> ’MIDI drums’ is a phrase that would be unthinkable in many circles. But once you embrace the idea of programming rhythms in your DAW, you’ll be tempted to use some of the great tools out there that aim to make it simpler, more creative, and even a little bit fun.
MIDI data contains a set of instructions for what an instrument – plugin, hardware, analogue or digital – should play. Given the mathematical precision of digital data, and the ability to program it in advance, plugin tools have sprung up that offer a new way to get creative with beats and rhythms. Some allow you to sequence in new ways, others help you to improve what you’ve got already, by creating variations and humanising programmed performances.