URBAN BEATS
Unveiling URBAN BEATS: A Journey into East Coast Percussion and Sonic Experimentation
In a world where music is as much about texture as it is about rhythm, I’m thrilled to introduce URBAN BEATS, my latest sample pack designed to bring the raw energy and nostalgic character of East Coast percussion into your productions. This project is more than just a collection of drum hits—it’s a story of experimentation, innovation, and creative rebirth, born from a pivotal moment in my studio.
The idea for URBAN BEATS sparked during a cover session of Rihanna’s “Consideration” from her 2016 album, ANTI. While interpreting the song, I found myself drawn to the raw, sampled quality of the drums. Instead of merely replicating a sound, I deconstructed and reimagined those beats, processing them to capture that gritty, slightly distorted vibe reminiscent of vintage 808 machines and beat pads. The result? A tightly curated collection of one-shot samples—including two kicks, two hi-hats, and one snare—each designed to deliver maximum impact.
One of the hallmarks of URBAN BEATS is the unique processing techniques that give these sounds their character. Let’s break down some of the magic behind these samples:
Gated Processing
Gated processing is a technique that involves truncating the natural reverb tail of a sound. Historically popularized in the ‘80s, this method creates a punchy, controlled sound that instantly grabs attention.
Controlled Distortion
Adding subtle, controlled distortion is like infusing digital precision with analog warmth. In the case of URBAN BEATS, a touch of distortion introduces a layer of grit and character without overwhelming the original sound. This delicate balance transforms clean digital hits into a sound with soul—evoking memories of early sampled beats while staying firmly rooted in modern production techniques.
Fully Processed
Don't worry about mangling these samples, they've already been processed for you! Simply throw them into your sampler, beat maker, or DAW, and you're ready to go. These are high-end, studio-quality, one-shot samples ready for the master. Just get started!
URBAN BEATS isn’t just about drum sounds—it’s about embracing a mindset of exploration and reinterpretation in music production and culture. Whether you’re dissecting the intricacies of gated hits, experimenting with tape and controlled distortion, or studying another's culture–there’s a lesson in every beat.
I invite you to dive into URBAN BEATS, experiment with the sounds, and let your creativity roam free. As you work with these samples, consider the techniques and inspirations behind them, and maybe even discover new ways to push your own sonic boundaries.
Happy writing, happy mixing, and may every beat you create tell its own story!
JOHNJHOHNFM
