How to Produce Like Ben Böhmer in Ableton Live

In Episode 016 of Producer Notes with Francois PML, we dive into the world of Ben Böhmer, exploring his unique approach to music production. This episode focuses on how to create a sound similar to Böhmer’s melodic house style, particularly his remix of Monolink’s “Father Ocean.” Join us as we analyze the key elements that define this genre, which sits at the intersection of Deep House, Progressive House, and Melodic House.

Key Lessons from the Episode

Here are the main elements that characterize Ben Böhmer’s sound:

• Main Elements of This Sound:
• Warm, round kicks that provide a solid foundation.
• Low toms that add depth and rhythm.
• Sustained pitched Moog bass that glides in leads and arpeggios, adding emotional depth.
• “Horn-style” pads that create a rich atmosphere.
• Fast mono plucks that add a bright texture.
• Long, dreamy, pitched glide lead synths, often using Serum or Diva.
• Chords typically consist of two to three tracks for more harmonic freedom.
• Main arpeggio for melody, with organic feels achieved through velocity variations.
• Short vocal shots that add interest and texture.
• Drums with an organic, natural feel, including shakers and hats.
• Rides and organic white noise for additional texture.
• Snappy claps or layered claps with reverb tails, especially in live sets.
• FX elements that are groovy, zappy, and glitchy for added character.
• For ear candy, resampling your own projects can create unique sounds.

Referenced in This Video

Check out the following resources mentioned in the episode:

? Ableton Project File from this video (Part of Ben Böhmer Pack)
? Full Melodic House Bundle (including Ben Böhmer Packs)
? Ben Böhmer Masterclass
? Everything Bundle
?️ Serum Presets “Feelings” – including main sounds from Father Ocean remake

How to Learn to Produce a Sound Similar to Ben Böhmer

If you’re eager to learn how to produce music like Ben Böhmer using Ableton Live and Serum, here are some key areas to focus on:

1. Master Ableton’s Session View

Ben Böhmer heavily utilizes the Session View for live performances and idea generation. Familiarize yourself with setting up clips and scenes, and learn to use MIDI controllers like the Xone K2 for live manipulation. This feature allows for a fluid workflow, enabling you to experiment with different arrangements and sounds in real-time, which is crucial for developing your unique style.

2. Sound Design in Serum (or Diva)

Practice creating Ben Böhmer’s signature sounds in Serum. Focus on warm basses, lush pads, bright plucks, and swells. Use sawtooth and sine waves, along with subtle modulation and filters, to achieve his melodic deep house sound. Understanding the intricacies of sound design will empower you to craft your own unique sonic palette, essential for standing out in the crowded electronic music landscape.

3. Drum Programming

Create organic, human-feeling rhythms by using loops and layered samples. Pay attention to shaker loops, ride loops, and layered claps with reverb for a fuller sound. The goal is to create a groove that feels alive and dynamic, which is a hallmark of Böhmer’s productions. Experimenting with different drum patterns and layering techniques can lead to innovative rhythmic ideas.

4. Chord Progressions and Melodies

Study Ben Böhmer’s harmonic choices and practice creating emotional, melodic progressions that resonate with listeners. His ability to evoke emotion through melody is a key aspect of his music. Try to incorporate unexpected chord changes and melodic variations to keep your compositions engaging.

5. Effects Processing

Experiment with reverb, delay, and saturation to add depth and warmth to your tracks. These effects can significantly enhance the overall sound. Understanding how to effectively use effects processing can transform a basic track into a polished production, making it more appealing to listeners.

6. Arrangement Techniques

Learn how to build tension and release in your tracks. Focus on gradual builds and subtle variations to keep your listeners engaged. The arrangement is where you can tell a story through your music, guiding the listener through peaks and valleys that create an emotional journey.

7. Study Ben Böhmer’s Project Files

If possible, analyze his Ableton projects to understand his workflow and production techniques. This can provide invaluable insights into his creative process. Ableton Project Files in his style are part of the Ben Böhmer Pack By dissecting his projects, you can learn how he structures his tracks, layers sounds, and implements effects, which can greatly enhance your own production skills.

8. Practice Live Performance

Set up your Ableton Live session for smooth transitions and live manipulation of elements. This will help you develop your performance skills and enhance your overall production. Live performance is not just about playing your tracks; it’s about engaging with your audience and creating a memorable experience.

To accelerate your learning, consider investing in Ben Böhmer’s Masterclass or sound packs that provide in-depth insights into his production methods and sound design techniques. These resources can serve as a valuable supplement to your learning, offering practical examples and inspiration.

Enjoy your production journey! Embrace the process of experimentation and creativity, and remember that every producer has their unique voice. By studying artists like Ben Böhmer, you can refine your skills and develop your own distinctive sound in the world of electronic music.