Need help with electronic beats/drum tracks and sound

[SSGmono]

I would like some advice on how to make more elaborate electronic beats/drum tracks and some other interesting sounds to contribute to my recordings. Fruity Loops just doesn’t cut it. Can’t change time signature in the middle of the track, don’t like the interface, etc. I would like to keep all of this virtual with software and virtual equipment/instruments. In no way do I want help with the creative process. I’m going for beats like Aphex Twin, Massive Attack, and some Radiohead.

Here are three examples:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WedRDYmtvX4
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mUT3KoxVzQg
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jOdLF0P4yeY

I’m just learning this, and am not learning to make my own music or anything at this point. I think learning how to replicate some of the sounds I like will help me make things how I like it (or not? Tell me that is why I’m posting). Again, I’m wanting to keep it all virtual, but if certain hardware is a must let me know. Any form of advice or help is appreciated because I want to learn as much as I can.

Also, if this isn't the right place to ask this I would appreciate another site or forum recommendation.

I'm new to the forum, and everyone has been VERY helpful, and I appreciate it very much. Thanks.

 

[bouldersoundguy]

You'll often see me suggesting Sony Acid Pro, not because it's especially better than the others but because it's an effective part of many projects I've worked on. There are other good programs out there.

 

[SSGmono]

So software like Reason or Sony Acid Pro will open up a variety of new possibilities? Better than Fruity Loops?

Will a lot of what I am looking for come in just one piece of software?

 

[bouldersoundguy]

So software like Reason or Sony Acid Pro will open up a variety of new possibilities? Better than Fruity Loops?

Will a lot of what I am looking for come in just one piece of software?

I'm pretty sure Acid will support changing time signature and tempo mid-song. It's also a fairly functional DAW, so you can track audio in it and produce mixes.

 

[SSGmono]

Ok, I will check it out.