Here is my composition for contextual studies 1. I decided to create a track that resonates to me and which is similar to the sort of sound I would go for when DJing. I used a combination of various methods of synthesis to create this atmospheric two-step garage track.

I started by sampling an organ sound to give me a head start and an overall theme to the track.

I then started browsing through Alchemy on logic until I found a sound that I considered fitting for the vibe. I ended up with this ethereal pad that I thought would sit nicely under the mix. After a little touch up on the reverb and delay, I thought that the pad didn’t need to much processing and was already pleased with the sound. I used the crossfader to create dynamic contrast. On the whole, I relied mainly on my ears to create the sound I wanted instead of delving deep into the technicality of this synth.

To make my piece more textually interesting, I created this distant electric, arpagiated piano chord. This was also found on the alchemy synth in logic, this time, taking a little more time refining the sound to how I desired. After achieving the desired sound, I then used a variety of effects to Brighton the sound and rhythm such as echo, reverb and filter.

To make the bass sounds, I used serum 2 to create this reversed “warp” bass. Starting off with a BSOD-square and putting a filter on it. I then attached an envelope to the filter cut off. After lowering the attack on the envelope, I discovered this “warp” sound that was very fitting to the track. I then adjusted certain settings on the filter and added effects on serum such as distortion and chorus to make the bass sound fuller.

Here is the track displayed on my DAW (logic)