Controlled Algorithmic Cacophony (C.A.C.)

Built for music fans without theory training. This app generates algorithmic note patterns for five melodic tracks plus drums, so you can explore moods quickly and then tweak what you like.

Quick Start

• Click Generate to create a full idea and start playback.
• Use Stop to pause; Generate again to refresh the whole scene.
• Lock a Scale or Progression (L) to keep the harmony while you explore.

Randomization Buttons

• Samples: randomizes instruments across all tracks.
• Scale Progression: picks a new scale and chord progression (unless locked).
• Algorithms: randomizes algorithms, durations, and their settings.
• Track header R: randomizes that track's sample, algorithm, and duration.
• Small R buttons: randomize only a sample, algorithm, or duration. P copies one sample to every track.
• Drum tab buttons: randomize drum patterns and drum instruments.

Tabs

• Layout - plan section mutes, density, and bar counts.
• Theory - choose scale and progression; lock with L.
• Sample - shape attack and release; filter instrument names and set the chance.
• Algorithm - set a seed for repeatable patterns; tweak Random Walk, Arpeggio, Chorded, and Call and Response.
• FX - EQ for tracks and drums, global wet and room, per-track FX, plus Low/Med/High presets.
• Drum - pick drum or percussion sounds for each role and randomize patterns.
• Density - drum density and fills, track note density and distribution, ease in and out.
• Export - export or import JSON setups.

Sequencer Editing

• Click a track header to focus that sequencer; click again to return.
• Click notes to mute/unmute; Shift+click deletes; click empty space to add a note.
• - and + transpose the track by octaves; M and S mute or solo.
• Follow keeps the playhead centered while looping.

Hotkeys

• Space - generate a new idea and play.
• S - randomize the seed.
• X - apply Low FX preset.
• 1 - toggle sequencer layout.
• 2 - show or hide the control panel.

Tips

• Ionian (major) scales tend to feel familiar and pop friendly.
• Aeolian (natural minor) is moodier; Dorian adds a brighter edge.
• Lydian sounds dreamy; Phrygian leans tense or dark.
• Pentatonic scales are forgiving and work well for ambient pads.
• Short durations mean more energy; long durations make smoother pads.
• Higher Track Note Density makes busier rhythms; lower creates space.
• Track Distribution high keeps tracks aligned; low adds variation.
• More Release and Room create cinematic washes; less makes it punchy.
• Mute and solo tracks to build arrangements or check each part.
• Set a Seed to keep the melody while swapping instruments and FX.