Oli Freke on Drum Machines, Vinyl, and the Joy of Cycling
As a journalist and synthesizer historian, Oli Freke has spent his career chronicling the digital and analog evolution of electronic music. Now, with the release of his visual history of drum machines, Beat Gems, he reflects on the tools, rhythms, and life philosophies that define his creative process.
Freke’s latest project, published by Bjooks, serves as a comprehensive visual exploration of drum machines, ranging from the classic Roland TR-808 to the contemporary Erica Synths Pērkons. Researching the book solidified his belief in the primacy of rhythm to human culture, a theme he has explored through his writing for outlets like Sound on Sound and Mixmag. When he is not documenting gear, he remains a dedicated user of Ableton Live, noting how far software capabilities have advanced since his early days working with an Atari ST 520.
Beyond the studio, Freke draws inspiration from a diverse range of interests, including mathematics, chess, and science. He finds focus through high-energy drum and bass sets on Rinse FM and maintains a practical outlook on creative blocks by reminding himself of the near-infinite combinations of musical ideas. Despite his deep immersion in technology, he holds a firm stance on physical experiences: he advocates for investing in a high-quality road bicycle, citing the vast performance difference compared to standard models. His recent purchase of the Resynator vinyl soundtrack further highlights his appreciation for the intersection of human history and electronic innovation.
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