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When it comes to pushing the boundaries of musical structure and complexity, few bands stand out like Meshuggah. Renowned for their innovative use of rhythm, texture, and beyond, Meshuggah has carved out a unique space in the world of progressive metal. This article explores how their intricate techniques can inspire and enhance a Eurorack modular setup, allowing synthesists to delve into the realm of complex rhythms, powerful low frequencies, and evolving motifs.
Deep Low Tones
Meshuggah frequently employs powerful low tunings, resulting in a sound that is both rich and impactful. This approach can be mirrored in a Eurorack setup by focusing on subharmonic content. For example, using a two-oscillator setup, one can achieve deep, resonant bass frequencies by pitching an oscillator down to around 30 Hz, similar to Meshuggah's typical low tuning, while having the other oscillator frequency around 60 Hz. This can also be achieved by using a single oscillator like the NANO Modules ONA which is capable of outputting two sub-octave frequencies that can be mixed with the original signal using a module like the Intellijel Mixup.
Furthermore, frequency dividers like the Doepfer A-163 can also generate sub-octave signals, creating a thick, layered sound reminiscent of Meshuggah’s powerful riffs. Another trick is the use of a clock divider such as the 4MS Quad Clock Distributor. Sending an oscillator signal to the clock input and dividing that frequency will output a sub-octave signal of the source signal. In that fashion, one can create 4 distinct sub-octave signals from a single source and mix them together.
Another method to create a deep low sound is to stack several sawtooth or square waveforms from three oscillators tuned at different low octaves to achieve a dense, full-bodied tone.
FM synthesis also offers a powerful way to shape tones, particularly when utilizing sync features and linear frequency modulation. The following patch note guides you through setting up a robust 3-oscillator configuration with the Bocuma SUM0 as the key module.
Rhythmic Complexity
One of Meshuggah's hallmarks is their use of polymeters, where different instruments play in different time signatures but align periodically. For instance, a 4/4 drum pattern might interact with a 23/16 guitar riff, creating a dense, interlocking rhythm. In a Eurorack system, this can be partially replicated by implementing clock dividers that create various subdivisions of a master clock. Devices like the Arturia Beatstep Pro enable the creation of multiple sequences with varying speeds and lengths, making it easier to integrate this technique into your setup. Sequential switches like the Doepfer A-151 Quad Sequential Switch can dynamically change rhythm patterns when fed different sequences. This is particularly effective when combined with those sequencers capable of handling odd time signatures like the Intellijel Steppy, producing the intricate, interwoven beats that define Meshuggah’s music.
Editor's note: A reader provided feedback, noting their surprise that I didn't incorporate the idea of using multiple sequences with different time signatures to create polyrhythmic accents for example. I actually covered this idea in the first patch note I ever created. You can use this principle to alter different parameters in your system.
Forced Realignment
Meshuggah's music employs forced realignment, featuring abrupt cuts and changes in rhythmic patterns, resulting in intricate syncopation and irregular rhythms. This stands in contrast to polyrhythm, where multiple independent rhythmic patterns coexist simultaneously without interruption. For instance, a 4/4 drum pattern might realign with a 7/4 guitar riff every 40 beats. In Eurorack terms, achieving this involves using a sequencer to reset all other sequences at specific intervals with a single gate, ensuring they realign synchronously.
Adding probability to the sequencer responsible for forced realignment introduces surprises while sacrificing the redundancy essential in such setups. For those aiming for more chaos, this approach works well. However, to maintain a sense of repetition akin to Meshuggah's structured chaos style, protecting a simple 4/4 pattern ensures it resets simultaneously, providing a steady rhythmic foundation for the audience to follow amidst irregular rhythms. Using an even time signature for the resetting gate signal is therefore essential.
Iso-Rhythms
Iso-rhythm is a musical technique from the medieval period that involves repeating a rhythmic pattern (talea) alongside a repeating melodic pattern (colour). Taleae are typically applied to one or more melodic patterns of pitches or colours, which may be of the same or a different length from the talea. This creates a complex interplay where rhythmic and melodic elements align and realign, adding layers of structure and variation to compositions.
Iso-rhythm here focuses on layered repetitions and subtle variations to achieve sustained rhythmic and melodic complexity throughout their music. To explain further, part of the song "Sum" by Meshuggah is thoroughly dissected in this video.
Delayed Start Points
Meshuggah often employs delayed start points, beginning riffs or rhythms at unconventional positions within a measure. This technique creates syncopation and off-beat accents, lending a distinct rhythmic feel by initiating a pattern slightly after the main beat. In a Eurorack system, manipulating sequence start points can be achieved using modules like the Doepfer A-155 Analog/Trigger Sequencer, which features a dedicated start button and a CV input that can automate this technique seamlessly. Another method to achieve this effect is to utilize a module like the Doepfer A-162 Dual Trigger Delay, which can delay the start of one sequence after another sequence has already begun. Another great module to apply this technique is the 4MS QCD Expander. The crucial step is to ensure that the delayed trigger activates precisely on the clock signal.
Cycling Through Motifs
Meshuggah often utilizes the technique of cycling through various motifs or riffs, enhancing the progression and diversity within their compositions. In a "Meshuggah in Eurorack" setup, this method can be achieved by manually morphing between sequences using tools such as joysticks like the Tesseract Modular Stonk Joystick Controller + Audio Processor or mixers such as the AtoVproject MMx2 Matrixable Mixer, allowing for seamless transitions between musical ideas. Sequential switch modules further automate the cycling process, enabling the creation of dynamic musical structures that embody Meshuggah's progressive and evolving style.
Meshuggah in Eurorack in Sum
Meshuggah's pioneering approach to rhythm, texture, and sonic innovation has set a benchmark in progressive metal. By exploring their intricate techniques through Eurorack modular synthesis, musicians can expand their creative horizons into realms of complex polyrhythms, deep subharmonic frequencies, and dynamic motif cycling. Whether replicating their delayed start points, exploring forced realignment, or experimenting with iso-rhythms, the modular approach offers a versatile canvas for crafting music that echoes Meshuggah's distinctive style while pushing the boundaries of musical complexity.
If you want to hear and see all of this in action, watch this great video.