Fess Grandiose

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