Ensure all sounds around the bassline are compatible with the genre
Problem: incompatible sounds causing a loose mix
Choosing the right kick, clap, and hi-hat that complement the bassline is crucial for a cohesive sound. Using incompatible sounds can lead to a loose and unprofessional feel, even if the bassline is well-designed. This…
Research genre-specific classic sounds for faster selection
Knowing classic sounds for a genre (e.g., the Corg M1 piano for piano house) streamlines the selection process. This avoids spending hours searching for the right sound and ensures the track aligns with genre…
Mistake: Using a big distorted delay in the wrong genre (e.g., Deep House)
Problem: delay clashing with genre's aesthetic
A distorted delay with long repeats and heavy modulation works in genres like Future Bass but clashes with the minimalism of Deep House. This creates a muddy, unprofessional sound that doesn't align with the genre's…
Mistake: neglecting upper mid-range energy for aggression
Problem: lack of aggression in upper mid-range
The speaker acknowledges that sometimes mixes lack the necessary aggression in the upper mid-range (around 1-4kHz), which can make a track feel lifeless or unengaging. This is particularly relevant in genres like trance…
Reference filter automation techniques in Tech House drops
Problem: lack of dynamic movement in basslines
Analyzing how producers like Chris Lake use filter automation in Tech House drops provides a template for creating dynamic basslines. The technique involves opening the filter fully at the start of a drop and gradually…
Focus on mastering one genre to build creative energy
Problem: creative energy diluted across genres
Spreading creative energy across multiple genres leads to diluted skills. By focusing on one genre (e.g., trance, house), producers develop deep expertise in its rules, trends, and audience expectations. This approach…
Learn genre rules before breaking them
Problem: inventing without understanding genre foundations
Innovation requires first mastering the conventions of a genre. The speaker uses the analogy of martial arts: you must learn the forms before you can create new ones. For example, understanding trance's melodic structure…
Concept: Genre-specific vocal processing is essential for track cohesion
Problem: generic vocal processing fails to match genre expectations
The speaker highlights that techniques like dynamic range reduction on vocals are genre-dependent. While pop producers might avoid such aggressive compression, it's a necessary approach in vectoring dance music to…
Tailor presets for medic house and deep house genres
Problem: generic presets that don't fit genre needs
The speaker creates a preset specifically for 'medic house and deep house,' highlighting the importance of genre-specific sound design. This ensures the preset's character aligns with the rhythmic and harmonic…
Mistake: using 'flubby' kicks in EDM
Problem: muddy low end, unclear kick
Producers often choose kicks with too much low-end 'mud' in EDM, which clutters the mix. A clear, clicky kick with a sharp transient is better for cutting through the mix. This is especially important in genres like…
Concept: Kick selection defines the track's energy
The choice of kick drum is foundational in EDM production. A poorly chosen kick can ruin the mix's clarity and groove. Producers should prioritize kicks that match the genre's rhythmic and tonal characteristics. This is…
Add tube distortion for old school bass character
Problem: bass lacks warmth or vintage character
Tube distortion is applied to the bass to emulate analog warmth, a signature of 90s Euro Dance. The producer avoids over-processing, relying on subtle saturation to add harmonic richness without muddying the low end.…