anonymous
11 May 2005
In the 70's 80's and 90's I used The Linn Drum and Akai's MPC series for drums in most songs. Most Top 40 I listened to back then used programmed drums with midi.
Why? Once you appreciate how simple and, IMO great quality samples sound in pop music, it is really hard to look back. All I can say is, thank you to Roger Linn.
A mass amount of writer's know what I mean but never talk about this studio gem.
Comments
I can't imagine "not looking back" on real drums.. that is kind
I can't imagine "not looking back" on real drums.. that is kind of ridiculous. For certain styles (rock,folk,jazz,punk,indie rock/shoegazer,old school funk), a real drummer is a necessity.
I really really love the sound of the Linn machine for pop/dance/rap though - it just screams 'dance!'. Sadly, I have no money for one, and the style of music I do really requires real drums, so money must be tucked away in microphones.
I am kind of perturbed that you think it is "really hard to look back" on real drums though - a drummer can add a LOT of flavor even as a complement to synthesized drums. Modern radio powerpop employs this all the time: drum machine in verses, Kenny Aronoff in the chorus. Or, layer the two. But look at bands like the Roots or the New Deal - real drummer with the style of linn drums - and its very effective in what they do. They create some seriously infectious and unique beats on the kit that really wouldn't be the same coming from samples. And you just look foolish without a real drummer doing a live show.
Again, I like the Linn! I like samples! Just wanted to balance it out here..