This will be a short and sweet blog surmising some really amazing works of production that I've taken particular note of in 2020. I'll provide a link to each track on YouTube and quickly note down what part of the song really gets me going!
Maverick Sabre - Preach [prod. Prashant Mistry]
I'm sure you'll agree that the bursting choir is so lush, the production skills and techniques applied to this song are very respectful of the compositional materials - and they serve the song perfectly, making the choir sections particularly beautiful! A good combination of skilful reverb application and intelligent frequency control.
dodie - Guiltless [prod. Joe Rubel]
Primarily the heavy handed pressure during the choruses is why this song is here. Honestly, I don't think I'd ever heard something quite like what was happening during the choruses of this song. What a fantastic production exercise in getting everything to blend so well during that chorus (a cello and moog synthesiser amongst other things!)
Foxwarren - "To Be" [prod. Jon Anderson]
Such character! I might be wrong about my placement, but the vocals sound as if they belong in the 60's with their slight analogue feeling or dirt. This song speaks to me as a combination of a masterclass in character, paired with a modern mix balance - prioritising the lower frequencies for a lush impact. A song I've been listening to for months now.
Joe Kaplow - I Said I Was Going And I Went [prod. Joe Kaplow and Brian "I" McNamara]
A track that is wise beyond its years. There's something about the production aesthetic that's being portrayed here which enhances the emotion of Joe's vocals tenfold. Tape hiss, slightly low-passed guitar and vocals, and some lovely rich and warm brass. An exemplar for acoustic music. I can only hope to produce a piece of music this beautiful in the future.
Gregory Porter - Real Truth [prod. Troy Miller]
This song just accomplishes so much. Such smooth strings, groove from the kit. Not a single thing has been misplaced. Naturally this is a product of a very expensive production - but it's definitely something to aim for quality-wise. As I'm in the process of planning a live recording event, this will stay in the back of my mind as a fantastic piece of hybridised music.
Je te laisserai des mots - Patrick Watson
Yes the strings sound amazing, and no doubt because the arrangement itself is gorgeous. But the production quality of the entire song is so lush, respectful and fulfilling. The strings are provided extra motion with a reverb washing off them. A common feature within these lush productions is that the 'magic is in the midrange' as they say. The high-frequency range never overpowers the listener, and the bass only supports the emotion and richness that the midrange provides.