Interview with Demoscener 0b5vr This in-depth interview on 6octaves.com features Japanese demoscener 0b5vr, known for creating 64K and 4K intros using WebGL, Shader Jam, and live coding performances. The discussion covers his notable work 0b5vr GLSL Techno Live Set, demoscene trends in Japan, and live audiovisual performances. --- About 0b5vr Independent creator focusing on 64K and 4K intros/exegfx with WebGL. Participates in Shader Jam and performs live coding and VJ sets at club events. Website: 0b5vr.com --- 0b5vr GLSL Techno Live Set (“0mix”) A 64KB HTML-based intro demo, debuted at Revision 2023. Combines the formats of techno demos, live coding, and 64K intros. The piece appears like a live performance recording but is fully generated from a 64KB executable. Live coding aspect is unique: the code shown on screen is for creating music using GLSL (a shader language usually for visuals), not just for visual effects. Music elements like "KICK", "HIHAT", and "BASS" coded live to shape sound flow. Winner of “Crowd Favorite” at Revision 2023. --- Inspirations and Creative Process Inspired by classic techno demos (e.g., Einklang.net’s Medium, Kewlers & mfx’s X-MIX 2004, Epoch’s Emix). Live coding involves real-time programming of visuals/music seen during performance; demoscene live coding usually focuses on GLSL visuals, but music live coding is popular in events like Algorave. 64K intros challenge creators with size constraints; content is fully procedurally generated, demanding extensive skills. Took about a year solo to develop 0mix, including engine, live coding tools, music composition, and visuals. Advises collaboration or at least having someone to discuss ideas and progress with. --- Live Coding and Machine Live Machine live involves real-time musical performances using gear like grooveboxes and modular synths, focusing on hardware limitations to creatively control sounds. Research included using Elektron Syntakt and Dirtywave M8 (tracker-style, pocket-sized equipment popular in this community). 0mix's music draws from the philosophy of machine live applied to GLSL live coding. Recent live music performance at "draw(tokyo); #2" used custom GLSL environment "Wavenerd." Performed with VJ support from demosceners Ukonpower and Renard, who created complementary visuals. --- 4K vs 64K Intros 4K intros take about 1-2 weeks to create, easier due to good tooling support like 0x4015’s minimalGL. 64K intros require much more effort and are considered 0b5vr’s passion. Collaborated successfully on 4K intro "Architectural Shapeshifter" with Renard using minimalGL and Discord. --- Japanese Demoscene Trends Increasing participation from shader artists active in VRChat. Events like SESSIONS and draw(); foster crossover between live coding, generative VJ, and demoscene culture. draw(); particularly drives interest in live coding as an entry point to the scene. --- Everyday Inspirations and Workflow Regularly monitors demoscene platforms Pouet and Demozoo to stay updated. Finds inspiration in pachinko/pachislot machine audiovisuals, which excel in intense, rule-bound visual entertainment. Nighttime urban walks around Tokyo inspire social rhythm and atmosphere seen in demos like Domain (64K intro inspired by Tokyo at night). Uses Git for version control and publicly shares source code under Creative Commons BY-NC 4.0. Writes detailed Git commit logs as a production journal and for community referencing. --- Thoughts on Viewing Demos Non-programmer viewers may see code as a visual or design element—this is acceptable and expected. Creator intent caters to both programmers (who understand the code’s function) and general audiences (who appreciate design and atmosphere). The demoscene values pure expression and technical artistry, free from commercial pressures. --- Favorite Demos -