Son Lux, Everything Everywhere All At Once, and How Sound Design and Production Connect
Love Music More · hosted by Luke F. Walton (Scoobert Doobert) · Solo episode
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Topics discussed
Host note
Son Lux does something most producers don't: they treat the sound design layer and the production layer as the same decision, not consecutive ones. Their Oscar nomination for *Everything Everywhere All At Once* brought mainstream attention, but the approach is what makes the music last.
I dig into how they source percussion from physical manipulation (organic low-end instead of a kick drum), what binaural recording opens up when you run it into computational tools, and why the blend of analog richness and digital processing is where the most interesting territory is right now.
Selected moments
- Introduction to Son Lux's impact 0:01 Introducing Son Lux and their recent Oscar nomination.
- Sound design evolution 2:15 I explain the importance of blending sound design and record production.
- Innovative percussion techniques 1:35 I discuss using unconventional methods in drumming.
- Creating unique sounds 3:06 Examples of how sounds can be sourced from everyday actions.
- Emphasis on organic sounds 6:47 The relationship between organic sounds and synths.
- Binaural recording benefits 12:46 Exploring the immersive experience of binaural recordings.
- Closing thoughts 16:34 Wrapping up with a reflection on the creative process.
Selected excerpts
Their music was very dramatic and cinematic... But there was something deeper to it; it wasn't just sweeping string arrangements.
Some of us are pioneers in melding the worlds of sound design and production at the same time.
You can create this organic low-end instead of just putting a beater to a kick drum.
It actually opens up new avenues and venues because you're not like having to spend your entire day... just cutting up little bits of tape and splicing them together.
But you take that input that's really rich analog binaural and then you can run it into these computational tools and create something truly transcendent and weird.
FAQ
What is Son Lux known for?
Son Lux is known for their innovative blend of sound design and traditional music production, particularly highlighted by their Oscar-nominated score for *Everything Everywhere All At Once*.
How does sound design impact modern music?
Sound design impacts modern music by allowing artists to explore new textures and methods of sound creation, pushing the boundaries of traditional music production and enhancing the listener's experience.
What are some techniques used in sound design?
Techniques in sound design include using everyday sounds as instruments, binaural recording for immersive experiences, and innovative percussion methods that challenge conventional approaches.
Curated notes only — no public transcript. Listen on the links above.