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Great Quote by Curt Smith

“Mad World's distinctive percussion intro was played on a Roland CR-78 drum machine. We first recorded it at twice the speed, but it sounded great slowed down.” quote by Curt Smith
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“Mad World's distinctive percussion intro was played on a Roland CR-78 drum machine. We first recorded it at twice the speed, but it sounded great slowed down.”

Curt Smith

About This Quote

Source Interview: The Making of 'Mad World', Tears for Fears, 1982

The drum intro was recorded fast then slowed, creating a distinctive sound texture.

In simple terms: Fast recording then slowed creates unique texture.

Key Takeaway

Use speed changes for creative effects.

Themes

music production creativity technology

Mood

innovative experimental

Type

technical creative

When to use this quote

  • recording a song
  • producing a soundtrack
  • experimenting with drum machines

Key Concepts

audio engineering tempo manipulation

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does altering speed affect listener perception?
  • What other instruments benefit from this technique?
A Different Perspective

Requires precise timing and equipment; not all sounds benefit from speed changes.

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