Drums in The Mars Volta - Francis The Mute

Posted: Wed Apr 13, 2005 7:26 am

Hey everyone,

Probably a dumb question that I may already know the answer to, but I thought I'd ask anyhow.

I really like the drum sound on this album, it's got a Zeppelin sound, but modern at the same time. I'm curious as to whether I can get something similar to it with the drums that I have, or is it pretty useless to try. I have an old Ludwig set from 1964, but it is not a big kit like Bonham's. My kick is only a 20"(with a 4" hole in the head), and I have a 12" and 14" toms. I also have a 14"x5 Supraphonic from 1967. Right off the bat, I'm not using a 26" kick, big toms, or the 14"x6.5 Supraphonic that he used... so I won't be surprised if I can't get anything to sound like it.

I guess my question is, knowing what I have and what I like, is there any way to get something similar in sound with the equipment I have when telling the producer/engineer what I want - or am I just going to sound stupid? If you were the engineer, would you tell me... sorry, there's no way? Just curious... I love that sound.

Thanks,

Tom

Posted: Wed Apr 13, 2005 9:49 am

read this:

http://mixonline.com/recording/interviews/audio_mars_volta/index.html

it's about the de-loused-record but it might help you

Posted: Wed Apr 13, 2005 9:59 am

Thanks,

Looks like an interesting read, but the actual drum sounds in the first and second album are completely different. I still do appreciate you taking the time to help me out however! Smile

Tom

Posted: Thu Apr 14, 2005 10:46 am

Is it just me or is their new record hard on the ears? I find it very fatiguing to listen to. I always seem to be grabbing the volume on my car deck and turning it waaaaay down..... Too bad because I really dig it...

Posted: Thu Apr 14, 2005 11:01 am

Yeah I find that as well... but I still dig the drum sounds. Hopefully someone will have some insight for me.

Posted: Thu Apr 14, 2005 11:10 am

I most certainly am not the most qualified to answer this question, being neither a drummer nor more than a hobbyist engenieer......but to me the drums sound mic'ed with a minimal amount of mic's....maybe 4-6 or a few more for room mic's.....as for the drums themselves, i can't say.....but they are in great shape, in tune, no rattling or buzzing...and in a good sounding room.... may give you a place to start, hopefully someone more experienced can take over....or tell me im wrong...?

Posted: Thu Apr 14, 2005 11:15 am

I'd also like to comment on how bad the second album sounds compared to their first. I believe Rick Rubin had nothing to do with the second album, is that right?

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