In recent weeks, ambient modular synth videos have started popping up more frequently on YouTube. The videos center on the gear, with hands coming in and out of frame to slowly adjust a knob or push a fader. Among the sounds are oodles of multi-colored cables, glowing lights, and more often than not, a bit of decor.

Eurorack is a modular synthesizer format based on individual modules that serve specific purposes or make particular sounds. It’s a modular component that makes an array of complex, morphing sounds.

‘they are part performance, part tech tutorial, and part audio-visual wallpaper,’ says contributing editor Philip sherburne. The genre has chugged along but stayed pretty niche.

The number of jam videos uploaded to YouTube has started ticking up. It makes sense as many people have time to experiment with their gear. The novel coronavirus clamps down on live shows and keeps people inside.

One titled’space shuttle’ by Augustin fievet takes place in a room accented by the glow of a table lamp. Another shows a rack surrounded by bottles of baby’s breath, shells, and houseplants.

All of the videos feel cozy. There’s mugs, wooden desks, lush greenery and hand-woven rugs.