Life on Mars is a fairly recent addition to the Krannaken repertoire. It was my own work (David Verney). In this post, I am going to break it down and tell you all about it, why you should listen to it, how I made it and what my influences were in making this track.
I wouldn’t say this was my best work by any stretch of the imagination. However, it is an example of what I am capable of. Influences were largely from Jean-Michel Jarre, but there is a darker bassline with terrific drum patterns.
Themes of Life on Mars
Everhald has been working on an outer space theme throughout much of his recent work. However, this is my own inspiration. Everhald is a very inspirational musician.
Keeping the Instrumental Aspect Going
Life on Mars portrays that instrumental feel that is apparent throughout out work. We just prefer writing lyricless music. It is easier to make without having to think up lots of intricate words to go with it. However, that’s not the only reason we stick to instrumental music. To me, instrumental music is better because it doesn’t distract the listener from anything else they may be doing while listening to it.
Another reason for instrumental music, is because I find the abstract quality appealing. The only thing that puts any kind of story to the Life on Mars track is the title – but then it sounds more science-based with it’s other-worldly feel.
Drum Patterns
There are multiple drum patterns going on at the same time during this track. You may think this would make it more of a noise than a drum masterpiece. However, the drums make it as easy to enjoy as it can. Just as in all of my work, you can hear moments where drum patterns differ. There is always a drop that is roughly 50% of the way through. This is typical of all music in this genre.
Effects
The effects were very much inspired by Jean-Michel Jarre. Perhaps you can hear that JMJ sound. I think as a musician, he has to be about my biggest inspiration. I remember when I was a boy, I would listen to Jean’s music all the time. I used to guess where a tune was going to go next and most of the time I was correct. Do you think Jean’s music is predictible? I don’t know, but he’s an incredible musician whether you can predict where his music is going next or not.
Get a Free Download Copy of Life on Mars
You can download a free WAV copy of Life on Mars here. Happy listening!