The question
How can the character of hardware and the flexibility of software coexist in a portable electronic music workflow? The final university project connects practical EP production with research and a survey of music producers.
Music production · Research / 01
METANOIA
Analog & Digital
The project "METANOIA: The Evolution of Analog and Digital in Electronic Music" explores the ongoing debate between analog hardware and digital software in the production of electronic music. Rooted in personal experience, the research delves into how each medium influences music creation, especially in terms of sound design and production versatility.
PROJECT CONTEXT
- Setting
- Final university project · Music Technologies and Production · University of East London
- Challenge
- Develop an electronic EP while investigating the balance between analog character, digital flexibility and a portable production workflow.
- Deliverable
- An EP, a producer survey and a written research report, connecting composition, vocal production, stem mixing and mastering.
The process
The production combines acoustic, hardware and software sources. The report documents the Roland Fantom 6, vocal processing, stem-based mixing in Ableton, SSL channel-strip emulations and hands-on control through the SSL UC1 and UF1.
The result
A completed EP and written research report. Mixing and mastering were approached across the body of work to preserve a connection between tracks. Maggie Pikesley contributed songwriting guidance and collaboration, as acknowledged in the report.
FROM THE ORIGINAL PROJECT
Inside the process.
Sessions, tools and moments from the work.
Read the original project notes +
The project "METANOIA: The Evolution of Analog and Digital in Electronic Music" explores the ongoing debate between analog hardware and digital software in the production of electronic music. Rooted in personal experience, the research delves into how each medium influences music creation, especially in terms of sound design and production versatility.
Initially, I relied on digital tools during his high school years due to their convenience and accessibility. However, after moving to the UK and discovering the world of analog equipment, he became captivated by its unique sound capabilities. This led to a critical question: in today’s rapidly evolving music industry, how vital is it for producers to have mobile equipment that allows for flexibility and travel?
To address this question, I have engaged in collaborative efforts with fellow musicians and sought to find a balance between the unique qualities offered by analog gear and the practicality of digital tools. The project culminated in the creation of his own EP, utilising both his digital software and analog hardware, despite time constraints that limited his access to university resources.
Through his university research, he examined the historical context of electronic music production, sound design innovations, and the implications of the digital era on artist careers. This application of academic insights into his practical productions allowed Emanuele to take a deeper dive into the artistic and technical aspects of music creation, ultimately enriching his work and understanding of the electronic music landscape.
Project material: Download original report ↓