Tone Profile

A raw and powerful, yet somewhat controlled, drum sound with a good balance of attack and sustain. The drums are punchy and present without being overly aggressive, fitting the dynamic shifts of the song.

Production Credits

Signal Chain

Recording Notes

• The drum sound for "Lithium" was captured using a combination of close-miking techniques and room microphones to create a balance of direct punch and ambient space.
• The kick drum was likely dampened to control sustain and emphasize the attack.
• Overheads were used to capture a balanced representation of the entire kit, with particular attention to the cymbals.
• Room microphones were used to add space and depth to the overall drum sound, contributing to the song's dynamic range.

Recreation Tips

• Start with a well-tuned drum kit, focusing on a balanced and resonant sound.
• Experiment with different microphone placements to find the right balance of direct sound and room ambience.
• Use subtle compression to control dynamics and enhance the overall punch of the drums.
• Consider using EQ to shape the tone of individual drums and create a cohesive sound.
• Use samples of similar-sounding drum kits for reference, and be prepared to make adjustments to your recording and mixing techniques to achieve the desired result.

Recommended Gear

• Ludwig Drum Kit(drums)
• Neumann U87(mic)
• Shure SM57(mic)