MusicRadar

• Review
• Manufacturer's Description

There is one more voice type that's of particular interest: the Listening option. This monitors incoming MIDI data, enabling noatikl to harmonise or trigger predetermined actions accordingly .

It all looks straightforward - and even sparse - until you realise that this is but a single view. Tucked away beneath the Object/Parameter menu are a host of views pertaining to specific aspects of the program.

For instance, you can set the velocity ranges to be used for each voice, or take command of the harmonic and melodic content that will be generated. You can also edit the particular attributes of each of those Voice Types.

There are over two dozen views on offer, each with its own tools for each and every voice here. Suffice to say, the level of control is deep and extensive.

While generative music can be fun and inspiring, one of noatikl's most useful features is its ability to generate MIDI Continuous Controller data. With a little creative thinking (and a bit of patching in your host), you can use noatikl to control almost any function of any instrument or effect with a MIDI input.

In fact, you can do even more than this: Logic users, for example can tap into the Environment to tie noatikl to any available parameter: mix volumes, send levels - anything is fair game. Want to generate a dynamic, algorithmic mix of an otherwise meticulously composed piece? Here's your chance!

Speaking of host programs, noatikl is a perfectly compliant partner. You can sync it to your DAW’s tempo or even control the tempo algorithmically. Setting it up to work with your chosen program might take some doing, but intermorphic provides a good online manual and a slew of video tutorials to get you going. Standalone users may need to use a virtual MIDI router such as MIDIYoke or MidiPipe.

Summary

As we've suggested, algorithmic compositional tools can produce mixed results. While often applied to avant-garde styles, there's no reason at all why you can't use them to knock out a few ideas for your next dance smash or raw rocker. Whether you're looking for unpredictability and chaos in your music, or are simply seeking a fresh source of inspiration, that killer hook could very well spring forth from noatikl's musical stream. And of course, ambient musicians will eat it up.

We've always been fascinated by generative applications, and noatikl is one of the most comprehensive we've seen. What's more, the results were always intriguing and, more importantly, musical.

While we might not be inclined to let it write our music for us, it is a superb resource for ideas, and a sure-ire cure for writer's block. Control freaks who like to niggle over every single hi-hat hit might be put off, but those with an open mind may find noatikl to be their ideal collaborator.

Take a listen to what noatikl can do: