Matrix of modals

Just wondering how anyone would use a matrix of modals or menus. Is there a use case for this as opposed to a bunch of modals/matrices laid out next to each other?

I was designing a Cubase controller using modal boxes but I had to restart using Panels and switches because if I had a modal box and in the modal box, another button that open a modal box inside of that one, then when I wanted to press a button anywhere else on the screen (Outside of the modal boxes), I would have to press the screes x amount of times for the modal boxes to close. I had a really good controller being built until I realised I'd have to press anywhere on the screen multiple times to close each one and that kind of thing kills workflow when using for DAW use.