One topic that interests me is how the frequency balance of mixes over time have drastically changed. Of course, this is dependant on genre and is not applicable to all music, however there is a noticeable trend of mixes being less mid heavy and much brighter over time.
One reason for this could be the switch from analogue gear to digital gear as DAW’s have become the most common method to mix music. This effects the frequency balance because tape will generally carve out some high end information, as well as many of the most used analogue processors and pre-amps doing the same. When recorded DI and mixed digitally, this kind of effect does not take place, meaning the sound will naturally be brighter.
Another reason for this could be related to the previously discussed ‘Loudness Wars’. Part of competition in making mixes sound louder involves the perceived energy of the song which the low and high end information has a big effect on. Often times, boosting or adding high end information through saturation is referred to as adding ‘excitement’ as a result of this. I believe this has played a part in the mids becoming less dominant in modern music.
I also do not believe that there is anything wrong with this change, though I think it is interesting to note as someone who’s own work tends to put a lot of focus on the low mids and bass as to my ear it creates a more natural and smooth sound often times. I also believe that the brighter mixes usually work better for types of music I don’t make as much, which plays a role in this also.
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