Influence of Technology Research Task
The Internet is a band from Los Angeles, consisting of five people. There's Syd, the vocalist; Matt Martians, the keyboardist; Patrick Paige II, the bassist; Christopher Smith, the drummer; and Steve Lacy, the guitarist. Their music is a mixture of multiple genres, including R&B, jazz, funk, and hip hop. Today, they have made four albums, including Hive Mind and Feel Good.
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The Internet was made in 2011, as a side project by members of Odd Future, Syd and Matt. Odd Future was an American hip hop collective formed by Tyler, the Creator. Over time, The Internet gained a following and a fanbase, eventually outliving Odd Future, which disbanded in 2016 after 9 years.
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The Internet uses a distinctive blend of acoustic and electric instruments, along with unique production techniques to combine these. Some interesting uses of technology often found in their music include sampling, looping, vocal layering, vocal effects, electronic drum kits, other electric instruments, and synths.
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The example I have provided is Girl by The Internet and KAYTRANADA.
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Within the first 23 seconds, we are already presented with multiple interesting uses of technology. An electric guitar sample is heard, modulating in dynamics and looping throughout the majority of the song.
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In the intro, an electric drum kit is also present. The addition of these clean kick and snare sounds contrast beautifully with the lo-fi guitar sample, combining to create a very interesting and engaging song.
Throughout the song, we hear some great examples of vocal layering, both in the lead (one octave apart) and in the accompaniment. The vocal layering in the accompaniment adds the unique texture of the voice, one that is special because it can never quite be simulated or replicated.
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Additionally, a retro bass synth reminiscent of the 80s is present. It plays in a syncopated rhythm, giving the song some bounced body and blending nicely with other rhythms present.
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A soft pad synth is also heard during the majority of the song. In verses, it has a low cut filter on it, so only the lower frequencies are heard, almost as if you're listening from underwater. However, this filter is removed during the chorus, revealing the high frequencies. Pad synths are often used to bind all parts together and create unity, as if they fill in any spaces in the background.