Post Malone, the American rapper, singer, and songwriter, has captivated audiences worldwide with his unique musical style. One notable element of his sound is the intentional use of audio effects, such as the flanger, on his voice. The flanger effect adds a distinctive swirling, swooshing sound to his vocals, creating a distinct sonic texture. In this article, we will explore the use of the flanger effect on Post Malone’s voice, discussing its purpose, impact, and contribution to his artistic expression.
The Flanger Effect
Before diving into the specifics, it is essential to grasp the concept of flanging. Flanging is an audio effect created by mixing two identical signals together, with one signal slightly delayed and modulated in phase. The resulting sound exhibits a sweeping, comb-like effect characterized by peaks and notches in the frequency spectrum. Flanging has been used in various musical genres for decades, adding depth, movement, and a psychedelic quality to the audio.
Post Malone’s Unique Sound
Post Malone has gained recognition for his distinctive vocal style, blending elements of hip-hop, pop, and rock. The use of the flanger effect contributes to this unique sound. By applying this, Post Malone achieves a dreamy, otherworldly quality to his vocals, enhancing the emotional impact of his lyrics and melodies. The flanger adds a sense of ethereal ambiance and depth, making his voice stand out in the mix and creating an immersive sonic experience for listeners.
This effect is very prominent in the song below.
Artistic Expression and Emotional Impact
Post Malone’s decision to incorporate the effect into his vocal production is an artistic choice that serves to enhance the emotional impact of his music. The swirling, atmospheric quality of the flanger adds a layer of vulnerability, melancholy, or intensity to his voice, depending on the context of the song. It creates a sonic atmosphere that complements the themes and mood of his lyrics, allowing listeners to connect with the raw emotions conveyed in his music.
Influences and Genre Blurring
This technique also reflects his willingness to experiment with different genres and push musical boundaries. He draws inspiration from diverse musical influences, ranging from hip-hop and rock to pop and R&B. The flanger effect, often associated with psychedelic rock and experimental music, allows him to blur genre lines, infusing his music with a touch of unpredictability and eclecticism. It becomes a sonic signature that sets him apart from other artists and contributes to the evolution of his sound.
Production Techniques and Collaborations
Important to note is that the technique is not solely a result of his artistic vision but also a collaborative effort with his producers and sound engineers. The production team plays a vital role in shaping the sonic landscape of his music, experimenting with different effects and techniques to achieve the desired aesthetic. The flanger effect on his vocals is often applied subtly, ensuring it enhances the overall mix without overpowering other elements. Except in his hit song ‘Circles’, where the effect becomes too distracting once you hear it. In the recent song ‘Mourning’ it is used way more subtle, which is an improvement and makes the mix sound more mature. Through close collaboration, Post Malone and his team strike a balance that allows the flanger to become an integral part of his sonic identity.
Conclusion
Post Malone’s use of the flanger effect adds a distinct and captivating element to his music. The swirling, ethereal quality of the flanger enhances the emotional impact of his lyrics, contributing to his unique sound and artistic expression. By embracing the flanger effect, Post Malone blurs genre boundaries and creates a sonic atmosphere that captivates listeners. It is a testament to his willingness to explore new sonic territories and collaborate with his production team to craft a sound that is uniquely his own.
Listen to the song below and try to hear the flanger effect. But beware, because once you hear it, you can never not hear it anymore.
