Breakdown and build-up formulas
The breakdown and build-up are key to the success of your drop, so let’s examine them in detail. A typical stripped-back breakdown features just a few key sounds, bringing in more as the section progresses. This leads into the build-up, where sounds are intensified and repeated with increasing frequency, building tension that’s then released in the drop.
One of the most powerful and fundamental tools for energy flow is volume automation – even subtle changes applied to key elements can alter the mood. For more organic results, record automation in real time, riding the faders so you react to the track as you hear it.
While the breakdown is perfect for debuting key song ideas, it can just as well consist of elements not found elsewhere. It’s also a great place to showcase extreme sound design and sampling. An arrhythmic, atonal soundscape could be the perfect breakdown for a dystopian DnB brooder… or how about a lengthy speech sample? Elite Forces’ Fear Of Death ( bit.ly/EFfod) uses this ploy, with instrumentation mirroring the tension-building speech.
Breakdowns can even play with timing and tempo (though DJs may not thank you for this!). Cyantific’s freaky Space Zombie ( bit.ly/CyanSZ) rolls out of the first drop’s shuffling 174bpm swing-step into a straight break with a tick-tock kick and snare. The tempo ramps upwards, creating a frantic build that resolves to a spooky 140bpm disco groove.
So how long should your break/build be? It ultimately comes down to what feels right for the track, but if you’re stuck, try an eight-bar breakdown and eight-bar build. This is about as short as you can go, so a good place to begin, and from which to elaborate on if needed.