Riff Diary #2: Zaniness – A Breakdown Your Seven String Wouldn’t Forgive

From Riff to Chaos

It all started with a single riff. I was really inspired by Invent Animate and their "all over the place" style – riffs that surprise you every second. I instantly knew I wanted to build something that wasn’t afraid to go full-on chaotic.

The most fun part was the breakdown. I wanted it to sound as insane as possible – but still have a groove. I used a pitch shift plugin to drop some parts an octave lower and automated it in my DAW for max impact on the low, double-dropped notes. Add to that a wah pedal, so I could mess around even more with another pitch shift from Archetype Gojira X. It was pure fun.

More Than Just Guitar

With "Zaniness", I found myself switching perspectives more than usual – sometimes focusing on the guitar composition, and at other times on the orchestral layers. That constant change in point of view? I love it.

I was also reminded how crucial realistic programming is – especially for drums and orchestration. The more it sounds like real musicians playing, the more immersive it gets. You don’t need a full band or fancy studio – just give it some care and attention.

Don’t Take Yourself So Seriously

"Zaniness" has energy, drive, and suddenly throws you into complete confusion. And that’s exactly the feeling I wanted to capture. Not everything has to make sense. Sometimes, it just needs balls – and fun.

That’s something I’m trying to stick to when writing these days: don’t take myself so seriously. Learn to laugh at both yourself and your music. Once you let go a bit, the best stuff tends to come out. Especially if you write often.

A Message to Young Creators

If you’re just getting started with music, or even just thinking about recording something – just do it. You don’t need pro gear, a fancy studio, or ten years of experience. I record everything at home – guitar, audio interface, Cubase, and let’s go.

And most importantly: don’t be afraid to get weird. Don’t chase the "right" style. Write a riff that makes you laugh. Record a breakdown that sounds like a nuclear meltdown. Modulate out of nowhere. Throw in weird effects. Whatever – as long as it serves the track.

Laugh while you’re doing it. And then release it (if you want to).

You can listen to "Zaniness" on all major streaming platforms. And if you want a behind-the-scenes look at how these tracks come together, check out the series on YouTube – I drop a new video every 2 weeks, sharing the full process, honestly and unfiltered, mistakes and joy included.

Can’t wait to see what you create.