Philip George is launching his new Stronger EP on PIV Records, showcasing his evolving house music style. The Nottingham producer has included two original tracks along with a remix from label regulars Retrouve, demonstrating his exploration of garage influences and minimal house.
Production Style and Influences
George’s recent works have featured collaborations and remixes for various artists, allowing him to hone his production techniques. His latest track “Stronger” highlights his focus on soulful vocals and carefully controlled drum loops, avoiding reliance on a large array of synthesizers and instead opting for a more streamlined approach with fewer plugins.
Key Plugins Used
George discusses four specific plugins that were instrumental in shaping “Stronger.” Among these, Omnisphere stands out, particularly for its extensive library of recorded percussion, which he utilized to enhance the soulful vocal elements. He emphasizes the importance of selecting the right sounds early in the production process to streamline the workflow.
Effects for Sound Enhancement
The Valhalla Space Modulator has been incorporated into his sound design as a flanger alternative, adding depth to simple sounds. George highlights its versatility, noting that it can be effectively used across various genres, particularly house music, giving elements a fuller stereo presence.
Transient Control
Waves’ Smack Attack is another staple in George’s production toolkit, providing control over drum transients. This plugin helps to manage the intensity of claps and drum loops, allowing space for other sounds to blend seamlessly within the mix.
Shaping Sounds with LFO Tool
The final key plugin, the LFO Tool, serves as a manual audio shaper that can be applied across bass and synth layers. It allows George to fine-tune how sounds interact rhythmically, enhancing the track’s overall clarity while achieving a more pronounced mix.
Production Tips
Tip 1: Commitment to Craft
George stresses the importance of dedication in music production, urging aspiring artists to invest time into their craft rather than expecting quick results.
Tip 2: Sample Quality
Selecting high-quality samples can reduce the need for excessive processing, particularly in drum tracks, which can help maintain the authentic character of the music.
Tip 3: Master Your Tools
Familiarity with a preferred synthesizer is crucial, as a strong identity in sound can often stem from mastering a singular instrument rather than relying on multiple sources.
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