Audio assignment - Music production

For this production, I chose hardgroove techno, a style built around a solid, rolling rhythm that constantly drives energy forward. The foundation lies in the drums: a round, tight kick with plenty of punch, supported by percussion elements like shakers, hi-hats, claps, and of course, bongos. The bongos add a swinging, almost tribal feel, while small timing shifts create an organic groove. By layering multiple percussion sounds, the elements complement each other and keep the track pushing ahead continuously.

An important aspect of the track is call and response. Instead of using vocals, I applied this concept with short percussive sounds and unusual FX that answer each other. This creates a rhythmic dialogue that adds variation without breaking the flow. The FX are short, lightly modulated, and mainly fill the space between the drums without taking over the mix.

The arrangement develops by gradually adding or removing layers, allowing the tension to build while keeping the groove tight. Automation plays a big role here: filters, volumes, and effects move subtly over time so that repetitive loops stay alive and never feel static. Panning is also important; some percussive hits and FX are placed slightly off-center, creating a wider stereo image and giving the mix more space to breathe.

The choice of 144 BPM was deliberate. It feels faster and more energetic than 140, but remains tighter and easier to control than 150. At 144 BPM, the track maintains that signature hardgroove roll, fast enough to excite, but not so quick that the steady rhythm becomes chaotic. This tempo keeps the groove strong, danceable, and perfectly suited for the kind of percussive patterns that define the genre.

Finally, I mixed and mastered the track with a focus on clarity and punch. Light compression keeps the dynamics under control, EQ ensures balance, and a transparent limiter brings up the overall loudness without sacrificing the quality or impact of the sound.

BRUM · AV

The structure of hardgroove techno is built around continuous motion and rhythmic evolution. Rather than relying on big breakdowns or melodic changes, the energy flows through subtle transitions and layered percussion. A typical arrangement starts with a solid foundation of kick and bass, establishing the groove early on. From there, percussive elements like shakers, toms, and bongos are added in phases, creating tension and movement without ever losing the steady pulse.

Reflection

I really enjoyed working on this project, especially since I’ve been making this kind of music for a while. It felt familiar, but it also gave me the chance to dive deeper into my sound again. It was great to get back into producing, shaping the structure, and focusing on the mix.

Throughout the process, I experimented with new ideas — like using more automation, adding dynamics to the percussion, and trying out different FX to make the track more interesting. This gave the track a fresh direction and helped me learn new techniques while staying true to a style that feels natural to me.