PROJECTS
Reflection
This song is a perfect example of my determination and fight for success.
Structure, Rhythm, Bass
The entire purpose of this track is to lay down heavy bass along with quick melodies. The Kick and Snare frequencies are designed to work in Tandem with the wobble bass frequencies.
Key, Harmony
The key of this arrangement is E Harmonic Minor.
I chose also to borrow Chords from at least 2 other keys when developing the changing motions of this song. The goal was to make the listener feel as though they are out of body with a slight sense of falling up combined with a sense of flight.
Reflection
When I originally started this song, it was much faster in tempo. I chose to slow it down as many times its easier to really feel music when you have time to absorb it. I wanted to create something that a person can feel with every breath the take. I personally prefer the arrangement with no percussion.
Structure, Rhythm, Bass
I synthesized my own kick, snare and hats for a structured rhythm. I created and designed the bass to carry the chords and melody while adding a pace that works with the drums. The bass and drums are the entire foundation of the arrangement.
Key, Harmony
The key of this arrangement is A Harmonic Minor, but the 3rd chord I used the 1st chord of the relatable key C Major. My favorite this about this arrangement is the chord progression of ACE, DFA, CEG, GBD. I was really struck by how hearing them felt. I chose, in A harmonic minor, 1st chord, 4th Chord (inverted A), 1st Chord (C Major), Diminished 7th Chord in A harmonic minor. I inverted the B and D in the Diminished 7th which really added what I was looking for.
Original Sound
Interestingly, I added an original sample which is both unique and familiar. I used a mic to record the playback of the arrangement as it bled through headphones. Once it was recorded, I chopped it down and made it mirror the bass notes and a higher octave. I added a delay and reverb to help the sample sound more subtle.
Mixing
The mixing process was very easy as I watched my levels as I have a habit of watching my meters when I’m working on a specific sound. The challenge I had was balancing and layering 2 sets of drums, snares and hats. I like to leave ample space for a track to be mastered. The better the mix, the better the master.