Polyphonic Music Library - Tape Breaks Vol. 5

Introducing "Tape Breaks Vol. 5"—a royalty-free collection from Polyphonic Music Library.

Tape Breaks Vol. 5 ventures into the experimental wonderland of 70s European jazz fusion—where Parisian cats pushed boundaries in smoky Left Bank studios and psychedelic soul alchemists bent reality through analog circuitry. This collection captures the essence of an era when genres were fluid, sessions were adventures, and every recording was a sonic expedition into uncharted territory.

Fifteen meticulously crafted breaks channel the sophisticated swagger of French fusion masters, the cosmic wanderings of psychedelic architects, and the deep pocket of jazz-soul pioneers. Over 120 individual one-shots breathe with vintage tube warmth—each kick anchored in analog authority, snares crashing through ribbon mic intimacy, hi-hats shimmering with magnetic particles, toms resonating with acoustic honesty, and percussion dancing in the analog ether.

Every rhythm was baptized through vintage tube microphones and sculpted by analog processors before finding its final home on the Ampex 440b—that legendary 1/4" tape machine that gave countless 70s classics their unmistakable texture. These breaks don't just sample the past; they transport you to dimly-lit European studios where innovation met tradition and magic happened between the grooves.

Who’s Using These Samples?

Drums and samples by Polyphonic Music Library can be heard on records by Jake One, Drake, Kendrick Lamar, J. Cole, Schoolboy Q, Jack Harlow, H.E.R., Doechii, Westside Gunn, Joey Badass, Russ, Boldy James, Bryson Tiller, and Conway.

Jake One sampled the “Cold Diamonds” drum break from the Italia collection for Russ.
Kal Banx used the “Blue Sharks” drum break from the Italia collection for Doechii.