Producertech – Drum & Bass Production with Maschine

Back by popular demand, Astrophonica label owner DJ Fracture returns with a brand new course for Native Instrument's Maschine, uncovering the secrets behind producing his distinctive style of Drum and Bass. Focusing mainly on the hardware, the tutorials go through the creation of each rhythmic and melodic part within a track, using a range of pad modes and techniques, before concluding with lessons that focus on the newer aspects of the Maschine version 2 software, like the drum synth and mixer section.

With production expertise that spans the last 13 years, having released on renowned labels like Metalheadz, Hospital and Droppin' Science, and having a passion for teaching and sharing knowledge, DJ Fracture has proven to be a welcome addition to the skilled team of Producertech tutors. As a follow up to his hugely inspiring Ableton Live course from last year, this latest endeavour into the world of online learning focuses on one of the more recent additions to his studio, Maschine.

In the first few lengthy lessons, Fracture focuses on the main elements of the track, demonstrating how the all important groove is constructed. Using a combination of step sequencing and playing live, patterns are developed, and sounds are carefully mixed and processed, with every action being carried out from the hardware control surface. After the main break is made from layered and compressed samples, sliced and resequenced loops, and sub and tops layers, catchy elements like pitched percussion and musical pad phrases are added to the arrangement, helping create a cohesive flow and add interest and originality to the track.

Once the bulk of the arrangement has been laid out, almost entirely without the use of the mouse, Fracture moves over to the software, taking a look at some of the newer features in Maschine version 2, such as how to beef up drums with the Drum Synth and numerous techniques for refining and polishing the mix. As with all Producertech courses, the final project made throughout the lessons is supplied as a download, along with 200MB of additional rude Drum and Bass samples from the extensive Loopmasters collection. Check out the trailer, excerpt and track from the course on the Media tab now.