Synthesizer Evolution: a hand illustrated homage to the humble synth
Created by synth enthusiast Oli Freke the Synthesizer Evolution is a historical homage to 35 years of electric noise generation. It features every production synthesizer manufactured between 1960 and 1995, what could be considered the golden years of synthesis.
Synthesizer Evolution
Arranged chronologically they form a kind of city-scape of synthesizers, a skyline of synthesis, a Manhattan of musical noises. Each one meticulously hand-drawn and labelled with the key synthesis features. There are 250 synths in all:
From the Akai AK60 to the Yamaha V50, via the Formanta Polivoks and PPG Realizer – they’re all here.
Alternatively, you can select one drawing, the one synth that means something to you and have it emblazoned on a mug. They are also trying to come up with some other ways you can purchase one of Oli’s illustrations.
Of course, you have to ask why only up to 1995? That means no Roland JP-8000 or Yamaha CS1-X released in 1996. But this is a study in “classic” synthesis and you have to decide on some kind of cut-off. Maybe there’s room for a second edition which follows this up until the present day.
The poster is available white-on-black or black-on-white for £35. Mugs with a single design are either £13.50, £10.99 or £13.33 depending on where you look on the website. If you’d like one before Christmas then you need to order before the end of November. These illustrations are rather beautiful, what synth fan wouldn’t love to find one under the tree on Christmas morning?
More information
- Synth Evolution shop page.
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