motown/funk drum sound

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The Garage

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how do the techniques for capturing a funk/motown drum sound differ from that of rock? i want that really tight sound, like on al green's "lean on me." i understand it has a lot to do with playing, but is there a particular recording/mixing technique anyone would suggest? thanks.
-teddy
 
For what ever its worth:

For a really dry snare sound, cut another drum head so its diameter is just a little less than the snare you are recoding w/ and lay it on the batter head of the snare.

I have also found that getting a pretty dead sounding kick (whole pillow) is good for the 70's funk kinda sound.
 
Yes, keep everything dry, dry, dry. Reverb is not at all funky.
 
True dat, True Dat! Dr Bell

reverb is most unfunky!

unless, of course its a big echo-y reverb at the end of a "everybody, GET DOWNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNN!!!!!"
 
The film "Standing in the Shadows of Motown" has tons of studio footage.

You can see where they place mics, as well as some of the outboard. Don't know if it'll help, but everyone who cares about music should see this movie.

I believe it came out on video within the last month. If its not out yet, it will be very soon.

Good Luck
Chris
 
So its out, huh?

I might have to go pick it up on DVD :D

Hope it helped..

Chris
 
I also have the DVD,also be aware that those Motown sessions had two, sometimes 3 drummers, playing interlocking parts.

Great DVD!
 
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