The ShadowMusic Web Community

Hi All,

I’ve been wondering what gear people use for creating backing tracks. Especially the excellent backings produced by the likes of Peter Korving, Roger Poulsson and Roger Allcock. I’m guessing something along the line of an arranger keyboard like the Yamaha Tyros or BIAB judging by the very nice ensemble of instruments making up the backing tracks. Anyone know?

Ian

I create my backing tracks from MIDI files that I can find on the Internet and edit them with software instruments, audio tracks and effects in Logic Pro X on my MacBook. I use the Traktor DJ software on my iPad to play the finished audio files (format .MP3 or .AAC).

Roger Paulsson use Yamaha drums, on the later BT:s synthetic drums, a Yamaha bass guitar, a Ibanes acoustic guitar and record in Studio one program.

/Bertil

Thanks very much for your replies.

Ian

Hi,

This is a question I have often asked. I know several members of this forum have used Band In a Box (namely Ecca and Sixchannel) and with some good results from what I have heard. However, what others use I have yet to learn. Given that they are frequent visitors to this forum I was hoping that Roger Allcock, Roger Paulsson or Pete Korving might just have given us an insight into how they work as their tracks are excellent. I too have adapted midi tracks using software instruments and also an arranger keyboard but the learning process can be somewhat lengthy and downloading midi files from the internet is a risky business as many free sites have links to malware within their pages.

Cheers,

Ian

scouserjoe2 wrote:--- downloading midi files from the internet is a risky business as many free sites have links to malware within their pages.

That's right, and I wouldn't dare to do that on Windows.

Hi Ian,

I was also hoping that the two Rogers and Peter Korving would share how they do their backing tracks and what kit they use.
I could probably manage BIAB and an Arranger Keyboard OK, but messing around with midi tracks is not on for me. I get confused enough already! I have quite a bit of experience with keyboards, but don’t have an Arranger version at the moment.

Ian

In order to make my backing tracks, all instruments (apart from guitar) are voiced using a Roland synthesizer.
The parts for the individual instruments (including drums) are written via a sequencer programme on my pc
and they are then recorded onto a Roland digital multi-track recorder.
Effects may be added to some tracks and then I mix all tracks to form the final recording.

Hi Roger,

Thank you very much for the info, it is very much appreciated.

Ian

Hi Ian.
I think you are missing a trick by not considering midi files. I make most of my own BT's using them, and if you buy files from a reputable company there are no problems with malware and they are roughly the same price as a good quality commercial BT. However a midi file gives you lots of flexibility such as changing instruments, tempo, key ect.
I use the the VST instruments that are provided with most DAW's plus additional commercial VST instruments.
I also use Band in a Box which uses midi and is an excellent programme.
If you fancy having a go at midi, drop me a PM.
Kind regards.
Stay safe.
Neil