MIXING SYNTH POP DRUMS
Having started out working in the pop and rock genres with guitar bands such as Ball Park Music, Fountaineer and many others, my first foray into the synth pop and electronic music realm was anything but smooth. The usual tricks and techniques I used for pop and rock music no longer worked, and it took a while to appreciate that the sonic palette was completely different and to align my hearing accordingly. I hope this series provides some insights into the general philosophies and techniques that go into making this music pop!
DRUMS: LAYER UPON LAYER
In synth pop the drum elements are often comprised of various individual layers. It’s not uncommon to receive numerous kicks, snares, claps, fingersnaps and hi-hats – not to mention anything else that may exist. Just like having multiple mics on a single source (e.g. a kick in and a kick out), each track contributes a small part to the final sound and it’s our job to make them all work together.
In terms of the overall presentation of the drums, the kick is generally quite prominent with a focus in the low end and low mid area; think in terms of ‘knock’
