[Update: This article has been continued with Part 2 & Part 3]

Out of the gate with the first blog post of the new year, and this is one I'm particularly excited about because it gets me to the point of starting to hack things that make cool sounds. I've long had an interest in experimental electronic music, so I'm excited that I have something to share in that arena.

In the past I've mentioned my wonderful wife (who is wonderful, if I didn't say so), and this Christmas she doubly earned that distinction by buying me a Gakken SX-150 Analog Synthesizer. As far as a 'kit' goes, it isn't much to speak of -- just installing the pre-built board* and speaker into the plastic case and wiring up the stylus controller -- but it is such a simple design that it seems built to be hacked on, and that's what I wanted to do.

I did find a number of cool SX-150 hacks, but often they were a bit more advanced than I'm ready for, so I figured I'd start with something simple and slowly build on it and make this a multi-part project. Since I'm really enjoying getting into Arduino programming, an Arduino-based sequencer seemed like a good candidate -- so let's get started with part 1!

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Recently I found myself watching the Zero Punctuation review of the Orange Box, and specifically for Portal. I don't really need to add my accolades to the pile that was heaped on to this game. Game of the year, most innovative game, blackest humor of the year, etc.

Anyway, watching the review, I was encouraged to go play it again. it's just a short game, taking only 3 1/2 hours or so, especially the second time through. And, after a really fantastic boss battle at the end, up came the song. That wonderful song. It stuck in my head for weeks after playing the first time. And now it's wedged back in there tight as ever.

So, I present to you, "Still Alive":

I'm not a huge fan of reality tv, but I do watch "Last Comic Standing", and one act still comes back to me even several months later...

Paul Bates and Doug Morency are Rufus & Cecil Williamson, together they are The Williamson Playboys, the world's oldest father-and-son Cajun music duo.

Watching Saturday Night Live last week I was blown away by Duffy who performed "Stepping Stone". I love throwback to Dusty Springfield, the langorous rhythm, the little hit of vibes hiding behind her voice, just the whole package.

Watch the video.