Need Mastering Advice

S

SoulCaptive

New member
Hey Guys,

I am working on releasing an EP in Early Summer and this is the third, most complex track that I've produced for it. I am going for a chilled-out dubby/synthy beach pop vibe that I'm really enjoying making but it can be a little difficult to nail down. My issue with the track I'm currently working on is a general hollow feeling throughout. I cant get the sounds to thicken up and can't settle on what the best instrument would be to use for my chords other than the bassline that's currently holding the track together. I've messed around with compressing the lead sounds, added a vocal sample in the finale and used plenty of Serum Synths in the chorus to help liven it up, but I'm still coming up a little short. I feel that the problem could lie in how elementary and robotic the lead guitar sounds despite running through a Distortion VST and Amp Plug-in, but I also have a little bit of ear fatigue and need an outside opinion. This is meant to be the titular track on the EP so I really want to get it right. Any advice you have on how I can better master or arrange it to be more cohesive and professional sounding would be awesome. To hear this track please follow the first link below; for insight into the vibe of the other songs on the EP please see the second link for "Baby Bloomer"

Thanks in advance for your input :)

Solstice: Solstice by Soul Captive | Free Listening on SoundCloud

Baby Bloomer: Baby Bloomer by Soul Captive | Free Listening on SoundCloud
 
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Howdy,

So in my headphones it sounds like there could be more going on in the sub and mid frequencies, how does it look running through a spectrum analyzer? I think if you worked with the attack on the lead guitar; (do it via midi or just fade in each sample) it would have a more natural feel, move pieces around so it has some "swing" (our human timing isn't perfect, and other humans vibe with that imperfection). Try bringing some of that hand drum percussion to the front, maybe even a break down featuring it. I think a vocal piece in there will work, but finding the "right fit" is something of a challenge for me, with enough time invested I think you'll find it.
Hit the tube and search separating bass frequencies (should get some returns, namely mr. bill); it isn't always to be applied, but that is how i'm starting to get a more unique bass sound that I have more control over and fill in frequencies that are lacking instead of adding more instruments.
Anyhow, good work. I checked out Baby Bloomer as well; great tune. Liked and followed. Looking forward to hearing more.
 
The kick is definitely too loud. Especially when it's by itself. Take off around -2 to -3dbs. This will also help with clarity. A little spectral enhancing in the UPPER Mids will also help with clarity.

I wish you the best with your music!

John Rogers
JR Mastering
 
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