Metro-Mix Production Process

So for this module we were given the task of applying a soundtrack to an allocated 1 minute clip from the anime version of metropolis. In order to achieve this we had time to learn Propellor Head's 'Reason' and gain some basic Knowledge of creating and recording custom midi sounds using the virtual rack mounted effects available within the software.

After some issues with reason to begin with I was close to scrapping the idea of using it, but fortunately I over came the problems and was able to use it effectively. Using a midi keyboard I was able to create a range of sounds using a mixture of effects and synths. The majority of sounds created were made using the 'Thor' synth and various patches which were then run through a range of fuzz, distortions and reverbs to achieve the mechanical and electrical sounds throughout the video.

A number of created sounds within reason were edited further, by exporting them into logic where I overlaid even more effects. For example I used a 'RingShifter' effect to manipulated self created reason samples to change their frequency so it made it sound like samples were playing in reverse and gave an overall electronic feel. The ending of the clip where it sounds like the machine is winding down was made by strumming a muted string on guitar to get a loud banging sound and then was able to gain feedback from the amp. This was then sent into logic and had the 'Ring Shifter' applied so it sounds like it is slowly winding down and fading out.

Once I had all the samples and sounds required I placed them all into Final Cut and edited in time with the visual content. I did alter some of the channels within Final Cut so that certain samples would play in the left or right channels to achieve even more of a stereo effect.