ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

Aphex Twin Releases Open-Source AI Music Software Samplebrain

digital · 2026-04-27

Richard D. James, known as Aphex Twin, has released Samplebrain, an open-source software for real-time music production and mixing, created with sound engineer Dave Griffiths. Developed between 2015 and 2016 but released on September 24, 2022, the application allows users to upload and break down sounds, which are then matched with similar samples in a personal network called a "brain." This innovative approach to sampling enables manipulation of a target sound based on a source sound, rather than linear cutting and reproduction. A teaser generated by AI shows Aphex Twin morphing with synthesizers and machinery, evoking figures like Albert Einstein, Leonardo da Vinci, and Jesus. Additionally, Warp Records celebrated the 25th anniversary of the iconic single "Come To Daddy" on October 6, 2022, originally released in 1997. The track, known for its violent screams and techno-industrial rhythms, was accompanied by a music video directed by Chris Cunningham, featuring James's face superimposed on disturbing children.

Key facts

  • Samplebrain is an open-source software for music production and mixing.
  • It was created by Richard D. James (Aphex Twin) and Dave Griffiths.
  • The software was developed between 2015 and 2016.
  • It was released publicly on September 24, 2022.
  • Samplebrain is distributed for free on Gitlab.
  • The software uses a network of sound fragments to match and manipulate samples.
  • A teaser video generated by AI shows Aphex Twin transforming into historical figures.
  • Warp Records celebrated the 25th anniversary of 'Come To Daddy' on October 6, 2022.
  • The 'Come To Daddy' music video was directed by Chris Cunningham.

Entities

Artists

  • Richard D. James
  • Aphex Twin
  • Dave Griffiths
  • Chris Cunningham
  • Albert Einstein
  • Leonardo da Vinci
  • Jesus

Institutions

  • Warp Records
  • Gitlab
  • Foundation

Locations

  • Limerick
  • Ireland

Sources