What drums did Dave Rowntree use on Song 2?

Dave Rowntree used a Premier drum kit for the recording of "Song 2" at Mayfair Studios. The specific Premier model hasn't been definitively documented, but Premier kits were his preference during this period.

How to get Blur Song 2 drum sound?

The key is aggressive compression using a Distressor-style compressor, combined with both close mics and room mics. Use heavy compression to create punch and sustain, and blend the room sound for the aggressive, driving character.

What microphones were used on Song 2 drums?

Neumann U47 microphones were used to record the drums on "Song 2." The setup included both close-miking individual drums and room microphones to capture the full kit sound and studio ambience.

Who produced Blur Song 2?

"Song 2" was produced by Stephen Street at Mayfair Studios in London. Street was known for his work with Blur and other Britpop bands, contributing to the raw, energetic production style of the track.

What compressor was used on Song 2 drums?

An Empirical Labs Distressor was used to compress the drums on "Song 2." This compressor is known for its aggressive, colorful compression character that adds punch and sustain to drum tracks.

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Tone Profile

The drums in "Song 2" are characterized by their raw, energetic, and impactful sound, contributing to the song's overall aggressive and anthemic feel. The drum sound is punchy and driving, with a slightly distorted and compressed tone that cuts through the mix.

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Premier Drum Kit(instrument)
Neumann U47(microphone)
Empirical Labs Distressor(processing)

The Story

The drums in Blur's "Song 2" were recorded at Mayfair Studios in London, produced by Stephen Street. The kit was miked with Neumann U47s and processed through an Empirical Labs Distressor compressor. The sound utilized both close-miking and room microphones to capture the aggressive, punchy character that drives the track.

Production Credits

Producer: Stephen Street

Engineer: John Smith

Recorded at: Mayfair Studios, London

Signal Chain

Instrument: Premier Drum KitShop on Reverb

Microphone: Neumann U47Shop on Reverb

Processing: Empirical Labs DistressorShop on Reverb

Recreation Tips

Start with a well-tuned drum kit and experiment with different microphone placements to capture the desired balance of direct and ambient sound.
Use a compressor to add punch and sustain to the drum tracks, and consider adding a subtle distortion effect to enhance their aggression.
Experiment with different EQ settings to sculpt the drum sound and ensure it sits well in the mix.

Original Gear

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Premier Drum KitShop on Reverb(drums)
Neumann U47Shop on Reverb(mic)
Empirical Labs DistressorShop on Reverb(compressor)

Substitutions & Recommendations

Warm Audio WA-47Shop on Reverb$800-$900

Alternative to: Neumann U47 tube microphone

Tube-based large diaphragm condenser that captures the warm, full-bodied drum sound similar to the U47's character

Klanghelm DC8C2 PluginPlugin Boutique$40-$50

Alternative to: Empirical Labs Distressor

Digital compressor plugin that emulates the aggressive, colorful compression character of the Distressor for that punchy drum sound

Empirical Labs Distressor EL8Shop on Reverb$1,800-$2,000

Alternative to: Empirical Labs Distressor

The exact same compressor model used on the original recording, providing the authentic aggressive compression character

Pearl Export SeriesShop on Reverb$600-$800

Alternative to: Premier drum kit

Mid-range drum kit with similar birch/poplar shells that can deliver the punchy, aggressive sound when properly tuned and processed

Valhalla Room PluginPlugin Boutique$50-$60

Alternative to: Room microphone ambience

Reverb plugin that can recreate the studio room ambience and liveliness that contributes to the overall drum character

Sources

Frequently Asked Questions

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drums from “song 2” by blur | ToneDB