Array M’bira

A Quick Note: If you have access to Logic’s Sampler (EXS), please use those samples rather than Kontakt or Decent Sampler. The EXS Presets have *way* more options, including the ability to use only the left or right notes (the same notes appear on both sides), velocity triggered strums, and lots of other options I never got around to implementing in the Kontakt instrument as this was my first attempt at creating a Kontakt instrument.

I first heard an Array M’bira when I saw Imogen Heap playing one. I instantly loved the sound. It’s so organic and unusual. I saved my pennies, and finally the day came when it was time to purchase one. I obsessively checked the tracking number as the package wound its way from San Francisco to me in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. I didn’t want to miss the delivery, so I had it send to the conservatory where I teach. When I arrived that day, I received a nasty surprise: someone in the postal service used the box my m’bira was in as a step stool, and the entire back was caved in, complete with a boot print. It was the sort of thing that made you sick to your stomach to look at. I know it was unintentional, but it felt really tragic that something so beautiful had been destroyed. However, I had an album deadline, so I stared recording with the damaged instrument, which still played well since the damage was to the underside. However, to make a claim at the postal service, I had to return that instrument with the packaging. So, I was stuck using sample libraries of Array M’biras to complete some of the pieces I’d started working on. Meanwhile, I ordered (and paid for) a second Array M’bira, which is the one that appears in the included sample libraries. It was even more expensive (but more beautiful) than the first one, and I was completely pleased with it when it finally arrived. The postal service took *nine months* to honor the insurance claim, but I did finally receive the check from them.