Joe Chiccarelli uses the UAD Shadow Hills Mastering Compressor on the mix bus to achieve a bigger and more natural low-end for a hip-hop track.
He employs a fast release and slow attack with a 3:1 ratio, applying just 1-2 dB of compression to glue the mix together without making it sound overly processed. Chiccarelli opts for the nickel transformer setting to add sparkle and life to the mix.
A key feature he highlights is the sidechain filter, which prevents the low-end from triggering too much compression, avoiding unwanted pumping and breathing effects. This technique ensures the low-end remains powerful and natural.