For hip hop my favorite is
Beyonce - yonce
Dr Dre - still Dre
50 cent - candy shop
Fat Joe - lean back

 

Did someone know if there is a difference when using analyzer tools to view commercial mp3 reference songs that I download from a online free converter who convert spotify & YT links

or

Is it better to buy some .wav RIP of the songs? Where?

Is there a way to get the project wave file as it is out of the mastering stage and before rendering to platforms conversion staging?

Thx
*$*

 

Just search for FLAC audio files. Much better than streaming quality.

 

On lucida.to.

 

it's not a good idea as the rip from a vinyl (even well ripped) is quiet far from the original master honnestly.

 

This is an incredible resource for mixing! Having a solid list of reference tracks is a game-changer. I’ve been organizing my own session notes and frequency checklists on https://wordpad-online.com/word to keep my workflow consistent. Thanks!

 

Hi all,
"Nubie" to the forum here, and this is the first thread I've read - a really great thread and definitely of interest to me at the moment.
Is anybody else into alt/goth/industrial kinda stuff?
Would love to hear your suggestions for excellent reference tracks in that area.
FWIW here's my starting Top-10:

1. Gary Numan – Metal
   A masterclass in vocal authority and restraint, dry, centred vocals dominating a minimal but powerful electronic arrangement.
2. The Sisters of Mercy – This Corrosion
   Excellent long-form structure, layered without clutter, showing how repetition and scale can remain controlled and hypnotic.
3. Nine Inch Nails – Ruiner
   Surgical dynamics and automation, demonstrating how industrial textures can breathe while maintaining tension and clarity.
4. Marilyn Manson – The Reflecting God
   Controlled aggression with strong vocal character, proving heaviness comes from intent and spacing rather than constant density.
5. Depeche Mode – Stripped
   A benchmark for dark electronic balance, huge low end, disciplined percussion, and emotional weight without overcrowding the mix.
6. The Human League – The Things That Dreams Are Made Of
   Immaculate early synth production, showing excellent stereo placement, frequency discipline, and groove through simplicity.
7. Alien Sex Fiend – Dead and Buried
   Punk and electronics blended with purpose, a great example of controlled chaos and character-led production choices.
8. David Bowie – Sound and Vision
   Exceptional use of space and subtraction, demonstrating confidence in arrangement and mood-driven structure.
9. Bauhaus – Dark Entries
   Minimalist menace, bass-led energy, and proof that atmosphere often comes from what is deliberately left out.
10. The Cure – Plainsong
    A benchmark for atmosphere and scale, showing how texture, space, and gradual movement can create emotional weight without density.

 

Hello @JoshW, welcome and thank you for your selection and explanations.

Here are 4 bands from the gothic and independent scene!

Girls Under Glass - Exitus 1986 - 1995

Sisters of Mercy - Floodland (Expanded & Remastered)

Diary of Dreams - Amok

LOVE LIKE BLOOD - Within The Realm Of A Dying Sun

 

Last edited: Jan 19, 2026