Use glitchy sounds as ear candy for texture
Problem: lack of texture or movement in the track
Glitchy sounds can add interesting texture and movement to a track, especially in the context of electronic music. These sounds often work well in the background, adding subtle interest without overpowering the main…
Use reverb to place ear candy in a bigger space
Problem: ear candy sounds too dry or disconnected
Adding reverb to ear candy elements helps them sit more naturally in the mix and gives them a sense of space. This is especially effective for glitchy or textural elements that might otherwise sound too dry or…
Experiment with different reverb settings for ear candy
Problem: ear candy lacks spatial depth
Different reverb settings can dramatically change how ear candy elements are perceived in the mix. It's important to experiment with various reverb types and settings to find the one that best complements the track. This…
Avoid over-processing ear candy to maintain natural feel
Problem: ear candy sounds too robotic or artificial
Over-processing ear candy elements, such as using too much reverb or robotic effects, can make them sound artificial and detract from the organic feel of the track. It's important to find a balance where the ear candy…
Use volume shaping to control the presence of ear candy
Problem: ear candy is too loud or distracting
Controlling the volume of ear candy elements is crucial to ensure they don't overpower the main elements of the track. Using a volume shaper or automation can help manage their presence, allowing them to add texture…
Repeat short sound snippets to create rhythmic ear candy
Problem: lack of rhythmic ear candy elements
To create a rhythmic and repetitive ear candy element, the producer repeats a short sound snippet over a quarter-note duration. This approach allows for the creation of a consistent, looped pattern that can be placed in…
Think about arrangement placement when designing ear candy
Problem: ear candy not integrated into the arrangement
The producer notes that after creating an ear candy element, they need to think about where to place it in the arrangement. This is a crucial step in the creative process, as even the most interesting sound can fall flat…
Add multiple ear candy tracks for more variation and interest
Problem: lack of variation in ear candy
Introducing multiple ear candy tracks increases the variety and interest in the mix. This technique is especially useful in ambient and melodic genres where subtle layers can enhance the atmosphere. The speaker suggests…
Experiment with ear candy placement to find the right context
Problem: uncertainty about ear candy placement
Trying different placements for ear candy elements helps determine where they fit best in the track. This is a crucial step in the creative process, as it allows the producer to explore how the ear candy interacts with…
Adjust volume and reverb of ear candy elements for better integration
Problem: ear candy elements overpower the mix
Reducing the volume and reverb of ear candy elements ensures they blend well with the rest of the track. This is important to avoid overwhelming the mix, especially in ambient and mellow genres where subtlety is key. The…
Add subtle ear candy to enhance the overall texture
Problem: track lacks depth or texture
Including subtle ear candy, such as high-octave or sharp-sounding bass elements, can add depth and interest to the track. These elements are usually placed in the higher frequency range and are used sparingly to avoid…
Add laser percussion as ear candy for extra interest
Problem: track lacks unique or attention-grabbing elements
Layering laser percussion in key moments of the track can add a unique and attention-grabbing element. This technique is often used as a form of 'ear candy' to enhance the overall energy and interest of the track. It's a…
Use ear candy and subtle details to enhance the track
Problem: track feels flat or unengaging
Adding small, subtle elements like risers, sweeps, and textural sounds can greatly enhance the overall feel of a track. These details can make a remix feel more dynamic and engaging, even if the overall structure is…
Add 'ear candies' like a horn with heavy automation to surprise the bass
Problem: predictable groove
Using unexpected elements (e.g., a horn) with heavy automation creates 'ear candy' that adds surprise and interest. This technique is applied sparingly to avoid distraction but enhances the groove's complexity. The…