TONEDB

keyboard from “deja vu” by olivia rodrigo | ToneDB

deja vu

olivia rodrigo

keyboard

85% ai confidence

Tone Profile

A dreamy, slightly saturated synth pad with a prominent, evolving low-pass filter creating a nostalgic, lo-fi texture.

Signal Chain

Instrument: Mellotron (likely emulation like Arturia Mellotron V or Spectrasonics Keyscape)

Amp: Synth Engine/Sampler

Processing: Low-Pass Filter (with automation/envelope), Saturation/Distortion (subtle), Chorus/Vibrato (for pitch warble), Reverb

Other: Possibly layered with a simple analog synth patch (e.g., Prophet-style saw/square wave). Filter cutoff automation is key to the sound's movement.

Recording Notes

  • Direct input recording from synth or DAW plugins.
  • Significant automation applied to the filter cutoff frequency throughout the song.
  • Subtle pitch modulation (vibrato or tape emulation) adds vintage character.
  • Use of saturation adds warmth and slight grit.

Recreation Tips

  • Start with a Mellotron flute or string sample, or a basic analog synth waveform (saw or square).
  • Apply a resonant low-pass filter (24dB/octave slope).
  • Automate the filter cutoff frequency to open and close, mimicking the song's dynamics.
  • Add light saturation for warmth (tape or tube emulation works well).
  • Use a chorus or vibrato effect with a slow rate and moderate depth for pitch instability.
  • Add a medium-to-long hall or plate reverb.

Sources