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80s Synthwave Instrumental – Roland Gaia SH-01 & Ambient Guitar

Posted on November 9, 2026 by BandOfOne

Channeling some 80’s OST vibes here – maybe some Terminator influence? 

I programmed an inspiring sound on the Roland Gaia SH-01 and this song just sort of flowed out. Nothing fancy but it’s pushing the limits of my skills on this instrument! It took quite a few takes to get the main part down without any glaring errors (still plenty of subtle ones!) 

I kept the guitar part simple just to reinforce the synth lines and fill out the sound. I love the sound of my fingers squeaking on the strings that’s been magnified by the echo and reverb… So MOODY 😡

Ok, the SH-01 synth isn’t analog but I’m SO happy I went with something that does not require a computer to control. Just having physical settings to mess around with is far more satisfying and creatively exciting. Midi is great for some things but this is WAY more fun! 

Check out the rest of the jams HERE

Midnight Synth Sessions | First Jam on Roland Gaia SH-01

Posted on October 23, 2026 by BandOfOne

I finally pulled the trigger on a secondhand Roland Gaia SH-01 from FB Marketplace. It wasn’t originally on my radar, but as soon as I saw it, I realized it was exactly the tactile experience I was looking for.

In this video, I’m diving straight in—no manuals, no menus, just exploring the sliders and seeing what I can get done.

What I’ve learned so far:

  • Tactile Workflow: Zero menu-diving makes sound design feel like play rather than programming.
  • The Presets: Not great. But building patches from scratch is where the magic happens.
  • Potential: There is a lot under the hood here to explore.

This is a raw, first-take jam while I find my feet. If you’re a Gaia owner or a synth beginner, let’s swap tips in the comments!

Like this? Check out my solo album here: https://bof1.bandcamp.com/album/tone-quest

On The Drawing Desk

Posted on October 15, 2026 by BandOfOne

Comics are back on the drawing desk for the first time in maybe three years. I knew I needed a break from the medium, but I definitely didn’t expect it to last quite that long.

I’ve got a few unfinished projects that have been sitting dormant, but this Gallivant story was already written, pencilled, and had maybe the first page of the five-page story inked. It felt like the ideal candidate for a low-barrier-to-entry jump back into the comic-making groove.

I’ll be sharing the story here soon. And who knows, perhaps finishing it will spark a few more.

Plus, I recently read all the existing Gallivant comics on the site to my son, and he absolutely loved them—nearly wet himself laughing. He told me I have to make loads more, so that kind of domestic pressure is a pretty great motivator! 😅