Song Analysis: Breakdown of 'Smalltown Boy' by Bronski Beat
In an insightful deconstruction, Ski Oakenfull, the Head of Education and Development at a renowned music production company, delves into the key elements of Bronski Beat's iconic track, 'Smalltown Boy.' This detailed recreation and modern reinterpretation offers a fascinating look at the making of one of the most successful synth-pop anthems of the 80s.
Ski's deconstruction closely adheres to the original's signature synth-pop vibe, while infusing it with a contemporary twist. The core synth elements include Juno-style analog leads, arpeggiated bass synths, and lush chorus-laden pads. Ski uses virtual analog synths emulating Roland Juno-series synths to capture the track's distinctive tonal qualities.
The drums, a crucial part of the original's driving rhythm, are recreated using sampled drum hits or drum machine plugins emulating classic 80s drum machines like the LinnDrum or Roland TR-808/909. The electronic, slightly synthetic drum groove is maintained, layered with gated reverb for that spacious snare sound characteristic of the 80s synth-pop style.
To achieve the authentic 80s production aesthetic, Ski employs a variety of plugins. These include chorus, reverb, vintage synth emulation, compression, EQ, and analog saturation. Tape saturation or analog warmth plugins are used to give the mix an authentic vintage texture and slight harmonic distortion reminiscent of 80s recordings.
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The classic synths used to create 'Smalltown Boy' include the Korg Trident and Yamaha DX7. To obtain the acapella, Ski used an online vocal isolation tool, Acapella Extractor. The track was distributed via Forbidden Fruit, a UK sub-label of London Records.
During the deconstruction, Ski discusses the track's chord progressions and bassline, offering valuable insights into the songwriting process. He records the main melody, detailing his choice of plugin and the effects used to recreate the anthem's infectious sound. Ski uses Ableton Push II and Native Instruments' Battery to program the retro 80s drums into Ableton Live for the deconstruction.
Released in 1982, 'Smalltown Boy' appears on Bronski Beat's debut album, The Age of Consent. This deconstruction offers a unique opportunity to learn from a master producer and gain a deeper understanding of the techniques used to create one of the most beloved synth-pop tracks of all time.
In the detailed deconstruction of 'Smalltown Boy' by Ski Oakenfull, he employs virtual analog synths like Ableton Push II and Native Instruments' Battery for programming and creating the retro 80s drums, mirroring the electronic drum groove of the original. Just as he meticulously recreates the track's distinctive vibe, one can immerse in the art of technology-driven education and self-development through various online courses offered by the same music production company, covering topics like producing, mixing, and mastering music.
