control over the tempo. Whether you prefer to use the tap tempo function or manually adjust the tempo, Messed Up allows for seamless tempo changes.
The module supports two modulation modes: Round Trip and One Way. In Round Trip mode, every time you jump to a new tempo, all you have to do is modulate again to slide back to where you started. This mode provides a convenient way to explore different tempos while ensuring synchronization with the external clock. On the other hand, One Way mode allows you to explore a series of tempos with each modulation, offering endless possibilities for rhythmic experimentation.
The Beat, Divide, and Truncate parameters of the Messed Up module work together to generate four different output clocks. By mixing and combining these parameters, you can create complex polyrhythms and shuffling beats. The best part is that all parameters are adjustable via control voltage, allowing for real-time manipulation and dynamic changes.
For added convenience, Messed Up allows you to store your favorite tempo combinations in up to nine presets. This feature is incredibly useful for recalling specific rhythmic patterns or arrangements during live performances or studio sessions, saving you time and effort in recreating your desired tempos.
With the Cutelab Messed Up Clock Generator and Clock Stretcher module, you have the power to explore dynamic tempos and create captivating rhythmic compositions. Whether you want to dive into polyrhythms, experiment with metric modulation, or simply add some shuffle to your beats, this module offers endless possibilities and complete control over tempo and rhythm.
Don't miss out on the opportunity to delve into dynamic tempos with the Cutelab Messed Up Clock Generator and Clock Stretcher module! Visit [Cutelab's website](https://shop.cutelab.nyc/eurorack/messed-up/) to learn more about this incredible Eurorack module and start exploring the world of rhythmic possibilities.
Example Usage
NOVICE-LEVEL USAGE EXAMPLE:
Let's say you have a simple drum sequence in your Eurorack setup, consisting of a kick drum on every quarter note and a snare drum on every second and fourth quarter note. You want to add some rhythmic variation to make it more interesting.
To achieve this, you can patch the Cutelab Messed Up Clock Generator and Clock Stretcher module into your setup. Set the clock source to an external clock, either from a sequencer or another module. Then, set the Messed Up module to Round Trip mode.
Start by setting the tempo of the external clock to 120 BPM, and adjust the Messed Up module's tempo to a slower value, let's say 90 BPM. Now, every time the external clock sends a trigger, the Messed Up module will output a trigger at the slower tempo.
Next, tweak the Beat, Divide, and Truncate parameters on the Messed Up module. Increase the Beat parameter to generate more triggers between each external clock trigger. For example, set it to 2, so that for every external clock trigger, the Messed Up module will output two triggers. Adjust the Divide parameter to create subdivisions of the original beat. Set it to 3, so that the triggers generated by the Messed Up module fall on the triplets of each beat. Finally, experiment with the Truncate parameter to shorten or lengthen the length of each trigger.
Now, when you trigger your drum sequence, you'll hear the original pattern augmented with additional triggers generated by the Messed Up module. These triggers will follow a triplet-based rhythm, changing the feel of the sequence and introducing polyrhythmic elements.
Remember, you can always play around with the various parameters, modulation modes, and presets to find the perfect combination that suits your musical taste. Have fun exploring dynamic tempos and rhythmic possibilities with the Cutelab Messed Up Clock Generator and Clock Stretcher module!
Here's an intermediate-level usage example for the Cutelab Messed Up Clock Generator and Clock Stretcher module:
Let's say you're working on a track with a steady 4/4 beat, but you want to add some subtle polyrhythmic elements to spice things up. By using the Messed Up module, you can easily achieve this.
First, patch the Messed Up module into your Eurorack setup, making sure to connect its clock output to your clock input module. Set the Messed Up module to Round Trip mode for this example.
Next, let's start by exploring a triplet-based polyrhythm. Adjust the Beat parameter on the Messed Up module to generate triplets. You can start by setting the Beat knob to the 3 o'clock position or use control voltage to modulate it dynamically. Now, when you tap the tempo or adjust it manually, the Messed Up module will create a clock that divides your original quarter notes into triplets.
To make it more interesting, let's add a touch of randomness to the polyrhythm. Patch a random source, such as a random voltage generator, into the Truncate parameter of the Messed Up module. This will introduce variations and subtle fluctuations to the polyrhythm, giving it a more organic feel.
Now that we have a triplet polyrhythm in place, let's take it a step further. Use the Divide parameter on the Messed Up module to explore different divisions of the triplet rhythm. For example, setting the Divide knob to 2 will transform your triplets into eighth notes. Adjusting it to 4 will give you sixteenth notes.
To add even more complexity, you can patch control voltage sources into the Beat and Divide parameters, allowing for dynamic modulation of the polyrhythm. Connect an LFO or an envelope generator to these CV inputs, and experiment with different waveforms and modulation depths to create evolving polyrhythms that shift and morph over time.
With the Messed Up module, you have the flexibility to experiment with a wide range of dynamic tempos and shifting polyrhythms. Feel free to store your favorite combinations of tempo, beats, and divisions in one of the nine preset slots provided by the module. This way, you can easily recall your creative polyrhythmic patterns during live performances or studio sessions.
Remember, the Messed Up module is designed to let you explore rhythmic changes without worrying about technicalities. Focus on what sounds good to you, and let the module handle the rest. Happy sonic exploration!
Further Thoughts
In this example, we'll explore how to use the Cutelab Messed Up Clock Generator and Clock Stretcher module to create evolving polyrhythmic patterns.
- Start by setting the internal clock tempo of the Messed Up module using the tap tempo or manual adjustment. You can experiment with different tempos to find the one that suits your creative vision.
- Set the module to Round Trip mode. This will allow you to jump to a new tempo and then smoothly slide back to the original tempo by modulating again at the right time.
- Connect the Messed Up module to an external clock source. This could be another sequencer or a drum machine providing a steady clock signal.
- Adjust the Beat, Divide, and Truncate parameters on the Messed Up module to generate four different output clocks. Each of these clocks represents a unique rhythmical variation of your original beat.
- Use CV control to modulate the parameters of the Messed Up module in real-time. This will introduce gradual or sudden changes to the output rhythms, creating intricate polyrhythmic patterns that evolve over time.
- Experiment with storing your favorite rhythmic combinations in one of the module's preset slots. This way, you can recall your creations at any time and build upon them in your performances or compositions.
- Consider using the Clock Stretcher feature of the Messed Up module. This allows you to stretch an externally supplied clock, opening up even more possibilities for manipulating rhythmical elements.
By following these steps and exploring the various features and modes of the Cutelab Messed Up Clock Generator and Clock Stretcher module, you'll be able to delve into the world of dynamic tempos and enjoy the exciting world of shifting polyrhythms in your eurorack system.