Elliot Kim
To sound like MGMT, a band renowned for their psychedelic pop and electronic rock fusion, start by incorporating lush, layered synthesizers and dreamy, effects-laden guitar tones into your music. Experiment with unconventional song structures and melodic phrasing, often characterized by MGMT’s whimsical and introspective lyrical themes. Utilize vintage analog gear and modern digital tools to achieve their signature blend of retro and futuristic sounds. Focus on creating a rich, immersive atmosphere with reverb, delay, and phaser effects, while also incorporating dynamic shifts between soft, ethereal passages and explosive, anthemic choruses. Finally, embrace a sense of playfulness and experimentation, allowing your creativity to flow freely, much like MGMT’s eclectic and boundary-pushing approach to music production.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Genre Fusion | Psychedelic rock, indie electronic, synth-pop, experimental rock |
| Vocal Style | Laid-back, melodic, often with falsetto and harmonies |
| Lyrics | Surreal, abstract, introspective, and sometimes cryptic |
| Instrumentation | Synthesizers, guitars (clean and distorted), drums, bass, occasional orchestral elements |
| Production | Lush, layered, with a mix of organic and electronic sounds |
| Tempo | Varied, often mid-tempo with dynamic shifts |
| Melody | Catchy, dreamy, and often repetitive |
| Song Structure | Non-traditional, with experimental arrangements and unexpected transitions |
| Effects | Heavy use of reverb, delay, and phaser on vocals and instruments |
| Influences | 1960s psychedelia, 1980s new wave, electronic music, and world music |
| Mood | Nostalgic, euphoric, introspective, and occasionally melancholic |
| Key Signatures | Often in minor keys or modal scales |
| Rhythm | Groovy, with a focus on syncopation and unconventional patterns |
| Album Aesthetic | Conceptual, with cohesive themes and visual/sonic storytelling |
| Live Performance | Energetic, with improvisational elements and extended jams |
| Cultural References | Science fiction, philosophy, and counterculture |
| Timelessness | Blends retro and modern elements for a unique, timeless sound |
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What You'll Learn
- Master Psychedelic Effects: Use phaser, flanger, and delay pedals for signature shimmering, warping guitar tones
- Layered Synths: Combine analog synths with digital pads to create rich, dreamy soundscapes
- Vocal Techniques: Employ airy, slightly nasal vocals with reverb and occasional falsetto for ethereal quality
- Rhythmic Grooves: Focus on laid-back, mid-tempo drum patterns with subtle syncopation and shuffling hi-hats
- Melodic Songwriting: Craft catchy, repetitive melodies with unexpected chord progressions and surreal lyrical themes
Master Psychedelic Effects: Use phaser, flanger, and delay pedals for signature shimmering, warping guitar tones
Phaser, flanger, and delay pedals are the holy trinity of effects for achieving MGMT's signature psychedelic guitar tones. These pedals don't just add flavor; they transform your guitar into a shimmering, warping instrument capable of transporting listeners to another dimension. Think of the swirling, otherworldly textures in "Kids" or the hypnotic pulse of "Electric Feel" – these sounds are born from the interplay of these three effects.
Let's break down how to wield them effectively.
Phaser: The Shimmering Sweep
Imagine a prism bending light into a rainbow. A phaser does something similar to your guitar signal, creating a sweeping, shimmering effect. Start with a slow rate and low depth for a subtle, watery vibe, as heard in the verses of "Time to Pretend." Crank up the rate and depth for a more pronounced, spacey sweep, like the chorus of "Siberian Breaks." Experiment with different waveforms (sine, triangle, square) to find the character that best suits your sound.
Remember, less is often more – a touch of phaser can add depth without overwhelming the mix.
Flanger: The Jet-Powered Whoosh
Picture two tapes playing slightly out of sync, creating a swooshing, jet-like effect. That's the essence of a flanger. Use a short delay time and low feedback for a subtle, chorus-like effect, adding width and movement to your chords. For a more dramatic, psychedelic whoosh, increase the delay time and feedback, as heard in the bridge of "Flash Delirium." Be mindful of overdoing it – too much flanger can sound cheesy. Think of it as a secret weapon, adding a touch of interstellar flair when needed.
Delay: The Echoing Abyss
Delay is the cornerstone of psychedelic guitar tones, creating a sense of space and depth. A short, slapback delay can add a touch of vintage vibe, while longer delays with high feedback create endless, cascading echoes. For an MGMT-inspired sound, experiment with dotted eighth note or triplet delays, syncing them to your song's tempo. Try setting the delay time to match the song's BPM for a rhythmic, pulsating effect, as heard in the intro of "Alien Days."
The Magic Lies in the Combination
The true psychedelic magic happens when you combine these pedals. Try layering a phaser with a short delay for a shimmering, ethereal sound. Add a touch of flanger to create a swirling, hypnotic texture. Experiment with different pedal orders – phaser into flanger into delay can yield vastly different results than flanger into phaser into delay. There are no hard and fast rules, so trust your ears and let your creativity guide you. Remember, MGMT's sound is all about experimentation and pushing boundaries. Don't be afraid to get weird, get lost in the effects, and discover your own unique psychedelic voice.
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Layered Synths: Combine analog synths with digital pads to create rich, dreamy soundscapes
To capture the essence of MGMT's signature sound, start by layering analog synths with digital pads. This technique is central to their dreamy, psychedelic textures. Analog synths provide warmth and organic imperfections, while digital pads add expansive, shimmering atmospheres. Together, they create a sonic landscape that feels both nostalgic and futuristic—a hallmark of MGMT's style.
Begin by selecting an analog synth with a rich, fat sound, like a Moog Sub Phatty or a Korg Minilogue. Patch in a simple waveform, such as a sawtooth or square wave, and apply a low-pass filter with subtle resonance. Keep the modulation minimal—a touch of LFO on the filter cutoff will add movement without overwhelming the mix. For the digital pad, use a software instrument like Omnisphere or Absynth to design a lush, evolving sound. Opt for long attack times and generous reverb to create a sense of space. Layer these two elements, ensuring the analog synth sits in the midrange while the digital pad occupies the upper frequencies.
A critical step is balancing the levels and panning. The analog synth should dominate the mix, but the digital pad must provide a celestial backdrop. Pan the analog synth slightly off-center and place the pad hard left and right to create a wide stereo image. Experiment with automation to subtly shift the pad's volume or filter cutoff, adding dynamics without disrupting the dreamy vibe. This interplay between static and evolving elements mirrors MGMT's ability to blend familiarity with experimentation.
To elevate the soundscape, introduce subtle effects. A chorus pedal on the analog synth can thicken its tone, while a granular delay on the digital pad can create ethereal tails. Be cautious with reverb—too much can muddy the mix, but too little can make the layers feel disconnected. Aim for a reverb decay time of 2-3 seconds on the pad, with the analog synth slightly drier to maintain clarity. This approach ensures the layers cohere into a cohesive, immersive whole.
Finally, consider the arrangement. MGMT often uses layered synths as a foundation for their songs, allowing other elements like guitars and vocals to float above. Let the synths breathe during verses, then introduce additional layers or modulation during choruses to build tension and release. By mastering this balance, you’ll not only emulate MGMT's sound but also develop a versatile technique for crafting rich, dreamy soundscapes in your own productions.
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Vocal Techniques: Employ airy, slightly nasal vocals with reverb and occasional falsetto for ethereal quality
To capture the essence of MGMT's vocal style, start by embracing an airy, slightly nasal tone that feels effortless yet distinctive. This technique, often heard in tracks like "Kids" and "Electric Feel," creates a dreamy, detached quality that complements their psychedelic soundscapes. The airiness comes from maintaining a relaxed throat and allowing the voice to float rather than push, while the subtle nasality adds a unique character without overwhelming the mix.
Next, incorporate reverb to enhance the ethereal vibe. Think of reverb as the sonic equivalent of a haze machine—it blurs the edges of the vocals, making them feel otherworldly. Experiment with medium to large hall reverbs, but avoid overdoing it; aim for a wet/dry ratio of around 30-40% to keep the vocals intelligible while still achieving that floating effect. Pair this with occasional falsetto passages to elevate key moments, as heard in Andrew VanWyngarden’s delivery in "Time to Pretend." The falsetto should feel natural, not strained, serving as a contrast to the chest voice rather than a showcase of range.
A practical tip for achieving this style is to practice vocal exercises that emphasize breath control and softness. Try singing scales on a "hmm" or "ng" sound to engage the nasal cavity gently. For falsetto, focus on maintaining a connected tone rather than jumping abruptly into the higher register. Record yourself and listen back to ensure the nasality is subtle and the reverb blends seamlessly—think of it as seasoning, not the main dish.
Finally, consider the emotional intent behind this technique. MGMT’s vocals often convey a sense of detachment or wonder, as if the singer is observing the world from a distance. Channel this mindset while performing, letting the airy, reverbed vocals become a vehicle for that mood. By balancing technical precision with emotional nuance, you’ll not only sound like MGMT but also capture the spirit of their music.
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Rhythmic Grooves: Focus on laid-back, mid-tempo drum patterns with subtle syncopation and shuffling hi-hats
To capture the essence of MGMT's sound, start by anchoring your drum patterns in a mid-tempo range, typically between 90 and 110 BPM. This tempo sweet spot creates a laid-back vibe without sacrificing momentum. Think of it as the heartbeat of their music—steady, unhurried, and inviting. For example, tracks like "Electric Feel" and "Kids" thrive in this tempo zone, allowing the other elements to shimmer without rushing the groove.
Next, introduce subtle syncopation to add depth and intrigue. Syncopation doesn’t mean complexity; instead, it’s about placing accents in unexpected places to create a gentle push-pull effect. Try shifting the snare slightly off the backbeat or layering ghost notes on the kick drum. This technique keeps the rhythm engaging without overwhelming the listener. Imagine a drummer tapping their foot just a hair behind the beat—it’s that understated yet effective.
Shuffling hi-hats are the secret weapon in MGMT’s rhythmic arsenal. Instead of rigid eighth notes, aim for a looser, more organic feel by incorporating triplet-based patterns or slight velocity variations. Picture the hi-hats as a soft breeze rather than a metronome. Experiment with closing the hi-hats at irregular intervals to mimic the feel of a live drummer, adding warmth and humanity to the groove.
To tie it all together, balance these elements with restraint. MGMT’s drum patterns are never the star of the show—they’re the foundation that lets the synths, vocals, and melodies shine. Avoid overloading the mix with excessive fills or flashy techniques. Instead, focus on consistency and feel. A practical tip: record yourself playing the pattern and listen back to ensure it feels effortless, not forced.
Finally, study MGMT’s collaborations with producers like Dave Fridmann, who often emphasizes space and texture in the mix. Apply light reverb or compression to the drum kit to blend it seamlessly with the rest of the track. The goal is to create a groove that feels both familiar and otherworldly, much like MGMT’s signature sound. Master this laid-back, mid-tempo approach, and you’ll be one step closer to capturing their hypnotic rhythm.
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Melodic Songwriting: Craft catchy, repetitive melodies with unexpected chord progressions and surreal lyrical themes
Catchy melodies are the backbone of MGMT's sound, often built on simple, repetitive phrases that lodge themselves in your brain. Think of "Kids" — the ascending, four-note hook is childlike in its simplicity, yet irresistible. To emulate this, start by crafting a short, memorable melodic motif (3-5 notes) that can be easily hummed. Repeat this motif throughout the song, varying its rhythm, octave, or instrumentation to keep it fresh. For instance, layer a synth line with a guitar riff playing the same melody, or transpose it to a higher octave during the chorus. The key is to strike a balance between familiarity and novelty, ensuring the melody feels both comforting and intriguing.
While MGMT’s melodies are often straightforward, their chord progressions frequently take unexpected turns. In "Time to Pretend," the verse oscillates between major and minor chords, creating a sense of dreamy unease. To achieve this, experiment with modal interchange (borrowing chords from parallel modes) or introduce non-diatonic chords to disrupt predictability. For example, in a song in C major, try slipping in an F minor chord instead of the expected F major. Pair these surprising progressions with your repetitive melody to create a tension that feels both unsettling and captivating. Remember, the goal isn't to confuse the listener but to keep them engaged by subverting their expectations.
MGMT’s lyrical themes often veer into the surreal, blending mundane observations with psychedelic imagery. In "Electric Feel," they juxtapate a dance-floor banger with lyrics about alien love and cosmic energy. To write in this style, start with a concrete, relatable idea (e.g., falling in love) and twist it with abstract, dreamlike details. Use vivid, sensory language and avoid overly literal descriptions. For instance, instead of "I miss you," try "Your voice is a ghost in my headphones, rewinding the stars." Keep the phrasing rhythmic and tied to your melody, ensuring the lyrics enhance the song’s hypnotic quality rather than overshadowing it.
Combining these elements—repetitive melodies, unexpected chords, and surreal lyrics—requires careful balance. A practical approach is to outline your song structure first, mapping where each element will evolve. For example, introduce your melody in the verse, add a surprising chord in the pre-chorus, and layer surreal lyrics in the chorus. Use production techniques like reverb and delay to enhance the dreamy atmosphere, but avoid overloading the mix. Test your song on different instruments or in different keys to find the arrangement that best serves the melody and lyrics. The result should feel cohesive yet unpredictable, a hallmark of MGMT’s hypnotic, genre-bending style.
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Frequently asked questions
Focus on dreamy, psychedelic synth textures, layered harmonies, and a mix of vintage and modern production techniques. Incorporate elements like arpeggiated synths, reverb-heavy guitars, and melodic basslines.
Use synthesizers (like the Roland Juno or Korg MS-20), electric guitars with effects pedals (reverb, delay, and phaser), and drum machines or live drums with a lo-fi, organic feel. Software plugins for synths and effects can also work.
Vocals are crucial—aim for a relaxed, slightly nasal tone with layered harmonies. Focus on melodic phrasing, occasional falsetto, and a dreamy, detached delivery. Effects like reverb and chorus can enhance the MGMT vibe.
Experiment with heavy reverb, delay, and panning for a spacious mix. Use compression sparingly to maintain dynamic range, and layer synths and guitars for richness. Don’t over-polish—retain a slightly lo-fi, organic feel.
