Engineering composers have plenty of choice when it comes to drums that arrive as the kind of drum kit known by most. But what if the production needs the symphonic touch? Here we crank up the drama to take a look at UJAM’s Symphonic Elements DRUMS…

As Heard On TV

Anyone watching TV might have noticed a not-too-subtle shift in the style of music heard over the last 15 years or so. Whether in the background, as a main theme, or incidentally for television and game, music that used to rely on smaller arrangements reigned supreme.

Usually comprising machine drums with maybe real keys, guitar and bass, micro productions for the small screen might have seen guest instruments such as a virtual horn or string parts every now and then. In parallel, film productions in need of the symphonic treatment needed deep pockets to buy-in the orchestral experience. Beginning in the 2000’s, the place of virtual symphonies was fairy and squarely for the composer’s and conductor’s ears only, before filling a big room with 60 or more classically-trained musicians.

Using UJAM Symphonic Elements DRUMS

In the present, powerful, convincing symphonia can be heard in a wider range of productions. Although the biggest recordings still demand the real thing, medium scale TV productions and indy films can benefit from affordable virtual orchestral arrangements that used to be the preserve of small ‘band’ arrangements from the lone instrumentalist with their drum machine.

In the video, we use Symphonic Elements DRUMS to inject some Zimmer-esque pulsating drama into a cinematic mix. By simply holding down keys on a controller to trigger the most involving phrase, we then introduce its Finisher and Crossfader into proceedings to add rhythmic variation and tension. Ably assisted by Symphonic Elements BRAAASS and STRIIIINGS, our composition quickly takes shape for some widescreen sounds that are achievable in any DAW.

UJAM Symphonic Elements line brings symphonic string, brass, and drum sounds to small productions for writers and composers who don’t necessarily have the budget or the musical training to wrangle an orchestra together. Symphonic Elements DRUMS does what it says on the tin with an inventory of classical drums, cymbals and percussion on tap with the added spice of lesser-heard east Asian sounds. These all can be played using UJAM’s compliment of phrases and hits that can be played by anyone with an idea.

UJAM Symphonic Elements DRUMS Features:

• “World-class” drum samples and sequences recorded at Hans Zimmer’s Remote Control Studios, produced by Boris Salchow.

• 53 playing styles, 300 sound designer presets.

• Total of 1219 phrases.

• Each Style comes with 5 one-shot Hits and Metals.

• Finisher FX one-knob sound design.

• Crossfade performance control between two independent low and high sections.