Grimes, RZA Contribute Sound Packs for Lego-Style Instrument Roli Blocks

Blocks is the latest product from Roli, a UK-based start-up specializing in easy-to-use music-making devices. Blocks consists of three wireless parts that can be connected magnetically and powered through the iOS app Noise. For the app, Roli has enlisted several musicians, including Grimes and RZA, to contribute original “sound packs” that users can incorporate into their music, Fact reports. The base Lightpad Block costs $179, with additional Live and Loop Blocks available for $79 each. Check out a video of Blocks in action below.

On the product’s website, Grimes says, “Roli Blocks will democratize music production. It’s so intuitive and versatile. I’m always on the go, and Blocks is the most powerful mobile production tool I’ve ever used.” RZA says, “If I ever have writer’s block in the studio, I reach for Blocks. It brings whole new levels of expression to my music.”

Read about Grimes’ music-making process in “Democracy of Sound: Is GarageBand Good for Music?” as well as our recent interview with RZA on the Pitch.

Watch Grimes perform “Circumambient” at Pitchfork Music Festival 2012:

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