The Laohu
Offline
Utah

I've been working with LSDJ since about February and I think I've got a decent feel for it. However, I usually incorporate it into a setup with vocals and guitar, and I feel the technical level of the chipmusic takes a backseat to overall blend as a result. In other words, I want to improve my LSDJ technical skills. So, here's a track that I've been tinkering with that I think could benefit from your excellent peer review. One idea I've had that might help would be to do more with the wav channel. Sometimes I fall in love with the deep, gruff bass from the wav pu1 combo, I guess.

http://soundcloud.com/thelaohu/imminent

Last edited by The Laohu (Aug 7, 2012 1:53 am)

VCMG
Offline
California

I think that overall this song could benefit from a little variation in the harmony and bass. That wav+pu1 combo sure is nice, but something else besides that would be even better.

As for improving your technical skills, Roboctopus's LSDJ & You column is nice for learning some tips and tricks. For doing more with the wave channel, I suggest reading episodes 2, 4, 5, 6, and maybe 7.

Auxcide
Offline
The Multiverse ::: [CA, Sac]

I agree with everything Vince said. It could use more variation. Maybe go without the pu1 backup sometimes then bring it back in for certain parts.

The Laohu
Offline
Utah

Auxcide, VCMG, thanks for taking a moment to impart wisdom. I'm a big fan of Roboctopus' LSDJ & You posts and re-reading them today reminded me of so many things I need to do better/more often. As per your advice, I've attempted to change up the bass line a bit, dropped the pu1 bass at one point, added in a bunch of little stuff, modified the wav for PWM as well as drawing a custom waveform, and added some mild panning effects. It is far from perfect, but a lot changed.

http://soundcloud.com/thelaohu/imminentv2

dsv101
Offline
Medina, Ohio

Dude, just checked out your soundcloud and I LOVE what i heard big_smile

The Laohu
Offline
Utah

I'm taking the lack of input as a sign that I'm headed in the right direction. This song has definitely improved and I'm really happy with how it is now. I've made a few more changes, mostly small tweaks to things that bothered me, but also a whole new section. If anybody con still give criticism, I'd like some feedback on two main points.
1. How are the transitions? Smooth?
2. Does it ever sound too cluttered? Sometimes when I keep adding things, I worry that there is too much going on.

Thanks!

http://soundcloud.com/thelaohu/imminentv3

SketchMan3
Offline
NC in the US of America

I like it. It's very dramatic and seems to tell a story.

Jotie
Offline

Music-wise it's great.
Lsdj wise I'd say a little more action with commands to mix things up a bit. P, L, R, V, alternating pulse with W cmd, stuff like that.

But maybe that's just me, I also started January/February.