Use base switch-ups to add dynamic contrast
Problem: lack of dynamic contrast in bass
Introducing different bass presets or textures during the drop can create a dramatic shift in energy and mood. The speaker demonstrates this by switching from a plucky bass to a sustained, rising bass with white noise…
Overlap and reverse sample sections for riser effects
Problem: lack of dynamic build-ups
Reversing a portion of a sample and overlapping it with the original creates a riser-like effect. This technique is widely used in EDM to build energy before a drop. The reversed section adds a sense of movement and…
Use automation to innovate with dynamic changes
Problem: static sounds lacking dynamics
Automation in Ableton allows precise control over parameters over time. The tutorial shows automating filter cutoff on a synth to create a rising tension effect before a drop. This technique is fundamental in house and…
Duck 327Hz on vocals for party atmosphere
Problem: vocals muddying the mix
A narrow 327Hz cut on vocals can create a 'party atmosphere' by reducing muddiness in the mid-range. This frequency range often clashes with other elements like synths or bass. The cut is subtle but makes vocals sit…
Use tension and release as a core principle in track structure
Problem: lack of dynamic contrast in track
Creating tension and release is a fundamental concept in music production, especially in big room and trance. This involves building up energy during the build and break, then releasing it during the drop. This principle…
Use emotional vocals in the build to enhance the track's impact
Problem: lack of emotional impact in build
Adding emotional vocals during the build helps elevate the track's intensity and connect with the listener on an emotional level. These vocals should be carefully chosen to match the key and mood of the track, and they…
Mistake: Not using emotional vocals in the build to enhance the track's impact
Problem: lack of emotional impact in build
A common mistake is to skip adding emotional vocals during the build, which can make the track feel flat and unengaging. Emotional vocals are crucial for building anticipation and connecting with the listener. Without…
Use placeholder vocals from Splice for quick production, then replace with original vocals
Problem: time-consuming vocal selection and commissioning
Using placeholder vocals from Splice is a time-saving technique for producers who want to quickly test the feel of a track. However, it's important to note that many labels may not accept Splice vocals for official…
Focus on key matching when selecting vocals for the track
Problem: vocals clashing with track key
When selecting vocals, it's crucial to ensure they match the key of the track to maintain harmonic cohesion. This helps the vocals blend seamlessly with the rest of the arrangement and avoids dissonance. While tempo can…
Use the 'rubber meets the road' analogy to emphasize the drop
Problem: lack of focus on the drop's importance
The phrase 'rubber meets the road' is used to describe the moment when the track's energy is fully realized, typically during the drop. This is a conceptual tip that helps producers understand the importance of the drop…
Use vocal snippets to build anticipation before the drop
Problem: lack of build-up before the drop
Introducing short vocal phrases or hints of the main melody before the drop helps build tension and excitement. This technique is common in big room and progressive house, where the audience needs to be emotionally…
Use filters to introduce the melody gradually
Problem: melody feels abrupt or unprepared
Applying a filter to the melody track allows it to be introduced slowly, creating a sense of movement and anticipation. This technique is often used in big room and progressive house to build tension before the drop. The…
Create tension before the drop by building up energy
Problem: drop lacks impact or energy
Before the drop, it's essential to build up energy through layering, increasing intensity, and using techniques like risers, white noise sweeps, and gradual filter openings. This creates a sense of anticipation and makes…
Duck vocals on the drop for a bigger impact
Problem: vocals overpower the drop
Lowering or muting the vocal track during the drop allows the other elements (like the bass, synths, and drums) to shine through more prominently. This creates a more powerful and immersive experience for the listener,…
Pan dry and wet delay signals for width
Problem: stereo image feels narrow or flat
Panning the dry signal to one side and the wet signal to the opposite side creates a wider stereo image. This technique is effective in big room house and progressive trance to enhance spatial depth. The separation…
Create extreme stereo width without phasing by removing unison
Problem: phasing from stereo widening
Removing unison from a synth allows for extreme stereo panning without phasing. This technique is used in big room and future bass to maximize width. It requires careful EQ to avoid frequency cancellation but achieves a…
Sidechain multiband compressor on kick for rhythmic bass
Problem: bass lacks rhythmic interaction with kick
Route the kick to the sidechain of a multiband compressor on the bass. Set the compressor to only affect the 80-150Hz range. This allows the kick to 'push' the bass slightly on each hit, creating a subtle pumping effect…