Kirnu Interactive Cream is a versatile MIDI performer plugin designed for both live and studio use. This powerful tool goes beyond traditional arpeggiators and sequencers, offering a unique approach to MIDI manipulation and performance. Cream features four independent tracks, each capable of driving individual MIDI instruments with up to 12 patterns. The plugin’s interface is divided into several sections, including global controls, track settings, and pattern data screens. Users can create complex MIDI sequences by adjusting parameters such as note order, chord memory, step length, gate, accent, transposition, and more. Cream’s flexibility allows for the creation of intricate lead parts, dynamic bass lines, and rhythmic drum patterns. The plugin’s design aims to balance ease of use with depth, allowing users to quickly create engaging performances while also providing extensive customization options for those who want to delve deeper. Compatible with both Windows and Mac systems, Cream supports 32-bit and 64-bit architectures, making it accessible to a wide range of music producers and performers.
Pros:
• Highly flexible MIDI performance capabilities with four independent tracks
• Intuitive interface that balances simplicity with depth
• Extensive pattern manipulation options for creating complex sequences
Cons:
• Steep learning curve for users unfamiliar with advanced MIDI processing
Kirnu Interactive Cream boasts an impressive array of features that set it apart from traditional MIDI tools. At its core are the four independent tracks, each capable of controlling separate MIDI instruments. These tracks can host up to 12 patterns, providing ample room for variation and complexity within a single instance of the plugin. The pattern data screens are where much of Cream’s power lies, offering granular control over various aspects of MIDI performance.
The Order screen allows users to determine which notes are played and in what sequence, with options including previous, last, first, high, low, and random. This flexibility enables the creation of evolving melodic patterns that go beyond simple arpeggiation. The Chordmem feature provides 16 chord memory slots, each capable of storing up to 8 notes, allowing for complex harmonic progressions and instant chord recall.
Cream’s Length and Gate controls work in tandem to shape the rhythm and feel of patterns. Length multiplies the note durations of steps, while Gate sets individual note lengths, enabling everything from staccato rhythms to flowing legato lines. The Accent feature adjusts note velocity, adding dynamic variation to patterns, while the Transpose function allows for pitch shifting in semitones or within a chosen scale.
The Div screen enables note division, splitting single notes into multiple shorter ones, which is particularly useful for creating intricate rhythmic patterns. The Shift function allows for the horizontal displacement of notes, adding syncopation and rhythmic interest. The Seq screen provides control over which notes from a held chord are played in each step, offering yet another layer of melodic variation.
In addition to these core features, Cream includes 8 MIDI CC slots that can be assigned and controlled via MIDI learn, expanding the plugin’s capabilities to include parameter modulation of external instruments and effects. The plugin also offers comprehensive randomization options, allowing users to quickly generate new ideas or add variation to existing patterns.
Cream’s global controls provide overarching management of the plugin’s behavior, including scale selection, pattern switching behavior, and restart options. The ability to assign different note ranges and MIDI channels to each track enables multi-timbral performances and complex layering of sounds.
When compared to similar plugins, Cream stands out for its combination of depth and usability. While tools like Cthulhu by Xfer Records offer powerful chord and arpeggiator functions, Cream’s multi-track approach and extensive pattern manipulation options provide a broader palette for MIDI performance. Blue Cat’s Plug’n Script offers similar flexibility but requires programming knowledge, whereas Cream presents its features in a more accessible interface. Compared to traditional arpeggiators found in many DAWs, Cream offers significantly more control and creative possibilities, albeit with a steeper learning curve. Its closest competitor might be Sugar Bytes’ Thesys, which also offers advanced MIDI sequencing, but Cream’s unique approach to pattern generation and manipulation sets it apart.
This plugin is best for:
• Electronic music producers seeking advanced MIDI performance tools
• Live performers looking for a flexible, real-time MIDI manipulation solution
• Composers wanting to generate complex melodic and rhythmic ideas quickly
• Sound designers interested in creating evolving, multi-layered MIDI sequences
Kirnu Interactive Cream represents a powerful addition to any electronic musician’s toolkit. Its unique approach to MIDI performance and sequencing offers a level of control and creativity that goes beyond traditional arpeggiators and sequencers. The plugin’s ability to generate complex, evolving patterns across multiple tracks makes it an invaluable tool for both studio production and live performance. While the learning curve may be steep for some users, the potential for creating intricate, dynamic MIDI sequences is immense. Cream’s balance of intuitive design and deep functionality allows users to quickly achieve results while also providing room for extensive experimentation and refinement. For those willing to invest the time in mastering its features, Cream can become a central part of their music production workflow, offering new avenues for melodic and rhythmic exploration. Whether used for generating ideas, crafting complex arrangements, or adding dynamic elements to live performances, Kirnu Interactive Cream proves to be a versatile and powerful MIDI tool that can significantly enhance a musician’s creative possibilities.