Westwood Instruments – Novella: Blackwater

Novella: Blackwater is a complete set of virtual instruments for creating songs and film scores. This collection of sounds is inspired by the spirit of American folklore and modern western cinema, combining a modern approach and a versatile palette of timbres for working in various styles.

The ensemble is led by a stunning string section, surrounded by expressive solo instruments, all supported by a rusty oil drum and a selection of off-kilter percussion.

Novella: Blackwater is a powerful source of soundtrack ideas and a limitless field for songwriting creativity. We invite you to explore new horizons and embark on a wild musical adventure.

Strings. Energetic and Bold

A chamber string ensemble with a core set of unique and inspiring articulations for instantly expressing ideas. Includes Motion , an automatic dynamic control synchronized with the tempo, allowing you to create realistic build-ups and movements without taking your hands off the keyboard.

The strings are divided into two detailed groups: the High Strings include violins and violas, while the Lows are cellos and double basses, playing a wide range of coordinated articulations, including Fire & Flint , designed to instantly create drama and tension with the Dynamics and Tone sliders. The ensemble is compact enough to retain detail and liveliness when needed, but quick mic changes and a touch of reverb make it easy to create a large, cinematic sound for the grandest scores.

Natural Legato

Beautiful natural legato, recorded separately for violins, violas, cellos and double basses, with switchable attacks (standard and marcato).

Violin. For love ballads and soulful melodies

A John Betts violin (19th century) with gut strings. Recorded with legato, three attack variations (including a bluegrass-style bend) and open-string drones. An honest, unprocessed sound with a soulful performance.

Harmonium. Compact keys – powerful sound

Harmonium, recorded in the natural range, but expanded for large-scale sound. In addition to traditional timbres, it includes experiments with processing to create non-standard textures and performance techniques.

Electric Guitar #1. Who needs a little twang?

A Danelectro electric guitar with a tube Fender Reverb, recorded with classic twang in dozens of styles. Includes both universal articulations and unique sounds perfect for modern film music.

Electric Guitar #2. Subtle melancholic tones

of the Fender Telecaster, recorded in Studio 2 (Nave Studio) for a dry and intimate sound. Atmospheric slides, muted notes, chords, harmonics and gentle strumming.

Acoustic Guitar. Vintage Steel Sound

Incredibly warm vintage Gibson – the best we’ve heard. Includes natural, “live” rhythms and chords to add realism to your work.

Classical Guitar. A guitar that has seen better days. A

beautifully aged classical guitar with a rough yet atmospheric sound. Wends’ special patches are melancholy strummings that add depth and mood.

Mandola. Classic Country Sound

A folk sound that cuts through a dense mix, but also works great as a solo instrument. This is a gorgeous octave Sobel mandolin, tuned like a mandola. The instrument is recorded with a pick for a crisp attack. We recorded a range of articulations, including short notes, tremolo, and ready-made rhythm patterns for creating soundtracks and songs.

Trumpet. Set the tone

A solo trumpet recorded in an unconventional way. In addition to the melancholic sustain, it includes classic Western motifs for nostalgic moments.

Harmonica. There is no such thing as a spare pair

. Classic sound of westerns. Recorded in different keys, with unusual sustain and bends for adding a characteristic color.

Piano: Our Take on Techno Piano

Played with hickory sticks, this is our take on the classic genre sound. Includes octave patches and random taps for inspiration.

Drums and Percussion. An Ocean of Oil Beneath Us

Our largest ensemble with an indefinite pitch, a huge collection of drums and percussion. We recorded an old rusty oil drum in a variety of ways to offer you a unique metallic sound. The kit includes two snare drums: a highly tuned military one with flams, drags and rolls, and a brass snare with a tambourine rim. You’ll find vintage toms, an antique hand drum and a selection of unusual cymbal stacks. To finish off, we’ve added a jaw harp, claves, cowbell and a variety of shakers – everything you need to create expressive sonic textures.

Each recording contains multiple dynamic layers and circular repetitions for the most natural sound possible.

Instruments

• Chamber strings with legato
• Solo violin with legato
• Harmonium
• 2 electric guitars
• Acoustic and classical guitars
• Mandola
• Trumpet
• Harmonica
• Piano with hickory sticks
• Drums and percussion