Lazy Kenneth: An Automatic Sidechain for Your 4/4 Groove
In the world of electronic music, especially in genres with a clear 4/4 rhythm – such as techno, house, trance, minimal, or tribal – the interaction between the kick drum and the bassline is critically important. Often, these two elements conflict in the low frequencies, creating a “muddy” sound that robs the track of punch and space.
The Problem of a “Muddy” Mix and Sidechaining
The classic solution is sidechain compression: reducing the volume of one signal (bass) when another signal (kick) sounds. This creates dynamic “space,” allowing the kick to cut through the mix while maintaining the bass’s energy. Properly configured sidechaining gives the track a characteristic “breathing” and groove.
However, setting up sidechaining can be complex for beginners or those who want a quick result. It requires an understanding of routing and selecting compression parameters, takes time, and demands experience.
Lazy Kenneth from Noisebud: A Quick Solution for 4/4
This is where Lazy Kenneth from Noisebud comes in. This VST plugin is specifically designed to solve the described problem in 4/4 music. Its function is to automatically control the volume of the bass every time the kick sounds, mimicking the sidechain effect, but without complex settings.
The author, Johannes from Noisebud, created Lazy Kenneth, facing low-frequency problems in the mixes of clients on PCs who were creating 4/4 music. He decided to create the simplest possible tool.
How Does Lazy Kenneth Work?
The usage is extremely simple:
- Install the plugin on the track with the bassline.
- Make sure the kick drum is playing in a 4/4 rhythm.
- Lazy Kenneth will automatically “listen” to the rhythm and mute the bass in sync with the kick drum hits.
You don’t need to configure sends or compression parameters. The plugin does everything itself, giving your track a clear low end and a signature sidechain “pumping” effect.
Who is This Plugin For?
Lazy Kenneth is perfect for:
- Producers who create music in genres like techno, house, trance, minimal, tribal, and other 4/4 styles.
- Beginners who haven’t yet mastered sidechaining.
- Experienced users for a quick result.
- Windows PC owners (available in VST format).
Creative Possibilities
Although its main purpose is to work with bass and kick, it can be used creatively. Place the plugin on other instrumental or vocal tracks (except the kick) to get a “pumping” effect. This will add energy and dynamics to the mix elements.
Conclusion
Lazy Kenneth from Noisebud is a simple but effective tool for any 4/4 electronic music producer on Windows. It automates the sidechain between the bass and kick, solving low-frequency problems and adding groove to tracks. Forget about complex settings – with Lazy Kenneth, you’ll get a professional result quickly. If you are looking for an easy way to improve the low end of your 4/4 tracks, Lazy Kenneth is worth a try.
