Tame Impala’s Kevin Parker Invents New Synthesizer

Kevin Parker, the creative force behind Tame Impala, has turned his focus from music production to innovative instrument development, revealing a new synthesizer called ‘Orchid.’ This cutting-edge device, developed through Parker’s newly established company Telepathic Instruments, is designed to revolutionize the way musicians conceptualize and construct chord progressions. Initially conceived by Parker over a decade ago as a personal tool for songwriting, Orchid represents a significant leap in the digital music instrument landscape, marrying traditional chord-based music theory with modern digital technology.

Orchid’s primary function is as a chord generator, akin in concept to the ‘chord mode’ feature found on many keyboards, but with advanced capabilities and practicality. It offers users an intuitive interface featuring 12 velocity-sensitive keys and three distinct synthesizer engines: a polyphonic virtual analog subtractive synth, an FM synthesizer, and a vintage reed piano emulator. These elements allow users to create diverse soundscapes without deep music theory knowledge, opening new creative paths for songwriters and producers. The inclusion of performance modes such as Strum, Slop, Arpeggiator, Pattern, and Harp further enhances its versatility, providing a hands-on approach to crafting complex, harmonically rich tracks.

Under the hood, Orchid is described as being driven by a patent-pending chord voicing engine, which stands apart by allowing real-time chord manipulation. Its innovative matrix of chord-type and modification keys can radically expand the user’s musical canvas beyond the physical limitations of its 12 keys, simulating a full-range keyboard experience. This, combined with its lightweight and portable design featuring built-in stereo speakers and a rechargeable battery, positions Orchid as an ideal companion for musicians on the go. Initial units are priced at $549 and are set for release to U.S. customers in December 2024, with a wider rollout planned for 2025.

The first limited run will provide a unique opportunity for early adopters to engage with the instrument’s development via ‘The Garden,’ an online community supported through Patreon. This interactive platform is expected to allow users to participate in shaping and refining the instrument’s features based on user experience and feedback. The entrepreneurial spirit behind Telepathic Instruments leverages community-powered iteration, a progressive approach that maps closely to Parker’s ethos of innovation in music.

Instrument design was another focal point, led by Ignacio Germade, a co-founder of Telepathic Instruments. The result is an aesthetically striking piece that maintains functionality at its core. Orchid’s design reflects a blend of futuristic elements and ergonomic considerations, providing an intuitive user experience while facilitating creative freedom. The concept is to significantly lower entry barriers for musicians, enabling them to express and materialize musical ideas effortlessly.

Parker’s venture into instrument innovation does not detract from his existing musical engagements. Although there has been no recent performance by Tame Impala since early 2023, Parker has been actively involved in high-profile collaborations and music productions, including work with Dua Lipa and on new tracks with Justice. His strategic decision to sell his music catalog to Sony ensures a lasting legacy, as well as potential financial and creative flexibility to further pursue cutting-edge projects such as Orchid.