Meaning: The quote "I was starting to feel really suffocated, using the sequencer" by Tom Jenkinson, a musician known for his experimental electronic music under the pseudonym Squarepusher, offers insight into the challenges and limitations that musicians may encounter when working with certain tools or technologies.

In the context of electronic music production, a sequencer is a device or software application used to create and manipulate sequences of musical events or sounds. Sequencers are integral to the creation of electronic and computer-based music, allowing for precise control over timing, rhythm, and arrangement. However, for some musicians, the use of a sequencer can become stifling and restrictive, as it may limit creative freedom and spontaneity in the music-making process.

Tom Jenkinson's statement suggests that he began to feel constrained and stifled by the sequencer, indicating a sense of creative frustration or dissatisfaction with the limitations it imposed on his musical expression. This sentiment is not uncommon among musicians who work with technology-driven tools, as the balance between creative control and artistic freedom can be a delicate one to maintain.

For many musicians, the allure of electronic music production lies in the potential for endless sonic exploration and experimentation. However, the use of certain tools, such as sequencers, can sometimes lead to a feeling of being boxed-in or confined within the parameters of the technology itself. This can be particularly true for artists like Tom Jenkinson, whose musical style is characterized by intricate rhythms, complex arrangements, and a penchant for pushing the boundaries of conventional electronic music.

It's important to note that Jenkinson's statement does not necessarily imply a condemnation of sequencers or technology in music production. Instead, it reflects a personal experience of grappling with the tension between creative expression and the constraints of a particular tool. In fact, many electronic musicians continue to embrace and innovate within the realm of electronic music technology, finding ways to harness its potential while also pushing its boundaries.

In response to feeling suffocated by the sequencer, Tom Jenkinson may have sought out alternative methods of music production or creative outlets to reinvigorate his artistic process. This could include exploring different hardware or software tools, collaborating with other musicians, or incorporating live performance elements into his music-making practice. By doing so, Jenkinson might have found new avenues for creative expression and a renewed sense of freedom in his artistic pursuits.

Jenkinson's quote also raises broader questions about the relationship between technology and creativity in music. While electronic music production offers unprecedented possibilities for sound manipulation and composition, it also presents challenges in navigating the balance between technical precision and artistic spontaneity. For some musicians, the allure of electronic music lies in its capacity to transcend traditional musical boundaries, while for others, the reliance on technology can lead to a sense of creative confinement.

Ultimately, Tom Jenkinson's candid reflection on feeling suffocated by the sequencer offers a glimpse into the complex interplay between creativity and technology in the world of electronic music. It serves as a reminder that while technology can be a powerful tool for artistic expression, it is essential for musicians to find ways to maintain a sense of creative freedom and authenticity in their work, regardless of the tools they use.