How to Give Lofi Tracks a Summer Vibe

Lofi music has a characteristic warm and calm sound, perfect for relaxation and concentration. But what if you want to add more of a summer feel to your tracks? We've prepared a few tips to help you create a great summer atmosphere in your upcoming lofi composition.

Nature Sounds

• Water Sounds: Use sounds of waves splashing or a babbling brook. This will help create the atmosphere of a beach or river. You can find high-quality sound effects on platforms like Freesound or Splice.
  
  

• Birdsong: Add recordings of birds singing, which are associated with early summer mornings in nature. These sounds can be found on Soundsnap or BBC Sound Effects.

Example: In the track by Momentology - “Corner Garden” bird singing recordings are used, perfectly complementing the track and creating an unparalleled summer evening atmosphere.

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Use of Acoustic Instruments

Add acoustic guitar or ukulele parts, which pair well with a warm and relaxed summer mood. Use open chords and light, melodic riffs. For recording acoustic instruments, you can use VST plugins such as Ample Guitar or Spitfire Audio LABS.

Example: The composition “Sunset Lover” by Petit Biscuit, where acoustic instruments are used to create warmth and lightness. Although the track is not in the lo-fi style, it can still serve as inspiration.

Tempo and Rhythm

• Increasing the Tempo: Raise the tempo to 80-100 BPM to make the track a bit livelier, while still keeping it relaxed. You can adjust the tempo in almost any sequencer you work with.
  
  

• Light Rhythms: Use light and danceable rhythms that evoke summer parties or dances under the open sky. Plugins like EZdrummer or Superior Drummer can help create the desired rhythm.
  
  

Example: The percussion in the track “Feels Like Summer” by Childish Gambino, where a light and lively rhythm is used. A similar sound would fit well into your future lofi track.

Vinyl Crackle and Effects

• Vinyl Crackle: Use vinyl crackle or other similar effects to add a retro atmosphere. This can create the feeling of listening to old summer recordings. You can use plugins like iZotope Vinyl or RC-20 Retro Color.
  
  

• Reverb and Delay: Apply reverb and delay to create a spatial effect. This can mimic the sound of music playing outdoors. Plugins like Valhalla VintageVerb or EchoBoy can be very useful.
  
  

Example: Check out “kinda nice” by Earium, where you can hear vinyl crackle, characteristic of vinyl records.

Conclusion

Adding a summer vibe to lofi compositions is a great way to create tracks that are perfect for the warmer months of the year. Experiment with different elements to find your unique sound that reflects your summer memories and moods. Have a great day!