Contemporary

For “Session Percussionist” we made a conscious departure from convention. We rejected the standard use of photographs or hyper-realistic 3D renderings. Instead, we sought to express the soul of the instruments through abstraction. This led us to a Paris-based artist, to whom we presented a simple brief: illustrate in his iconc line art style a list of the percussion instruments to be featured in the library.

Perfect match

To my great delight, the artist Mario Kolaric immersed himself completely in the challenge. He didn’t just illustrate the instruments; he interpreted them. Each artwork became a unique exploration, reflecting the physicality of an instrument: its shape and components or, more poetically, the impression the sound produced on the artist.

The result was a mesmerizing collection of abstract representations. While each piece was distinct, they were united by a consistent level of execution and a shared artistic vision. This virtual art gallery became the visual identity of the product, setting it apart with a unique and sophisticated atmosphere.

An Interface in Motion

This artistic foundation directly inspired the dynamic nature of the interface, continuing a path we began with Piano Colors. The concept is one of constant, fluid transformation. As you navigate through the presets, the artwork is not static; it reacts intelligently to the parameters you adjust.

Specifically, the visuals respond to the different types of drums loaded into the available slots. This means the user interface becomes a living canvas, its appearance shifting and evolving with your choices.

The Representation of Variety

This dynamic system creates a powerful and immediate impression for the user. Because the UI looks different for every preset, you gain a tangible sense of the immense variety contained within the library simply by browsing. It transforms the act of preset selection from a mechanical task into an exploratory experience.

The final product exists in a unique space, straddling the line between the utilitarian and the artistic. It’s a tool for creation, but one that constantly reminds you of the artistry at its core, gently pushing the boundaries of what a sample library interface can be.