HTML5 Audio Visualization for Illuminator Console

Posted on November 26, 2010 by John C.S. Keston

Recently I have been investigating some of the new capabilities of web browsers that support HTML5 and include JavaScript enabled audio APIs. This video excerpt above is a screen capture of an audio visualization that I produced with Processing.js, HTML5 and the Audio Data API that’s built into Firefox 4 Beta. The audio analysis is based on code from this example by Corbin Brook.

Circles are drawn that vary in size dynamically based on the amplitude of the music. The track is Illuminator Console by Ostraka (John Keston) from the album Precambrian Resonance on Unearthed Music. This application will only work in Firefox 4 Beta. To view the full visualization visit the following link:

HTML5 Audio Visualization for Illuminator Console

Keston and Westdal with Graham O’Brien at Galactic Soul Lounge

Posted on November 24, 2010 by John C.S. Keston

Hosted by Toki Wright, Galactic Soul Lounge is happening tonight. Artists include St. Paul Slim who is celebrating the re-release of his album “Baldheaded Samsun” on Soul Tools Records, Keston and Westdal with Graham O’Brien on drums, VOC Women’s Division performing African Dance, and Radio Pocho (Miguel Vargas & Steven Renderos) DJ’ing a dedication mix to Janet Jackson.

Galactic Soul Lounge is a monthly night of Funk, Hip Hop, Reggae, R&B, Soul, Latin, Dance, and much more. The event is 21+ and a bargain at $5 cover. Please join us at 10pm tonight, November 24, 2010, at Cause (formerly Sauce) Spirit and Sound Bar, 3001 Lyndale Avenue South, Minneapolis, Minnesota.

Electric Independence: Oneohtrix Point Never

Posted on November 16, 2010 by John C.S. Keston

I just checked out the latest episode of Motherboard‘s series, Electric Independence, on synthesist Oneohtrix Point Never. I have no argument against his return to the rich tone of instruments like the Roland Juno-60. Just have a listen to some of his work and check the interview above.

Bicycle Family by Ten72

Posted on October 29, 2010 by John C.S. Keston

Nils Westdal has been quietly toiling on his third ten72 effort, Bicycle Family, for four long years. And finally it has reached his meticulous standards for release. The compositions produced in this collection glisten with polish yet grate with a filthy grit in all the right places. As with all Unearthed Music releases, every single track is playable in full on the releases page. So, listen for free, or support independent music by purchasing the album either directly from UEM, iTunes, or your e-distributor of choice. Here’s one of my favorite downtempo masterpieces from the album, Water Color Dream.

Graham O’Brien CFCs Video Featuring Alicia Wiley and Eric Blair

Posted on October 25, 2010 by John C.S. Keston

ACB contributor, friend, and collaborator Graham O’Brien recently released an excellent solo album titled Live Drums available November 27, 2010 on NOECHO Records. On it he collaborates with a variety of artists, including the piece titled CFCs with Alicia Wiley and Eric Blair of No Bird Sing. This stop-motion animated video featuring the track was made entirely by 15 year old Malone Mischke. What is entirely surprising to me about the video is the artistic maturity, sensibility and confidence of the imagery paired with the music. Congratulations to, Graham, Alicia, Blair, and Malone!