Layering Buddha is based on a high-resolution audio recording of a single FM3 buddha machine player, a low-fi loop-playing device containing nine ambient loops. Due to manufacturing imperfections, each individual machine plays the loops with a slightly different sound, pitch and duration, at a low sampling rate and bit resolution. Simultaneous playback using multiples of these machines yields extremely rich, fascinating textures.

The pieces on this CD have been created by granulating, filtering, repitching and massive layering of either the original loops or new loops re-assembled out of parts of the originals. The high-resolution recording contains normally inaudible details which are revealed and sculpted by the processing. Most pieces are based on a single-source loop. They are constructed as continuously permuting structures and could theoretically go on forever, just like the loops within the buddha machines.

The limited-edition vinyl box closes the circle. After transforming the rough recordings of the original buddha machines into multi-layered, deep, spacious compositions full of sonic detail, the pieces are returned to an outdated, inferiorsounding media: the seven-inch vinyl single, which itself encourages the user to mix, layer and further process the music.
(Robert Henke)

FM 3 Buddha Machine: Christiaan Viaant / Zhang Jian