Four-Layer Role System
Timeline
Rhythmic reference framework. Analogous to bell pattern in West African music or Clave in Cuban music.
Foundation
Low-frequency skeleton. Sparse and stable. Corresponds to bass drum or low percussion.
Groove
Fills rhythmic space. Complementary relationship with Foundation layer.
Lead
Most flexible layer. Responsible for improvisation and ornamentation.
Interlocking Mechanisms
Avoidance
Layer avoids positions where another layer already has notes
Complement
Layer prioritizes filling gaps left by another layer
Strong: West African, Gamelan ・ None: Electronic
Style Preference Matrix
West African (12/8)
Afro-Cuban
Brazilian (Samba)
Balkan (Aksak)
Indian (Tala)
Gamelan
Jazz
Electronic
Breakbeat
Techno
Each style defines preference values (0.0-1.0) for 4 roles × 16 positions
Humanization
West African timing±25ms
Jazz timing±15ms
Electronic timing±2ms
Swing (slow BPM)~68%
Swing (fast BPM)~54%
Ghost Notes velocity25-50%
Specialized Engines
IramaEngine — Density Levels
Javanese 5-level: Lancar → Tanggung → Dados → Wiled → Rangkep
KotekanEngine — Interlocking
Balinese Polos-Sangsih strict alternation, two parts → one rapid melody
PolymeterEngine — Cycle Overlay
Simultaneous different-length cycles (e.g., 12 beats vs 16 beats)
CallResponseEngine — Dialogue
Traditional music dialogue structure with Call and Response types
AsymmetricGroupingEngine
Balkan Aksak rhythms (e.g., 7/8 = 2+2+3)
Theoretical Foundation
— African polyrhythm & interlock
— Timeline theory
— Jazz microtiming
— Euclidean rhythms
— Balinese Kotekan