Combining elements of techno, neo-classical, and film music, LAAKE creates a unique sound that merges piano melodies with strong rhythms. The orchestral melodies revolve around machines, resulting in a fusion of radiant lyrical passages and energetic techno-classical anthems.
Photo credit: LAAKE – Official
The composer fearlessly explores uncharted territories, infusing elements of pop into the music. Occasionally, a deep voice accompanies the melodies, narrating tales of light and darkness. With LAAKE’s skillful hands, we are immersed in a melodic void that captivates our senses.
LAAKE recently released his highly anticipated single ‘LAM’ from his upcoming album ‘VOLT.’ Inspired by an electric shock, the album takes listeners on a captivating and thrilling musical journey. ‘VOLT’ is set to release on October 6th, promising electrifying energy and mesmerizing soundscapes.
To celebrate the release, LAAKE invited EG into the studio to share five studio tips for pushing your skills to the limit.
1. Don’t think too much before starting a sound.
You have to keep a certain amount of the unconscious in order for the music to be unique. I think you need to keep your mind as free as possible when you start composing. I may record a lot of vocal notes on my phone with ideas for melodies, but I always start from scratch when I switch on Ableton and begin a composition.
2. Layer but not too much.
If you don’t like your synth or any other sound, don’t hesitate to layer it with another sound, using another preset for example. This will make it bigger and more original. If I layer so many things on my tracks (I can have 12 pianos stacked together on some tracks), it’s often because I’m not necessarily happy with my initial sound. But beware, this technique has its limits: the more tracks there are on your project, the more complicated the mix becomes.
3. Pitch / Key
I realized quite late that if I was having trouble mixing my tracks, it was because they were very heavy in the low and middle-low frequencies, as I was stacking a lot of pianos in the middle-low frequencies. You mustn’t hesitate to well separate the low frequencies from the middles and the high frequencies as soon as you start composing. If your sound is too low, certain parts can be pitched upwards to free up space in the lower end of the spectrum. Don’t hesitate to change the key too, it can totally change your track. Some bass notes sound better in certain keys, so it’s best to test and trust your ears.
4. Mix
Don’t hesitate to delegate this step to someone who knows your sound and knows where you want to go. On the other hand, if you are a producer, I advise you to push your productions as far as possible before entrusting them to a mixer. There’s often a tendency to think that the mixer will work magic, but it’s often necessary to optimize your production as much as possible and to push your skills to the limit. Even if you don’t have the technical skills, you can still mix. You just have to trust yourself and use the best tool for the job: your ears.
5. Treat yourself with confidence.
The opinions of others are important, but you have to try to limit them. I often see that for the same piece of music, the opinions around me will be totally different, it’s a question of emotion and personality. You have to trust yourself because music, before it’s released on the internet, is a personal thing. What’s expected of you is that it should be personal and unique.
LAAKE’s ‘VOLT’ album is set to release on October 6th via SOMAA, The Orchard. Get your copy of ‘LAM’ single here.
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