The Mellotron is a keyboard instrument that became the direct ancestor of modern samplers. Under each key inside it is a separate strip of magnetic tape with a recording of a real instrument (strings, flute, choir). By pressing a key, the player triggers the playback of the corresponding tape.
Because of the imperfection of the mechanics, the Mellotron's sound came out a little unsteady, “floating,” with a characteristic ghostly, nostalgic tinge — and it was loved precisely for this. In the 1960s–70s the Mellotron became a landmark instrument: its timbres defined the sound of The Beatles (the flute intro of “Strawberry Fields Forever”) and of progressive rock (King Crimson, Genesis, Yes). Although digital technology made it obsolete, the Mellotron's unmistakable “warm” and slightly eerie voice still inspires musicians who prize its imperfect, “human” magic.
