Bjooks to launch Beat Gems Kickstarter

New drum machine book campaign incoming

Bjooks have announced that during Superbooth 2026, they will be launching a Kickstarter campaign to fund the production of their latest book. Written by Oli Freke, Beat Gems will offer an in-depth exploration of the sounds, circuits and culture of drum machines and their profound influence on modern music .

The new arrival will cover over 60 iconic and lesser-known machines, examining their design, technology and cultural context, and revealing how they helped to shape genres ranging from early electronic pop to hip-hop, house and techno. Each featured machine will be presented through detailed photography and thoughtful commentary, highlighting its origins, interface design and musical significance.

Legendary models such as the Roland TR-808, Linn LM-1, Oberheim DMX and Akai MPC60 will be present, alongside some overlooked and unconventional devices that display some unexpected innovations and creative approaches.

Highlights

Exploration of over 60 vintage drum machines, from iconic classics to rare discoveries.

High-resolution photography showcasing design, interface and craftsmanship.

In-depth storytelling on the evolution of electronic rhythm and music technology.

Cultural context linking drum machines to genre creation and artistic innovation.

Accessible insights for both dedicated enthusiasts and curious newcomers.

The Kickstarter campaign will offer early-bird tiers, exclusive offers and special rewards for backers. You can sign up to be notified before it launches via the link below.

bjooks.com/pages/beat-gems-kickstarter-signup

LINK:	https://www.soundonsound.com/news/bjooks-launch-beat-gems-kickstarter...
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