In the realm of music production, few individuals exemplify creativity and technical prowess like Andrew Huang. His recent track "Takeshi," featured in his new album "Dustin Dewdrop," has garnered considerable attention, with many fans noting it as a standout piece. In this article, we will delve into the intricacies of Huang's production process, exploring how he transformed a simple lo-fi beat into an orchestral masterpiece.
Understanding the Creative Process
Andrew Huang's journey with "Takeshi" began with a straightforward concept: to create a basic lo-fi beat. This intention is a testament to his ability to start simple and allow the music to evolve organically. As he describes, the initial phase involved working with a modern jazz sample, which he skillfully manipulated to achieve a vintage, vinyl-like sound using the plugin RC-20. This process exemplifies Huang's approach to music production, where he strikes a balance between innovation and nostalgia.
The Role of Sampling
Huang's use of sampling is particularly noteworthy. He sourced his jazz sample from Tracklib, a service that facilitates legal sampling. By investing in the licensing, he not only supports the artists involved but also ensures that his musical creations are built on a solid ethical foundation. This commitment to legality in sampling is an essential aspect of modern music production, where the lines between inspiration and infringement can often blur.
Layering Sounds for Depth
As the track progressed, Huang layered various elements to enrich the soundscape. The drums, while basic, were crafted with care. He utilized a single kick drum and combined three rim shots to create a tasteful flam effect. This attention to detail is indicative of Huang's meticulous nature, ensuring that every sound contributes to the overall aesthetic.
One of the standout techniques he employed involved playing the hi-hat with a cucumber. This unconventional method not only adds a unique timbre to the track but also showcases Huang's playful approach to sound design.
Adding Melodic Elements
In addition to the rhythmic foundation, Huang introduced a palm-muted guitar line, panned left and right for a fuller sound. To enhance the presence of this guitar part in the mix, he doubled the tracks and pitched them up an octave, demonstrating his keen ear for melodic balance.
Huang also incorporated automation of gain and reverb on the guitar, creating transitions that lend a synth-like quality to certain sections. This technique adds a layer of complexity, allowing the listener to experience dynamic shifts within the piece.
Crafting Atmosphere with Ambient Sounds
As the track developed, Huang aimed to create a chill atmosphere reminiscent of an orchestra. He introduced ocean wave sounds, but after some trial and error, settled on a sample of traffic from Freesound, which provided an intriguing backdrop. This decision highlights the importance of experimentation in music production—sometimes the unexpected choices yield the most satisfying results.
To further enhance the texture of the piece, Huang utilized the Chase Bliss Mood pedal, which offers a variety of effects including delays and time stretching. This pedal allowed him to manipulate the sample creatively, leading to unexpected sonic discoveries.
The Orchestral Influence
As the production evolved, Huang noticed that the manipulated sample began to sound like a quiet string section. This realization prompted him to explore additional orchestral elements, leading him to the plugin "Landforms." This tool provided expressive fluttery bits of orchestral playing that Huang integrated into the mix, enriching the soundscape further.
Recognizing the need for a climactic build-up, Huang composed original string parts and enlisted professional string players to bring his vision to life. The resulting strings not only added depth but also elevated the track from a simple lo-fi beat to an epic, majestic composition.
Final Touches and Ear Candy
With the core elements in place, Huang focused on finalizing the mix. He opted to include timpani sounds, which he created using samples rather than live recordings. This decision underscores the versatility of modern music production, where technology allows for creative solutions to traditional instrumentation.
One of Huang's signature touches is the inclusion of "ear candy"—subtle sound effects that enhance the listening experience. For "Takeshi," he incorporated soft white noise hits, filtered to remove low frequencies. This technique adds a delicate sprinkle of texture, making transitions between sections feel more dynamic and engaging.
The Impact of Subtle Details
As Huang explains, these little details can significantly influence the emotional impact of a track. The soft white noise, although understated, acts as a release mechanism when new sections arrive, creating an auditory experience that resonates with listeners.
Conclusion: The Journey of Creation
Andrew Huang's "Takeshi" is a remarkable example of how a simple idea can blossom into a complex and captivating piece of music. Through strategic sampling, layering of sounds, and a willingness to experiment, he has crafted a track that balances lo-fi elements with orchestral grandeur.
By embracing both modern technology and classical techniques, Huang continues to push the boundaries of music production. His journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring producers, illustrating the importance of creativity, experimentation, and ethical practices in the ever-evolving landscape of music.
For those interested in exploring Huang's work further, his album "Dustin Dewdrop" is available for streaming, offering a rich tapestry of sounds that reflect his innovative spirit. As we continue to witness the evolution of music, artists like Andrew Huang remind us of the magic that can happen when passion meets skill.
This breakdown of "Takeshi" not only highlights the technical aspects of music production but also emphasizes the emotional journey that comes with creating art. Each decision, from sampling to layering, contributes to the final product, and it's a reminder that every sound tells a story.