Final Track Description
Creating this track was an enjoyable experience that helped me overcome creative challenges. Given my longstanding admiration for the genres of lo-fi and hip-hop, I aimed to produce a unique and significant piece for myself and my listeners. I hope this track motivates those needing clarification about their artistic capabilities.
The final piece's last track followed a 4/4-time signature and was recorded at 70 BPM, with the key of Dm. Initially, a simple backbeat was used for the rhythm, but it was switched to an elevator jazz vibe towards the end. The drum recording process involved seven tracks: kick, snare, hi-hat, low tom, mid-toms, left crash, and ride. Three Lo-fi drum sets were combined in a Drum Machine Designer (DMD) to establish the composition's foundation. At bar 17, a unique transition was created, changing the track's vibe and feel.
My composition's Harmony and Chords tracks are rooted in the key of D minor. For bars 1-16, the chord progression includes Dm, Am, Am, Gm, F, Am, Am, Em, and Dm, while bars 17-32 switch to Dm, Gm, Dm, and Am. In my Lofi piece, the Melody track was crafted to create an eerie atmosphere while maintaining musical harmony. The melody features a gradually contoured motif, several arches, and inverted arches to tell the story of the composition. A motif is a repeated pattern of music. The melody shifts at Bar 25 and concludes at Bar 29. The seamless execution of the desired effect in the Melody track was primarily due to the use of minor chords.
For this project, I experimented with the Roll and Slicer effect function on my Boss RC-505 to create six distinct audio tracks. After some consideration, I decided that an 8th note and reverb would best fit my vision. To personalize the project, I recorded my tag, Jermus, as audio between bars 13-14 and 31-32 using the same technique. Finally, I combined the sounds to produce an immersive and captivating audio experience.
As a music creator, I enjoy incorporating time-based effects like tremolo and tape delays into my compositions. I experiment with various effects, such as pitch shifters, chorus, and pedals, to achieve diverse sounds. I use dynamic processors, compression, and EQs to ensure a balanced and polished output. Tremolo effects are particularly significant to me as they add a subtle ambiance and breathing space to my music, while tape delays help me achieve a seamless blend between parts. By utilizing compression, I can ensure that the levels of my work are consistent with my best ability. I also contour my sounds with low- and high-pass filters through EQs for an even more refined output.
My tension cue was by far my favorite to work on. My cue is at 65BPM and in the key of B minor. First, I closed my eyes and imagined myself stranded at sea on a ship. With the breeze blowing in my head, I opened my eyes and began to paint this scenery with music. I first used a harp for the leading melody/hook because it resembles me searching for a way home. I also used a slow shimmering pad to mock the ocean waves crashing, and I used low marimba quarter note hits to compare it to a ticking clock running out of time. I used the metal drum for the drums to bring my cue to life. The tension builds as the modulated bass comes into play. Then comes the vowel glider pad that gives me chills whenever I hear it. As the song progresses, I wanted to bring in a dark filter along with some Indian & Middle Eastern drums to help build more until the breakdown comes in. I cut the melody and added bells to bring out the vibes in my cue. After the breakdown, I brought everything back in to finish my cue. I struggled to pick the instruments and keys, but I ultimately had a solid mix. I recorded the shaker and my voice, and at the end, I helped resolve the overall theme of the cue. I decided to name my cue Deserted Voyage as that name has been in my head ever since I started
My Music
