Fess Grandiose: Origin of Open Beats, Modular Synthesis, Overhyped Brands, WFXR, NAMM vs. Superbooth

Poducer

Welcome to another episode of Poducer, the podcast for producers! In this episode, we dive deep into the Chicago beat-making scene and the world of modular synthesis with our special guest, Fess Grandiose. Watch the video interview on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCijzViDaoVljjDXyEPTIwyQ?sub_confirmation=1 Support Us by Buying a Hat https://poducer.bigcartel.com/product/poducer-green-corduroy-ball-cap Sponsorships: QUAKE Earplugs Use code "POD15" at checkout to save 15% https://quake402.bigcartel.com/product/dub-mufs-v2 Affiliates: https://www.lalal.ai/?fp_ref=poducer Follow Fess Grandiose: https://linktr.ee/fessgrandiose https://www.instagram.com/openbeats/ Follow Poducer: https://linktr.ee/poducerpodcast Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Name Discussion 01:31 Fess Grandiose's Background and Role 02:14 Working at Reverb and Open Beats 05:13 First Concert Experiences 07:32 Musical Influences and Transition from Metal to Hip-Hop 16:04 Starting Music Production and DJing 24:17 Influence of Gear and Producers 26:13 Reverb’s Fest Picks and Favorite Gear 31:03 Roland’s Impact on Music Technology 34:51 Overhyped Brands and Behringer’s Controversies 41:53 Teenage Engineering and New Innovations 48:39 Community and Networking in the Beat Scene 52:06 Origin of Open Beats 57:24 Inclusivity and Multi-Genre Approach at Open Beats 01:01:12 Advice for Starting an Event 01:05:42 Evolution and Future of the Beat Scene 01:12:07 Impact of AI on Music Production 01:19:04 Best Stem Separators 01:21:59 Comparing Music Conferences: NAMM vs. Superbooth 01:27:28 Starting a Modular Journey 01:35:43 Boutique Brands and Pedal Comparisons 01:40:19 Unique Characteristics of Maths Module 01:44:51 Exploring Modular and Pedal Integration 01:53:06 Enhancing Sampling Through Synthesis Knowledge 01:55:13 WFXR Duo and Modular Performances 02:00:00 Improv and Live Performances 02:02:49 Most Impactful Concert Experience 02:07:46 Shoutouts and Community Support 02:11:09 Chicago Beat Scene vs. Other Cities 02:15:16 Where to Find Fess Grandiose Online 02:16:24 Closing Remarks