Following the release of his glitchy dreamscape ‘Nocturnal Musings’, experimental electronic artist Textbook Maneuver continues to captivate the global IDM and ambient-electronica scene. Released via his own imprint, Life Science Records, LLC, the track and its haunting, trail-cam-shot video underscores the New Jersey-based composer’s gift for blending cerebral sound design with cinematic storytelling. A classically trained pianist with a punk spirit, Michael Keane draws inspiration from a diverse range of influences, from Genesis, Rush, The Postal Service, to U.N.K.L.E., and beyond – crafting immersive soundscapes that balance intellectual experimentation with emotional depth, sure to ensnare fans of Boards of Canada, μ-Ziq, and Squarepusher. With 130,000 streams across platforms and early acclaim for his debut album Adrenaline Slip from Magnetic Magazine, Illustrate Magazine, WWAM, and others, Textbook Maneuver is fast emerging as one of the most compelling new voices in experimental electronic music.
Read our interview with Michael below:
Paint us a picture: what sparked your passion for the arts in the first place? Was there a single moment or experience that solidified your decision to pursue this path?
I have loved music for as far back as I can remember, and as soon as we got a piano when I was a small child, I took to it right away. I took lessons and studied classical music, but mostly listened to rock, metal, and punk in my youth. I played bass and keyboards in some basement bands as a teenager. I went into a non-musical career but always dreamed of returning to music. Last year [2024], I got serious—took a music business class, learned Logic, studied electronic music, and started dusting off old motifs and themes I wrote decades ago. The debut album is all new material; the older ideas are still on the way. Once friends and family heard what I was working on, they encouraged me to release it. So I founded the label Life Science Records, released a few singles and an EP, and then jumped into the full album, which is called Adrenaline Slip.
When you create, what leads the way – a feeling, a story, or the sound itself?
Every song starts with improvisation and experimentation, often when learning a new skill or technique. I’ll sit at the piano and practice, or jam on a new synthesizer, and eventually a motif strikes me emotionally. From there, I build around that theme. Titles often come to mind and sometimes guide the structure. If I get stuck, I write out themes on notation paper, return to the piano, and explore acoustically. I save versions along the way, bounce near-final tracks to mp3, listen in different environments, and tweak until it feels right.
What’s in your toolkit? Share the gear, gadgets, or software you can’t create without.
90% in the box using Logic Pro. I also use a Roland RS-70 synthesizer, Yamaha piano, Yamaha bass, Takamine acoustic guitar, and a MOTU MIDI interface. I record field sounds with my Galaxy phone and use a Shure SM7MdB microphone.
What’s your go-to ritual or trick for getting into the creative zone?
Reading about music—either about artists or gear—listening to new music, practicing, reverse engineering favorite songs, and exploring new chord progressions. I also dive deep into new synths and plugins. Sometimes a single sound inspires a whole song. Reading old sci-fi short stories also sparks creativity for me.
What’s the one item you always keep within arm’s reach while creating or performing?
I always compose near my piano. My DAW is in the same room so I can switch between analog and digital. When I’m away, I always carry a notebook to jot down ideas.
How did you ultimately end up defining your sound?
Working from a home studio, I stayed in the box. I was writing a lot of chill, downtempo themes, and the tones I was generating naturally shaped the sound. I just followed the creative flow during an intensely productive six months.
How has your creative process or perspective shifted since you started your journey?
I thought I’d write rock or punk, but once I began creating, I followed where the music led. I also aim to compose for film, TV, or games, so I’ve leaned into soundscapes and instrumental storytelling. I moved away from traditional song structures and vocals—for now. That’ll be part of a future project.
Walk us through a recording session: what’s the most memorable moment you’ve had in the studio?
I usually start at the piano. After some improvisation, if something clicks, I quickly move to the DAW and capture it. The fastest song I created was ‘Murmur 1 Perfect Days’. It came together in just a few hours—two main themes, drums, bass, and layers all aligned quickly. The inspiration came from watching the film Perfect Days. That moment was unforgettable and led me to create the ‘Murmur’ series for shorter, intuitive tracks.
Are there any unexpected or dream collaborations hidden in your work?
Not yet!
Any side projects you’re working on?
Yes. Distance Major leans closer to rock—once I write with lyrics, I’ll release under that name. SCITK [pronounced SciTech] is straight-up dance music. I’ve released two tracks so far: ‘Harmony Room’ and ‘Time Stop’. Finally, under Michael Keane, I’ll release piano-based classical tracks. A forthcoming album called Titles Electronica will include classical pieces and their electronic counterparts.
Who’s an emerging artist you think deserves more recognition right now?
On the alternative rock/metal side, Abrams from the US—their album Blue City is incredible. In electronic music, Ott is doing great work and deserves a bigger audience. UK duo RUINS are also fantastic.
What’s the strangest or most surprising song currently on your playlist?
Spirit Possession’s 2023 album of the sign… — not sure if it’s the scariest or most beautiful album I’ve ever heard. Definitely dark, noisy, and strange.
Which song, album or playlist do you never get sick of no matter how many times you listen to it?
Fantastic Planet by Failure. It’s probably my all-time favorite. I listen to it front-to-back multiple times a year.
Are there any unexpected hobbies or projects you’re exploring outside of your main work?
I’ve been getting into birdwatching—not a full birder yet, but fascinated by it. I’m also starting animation classes this fall, which might evolve into something more.
If your life and career were an album, what would its title be, and what’s the hidden track only your fans would know?
Album title: Unexpected Turns. Hidden track: ‘Started in the ’80s’.
Give us a glimpse into the future – what surprises or milestones are coming up for you this year?
If all goes to plan, I’ll go from zero to four albums released within 12 months. I also hope to land a sync license or be commissioned for a film score soon.
Famous last words?
You are never too old to start a music career.
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