Get Punchier Drums With This One Trick

Drums are one of the most important elements in keeping energy in a track. When drums start sounding dull and flat, it takes a noticeable hit on the quality of the track. Given this, we’re here to explain one trick that will bring life back into your drums.

Parallel compression, something you’ve probably heard of, can achieve tremendous results when applied to your drum track. The process is very simple.

1. Make a duplicate of your drum track
2. Insert your favorite compressor (mine is the Waves H-Comp).
3. Compress to taste (try a slow attack time) and blend with the original track

After blending with the original, your drums will have more body and a lot of punch. Remember not to over-do it. Listen to the drums with respect to the whole mix.