Drum Libraries and Best Sounds for Metal: Mateusz Krauze's Guide to Modern Production
In the world of modern metal production, Mateusz Krauze stands out as a passionate guitarist and producer. With over a decade of experience, Mateusz specializes in crafting melodic metalcore tracks powered by the best drum sounds for metal and expertly curated drum libraries. His unique approach blends emotion, precision, and cutting-edge tools, making his productions a benchmark in the genre.
We are proud to welcome Mateusz Krauze as our newest Hertz Drums artist. His creativity and dedication to his craft are truly inspiring. Mateusz has achieved his success through relentless hard work, and his music reflects his passion for innovation in metal production.
This exclusive interview dives into the secrets of his production process, offering insights into the tools and techniques that make his music stand out. Thank you, Mateusz, for sharing your journey and expertise with us!
What genres of music did you grow up listening to, and which ones do you create now? Any favorite songs or bands?
I grew up mostly on hard rock and heavy metal bands like GnR, Scorpions, Metallica and other classics. Now, I create modern metalcore/melodic instrumental music, but I’m always open for different genres. Currently, my favorite bands are Trivium, Intervals, In Flames, Wage War and Andy James.
How long does it usually take you to compose a song, and how long do you spend on mixing it?
It’s very difficult question. Composing a song can be incredibly challenging, usually it takes from 2 days to even 2 weeks.
Speaking of mixing, it really depends on how many tracks I have and how complex my song is. I think 1/2 days is my average time for one song.
What instruments do you play? What strings or tunings do you use?
I mostly play guitar, tuned to drop-A on a 7-string, but I also compose on piano. These tunings complement the powerful drum libraries for metal I use in my tracks.
What audio interface do you work with?
I use the M-AUDIO Air 192-14 interface, which ensures high-quality audio capture, perfect for pairing with the best drum sounds for metal.
Pic. 1 – Mateusz Kreuze – artist Hertz Drums
What are the 1-3 plugins you cannot live without? Why do you value them?
Hertz Drums 2, Neural DSP Plini and Ozone 11. With Plini plugin you can achieve every sound from crystal clean to super high-gain stuff. Ozone 11 is very versatile plugin, from mixing to mastering, but I avoid using AI mastering assistant for metal genres.
Do you have any favorite impulse response (IR) profiles? What do you use for your guitar or drum sounds?
I have my own IR’s that I can’t live without. Some of them are available for purchase on my website here. Hertz Instruments has also some cool impulses that I use for my productions as well, same with Bogren Digital. For drums, Hertz Drums Bundles stands out among the best drum sounds for metal.
What DAW do you prefer for your music production?
I tend to use Ableton, but now I work in Reaper – a DAW that offers flexibility, especially when layering drum libraries for metal.
Pic.2 – Hertz Drums 2 ,Fame & Fury expansion witch Neural DSP.
What inspires you in your music production process?
Many things, mostly my emotions. I always want to express my emotions in music. Sometimes I get inspiration from other songs and artists. There are also many AI tools, which can give you some ideas for melodies for example and cutting-edge tools like the best drum libraries for metal.
Can you walk us through your composition process? Do you start with melodies or rhythms?
My composition process is not always the same. For most of the time, I start with simple melodies and rhythmic riffs. Then I program drums layering them with drum sounds from libraries like Hertz Drums Bundle and fill my composition with elements like synths/orchestral instruments.
What tools do you use for mastering?
My main tool is Ozone 11 as I mentioned earlier, I use it for compression, stereo imaging, saturation and of course EQ. My last plugin in the chain is always Flatline 2, but if you don’t know how to use it, you can destroy your mastering very easily.
Pic.3 – Mateusz Krauze Neural DSP set-up.
Any tips for other music producers who are just starting out?
Never give up! It’s not only for producers but for everyone. I had some really tough times in my life and music has always been in my heart. Probably it saved my life.
So, for everyone who wants to make music, use it as a tool for expressing what you really feel, not for the money. If you’re stuck, take a break and return later. You should make music for yourself, not someone else. Explore tools like Hertz Drums Bundle, which deliver the best drum sounds for metal, and always produce music from the heart.
Do you use MIDI grooves from Hertz Drums in your production? If so, which ones do you find most useful?
Yes, especially for drum fills. Hertz Drums offers versatile MIDI grooves, ideal for metal production.
What do you appreciate most about Hertz Drums: the sound of the samples, the functionality, MIDI grooves, choice of 3 microphones, or the extensive articulations?
Everything! Hertz Drums provides unmatched articulation and is among the best drum sounds for metal.
Is there a specific snare or kick drum sound you prefer to use in your music?
I prefer meaty, full-sounding kicks and snares with long sustain, both achievable with Hertz Drums Bundle.
Pic.4 – Mastering chain: Ozone 11, Flatline 2
Closing Thoughts: The Art of Modern Metal Production with Mateusz Krauze
Mateusz Krauze exemplifies the perfect blend of talent, determination, and innovation in modern metal production. His use of Hertz Drums and expertly selected drum libraries for metal highlights his dedication to achieving the best drum sounds for metal in his work.
We deeply value Mateusz’s contributions to the metal community and are excited to have him as part of the Hertz Instruments family. His journey is a testament to what can be achieved through passion and hard work.
To explore more of Mateusz’s music and stay updated on his projects, check out his profiles:
Thank you again, Mateusz, for sharing your inspiring story and production secrets with us. We look forward to hearing more of your incredible work!
Sławek Wiesławski