Introduction
Are you a music producer or a passionate drummer looking for the most inspiring drum library to enhance your tracks? Look no further because I am here to introduce you to Soft Drums, a remarkable drum library created by Jon Meyer. In this article, we will explore the features and benefits of Soft Drums, as well as provide step-by-step instructions for making the most out of this incredible instrument. So get ready to take your drumming skills to the next level!
Soft Drums: A Brief History
Several years ago, Jon Meyer released a free contact instrument called Soft Drums. The instrument received widespread acclaim from the music community, with many users sending tracks they had created using the sound. Meyer knew from the beginning that he wanted to revisit this concept and create a more comprehensive and inspiring drum library. And thus, Soft Drums was born.
The Main Interface
Let’s start by exploring the main interface of Soft Drums. The library offers a wide range of drum sounds, including kick drums with various textures such as fluffy, stiff, and firm. The snare drums are categorized as satin, fuzzy, and silky, while the toms are described as velvet, cushy, and plush. It’s worth noting that all of these sounds are duplicated in an octave above, allowing for the possibility of playing two-hand parts on the snare. This feature is a game-changer and a must-have for any drum sample library.
The Softness Factor
Soft Drums is a traditional drum kit that was recorded using a unique technique. Jon Meyer used fluffy beater tea towels on the drums, creating a soft and warm tone. These tea towels, which can be found in stores like Target, are thin and provide the perfect texture for achieving the desired softness. Meyer also used broomsticks to hit the drums gently, ensuring that the softness factor remained consistent throughout the recording. Softness has always been Meyer’s main goal for drums, and he has successfully achieved it with Soft Drums.
Learning the Instrument
For those new to Soft Drums, Jon Meyer has provided a helpful feature to aid in learning the instrument. By clicking on the camera icon, users can access snapshots that showcase different settings and sounds. This feature allows users to experiment and find their favorite drum configurations easily. Additionally, the library includes multiple round robins at different velocities, ensuring that every hit sounds unique. The dynamic range of the samples is also extensive, ranging from the quietest whispers to the loudest crashes.
Recording Expertise
The samples and loops included in Soft Drums were recorded by Joe Cameron, an incredibly talented drummer, producer, and engineer. Meyer praises Cameron’s skills and expertise, emphasizing that Soft Drums would not have been possible without his contribution. Cameron used a modified Cascade microphone, which provides an extended low-frequency response, resulting in a remarkable sound. The collaboration between Meyer and Cameron has truly elevated the quality of Soft Drums and made it a must-have for any serious musician.
Compatibility and Advanced Controls
Soft Drums is not an NKS library and requires the full version of Kontakt 6 or higher. However, once you have access to the advanced page, a whole new world of options opens up. This page allows you to tweak and customize the drum sounds to your liking. It features controls for the individual drums, as well as buses for all the close mics, overheads, and rooms. The flexibility provided by these controls ensures that you can achieve the perfect mix and match of sounds for your tracks.
Enhancing the Sounds: Reverb and Compression
Soft Drums also offers additional features such as reverb and compression. The reverb control allows users to add space and depth to the drum sounds, with various presets available to suit different styles and preferences. The compression feature, on the other hand, adds punch and character to the drums, making them stand out in the mix. While some users might prefer using their own plugins or outboard gear for compression, Soft Drums provides a convenient option for those who prefer an all-inclusive solution.
Unleash Your Creativity with Loops
In addition to the individual drum sounds, Soft Drums includes a wide range of loops recorded at different tempos. These loops can be used as-is or chopped up into smaller sections to fit your tracks. They add a unique rhythmic element to your compositions and can be manipulated or layered with other instruments and percussion elements. Soft Drums also offers one-shot samples and symbols, providing even more creative possibilities for your music.
Conclusion
Soft Drums is, without a doubt, the most inspiring drum library you will ever come across. Designed with attention to detail and a focus on softness and versatility, this instrument will take your music productions to new heights. Whether you are a professional musician, a hobbyist, or a music producer looking for high-quality drum sounds, Soft Drums is the perfect choice for you. So don’t miss out on this incredible tool and start creating your next masterpiece today!
