Electronic Drums

Tape Notes Podcast

Layering kicks: From synthetic to organic drums

Guy Lawrence from Disclosure shares his approach to creating dynamic kick drum sounds by layering synthetic and acoustic elements. He uses the Credland BigKick plugin to synthesize the low-end, achieving anything from deep 808 booms to punchy 909-style kicks. By layering these synthesized kicks with acoustic kick samples or loops, Lawrence adds a more natural and organic feel to the electronic drums. This technique involves combining different layers, such as a knock, a pedal hit, and room noise, to create a fuller, more human-sounding groove. Lawrence emphasizes the importance of restraint in layering, especially in busy tracks, to maintain clarity and drive. This method allows the kick to sit well in the mix, providing a solid foundation without overwhelming other elements.