Native Instruments’ most recent virtual piano instrument brings the signature tones of Alicia Keys’ CP-70 electric grand piano. Aphelion’s Orbit takes it for a spin.
What is it?
Native Instruments sampled Kontakt library of Alicia Keys Yamaha CP70.
Who is it for?
Everyone, especially those who want to get close to the sound of Alicia’s Yamaha CP70 electric piano.
First Impressions
I have been waiting to review this Kontakt library for a couple different reasons. The 1st being how close does this get to that distinct sound that’s heard on her albums and in concerts. 2nd, see what can be produced that’s new and fresh with elements of her sound.
I found myself going through each preset meticulously listing at subtle tones and pitches that I could say, “That’s Alicia!” And, I can say more than a few tones reminded me of her songs or something she would use while playing.
I tested by listening through my Yamaha NS10 monitors. Then I switched over to my Sony MDR-7506 headphones, and lastly through my Sennheiser HD 400’s.
The Sound
I think this Kontakt library is well done and is a great companion to her original studio piano product. The sound just feels good and you find yourself getting lost in playing the presets as the top of the VST lights up with different cultural and iconic references from her.
Diving into the front panel edit section to dial in the color, tone, dynamics, preamps and sub are really nice to have as you edge toward that sound you are looking for.
Further controls are available in the instrument section for mic positioning, stereo panning and further sound shaping. And a nice section of familiar Native Instruments effects like Psyche Delay, Dirt, Freak, and Bite are all there as well.
I can’t speak to articulation, or how certain notes or key ranges were sampled for this VST but I can say that presets like, Sweeping Pad, Bright Eighties, Bit Storm, Dude Devin, Eighties Dimension, Filtered Chops, Tremolo Twang and a host of others are begging to be played, twisted and manipulated into something new.
The bass end of this VST sounds great. Now, there are times when you have to dial back the reverb on a few presets, or the high end gets a little too bright but that’s okay, that’s why you edit the presets or create your own sounds.
Pros:
- Sound great
- Fun
- Fits all styles of music
Cons:
- Some presets feel a bit over processed.
Final Thoughts
Simply put, I like this Kontakt library. It’s dope. it lends itself to a contemporary and modern style of country, pop, jazz, soul, or dance music.
Can you find something to pick on here if you’re looking for a perfectly sampled representation, of course you can. Although, I think many of us, after playing this instrument for a while, will fall in love with how much it just inspires you. And at the end of the day, for me that’s all that matters.
Alicia’s Electric Keys is available to purchase at the Native Instruments store for 149 USD/EUR. The instrument library is also confirmed to be included in the upcoming Komplete 15 Ultimate and Collector’s Edition.
