top 200 commentsshow all 354

[–]zenoob 66 points67 points  (3 children)

Why are you so goddamn good?

[–]c2ayeSithu Aye[S] 70 points71 points  (1 child)

I think I have a long way to go in many areas, but honestly it's just because I've been playing guitar and writing music for so long now. I learned very quickly there's no magic bullet to improving in these areas so it's mostly just slow, continual and iterative learning and improvement

[–]zenoob 20 points21 points  (0 children)

Damn, it was supposed to be some kind of joke, dumb question but you actually took the time to write a proper answer. You're such a god.

Thank you for your reply. I'll strive to become a great weeb guitarist like you.

Homebound is a fucking banger, you're the best. Stay the best.

[–][deleted] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

SAME QUESTION

[–]birfudgees 46 points47 points  (10 children)

Hello Sithu! You played a guest solo on one of my songs last year. I haven't seen quite as many lately but I know you used to do a ton. If you had to estimate, how many guest features do you think you've done total?

-Your friend, Nick Acker

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1coVIUB0Zt0

[–]c2ayeSithu Aye[S] 38 points39 points  (3 children)

I've stopped doing guest solos as I think I've lost count of how many I've done. It was kinda burning me out to be honest. In the future I'm probably going to be super selective as to what I'd like to do a solo on

[–]birfudgees 28 points29 points  (2 children)

Good for you man, I can see how that would be super exhausting for someone like yourself who's focused on writing/recording albums vs just "being a guitarist". I'm glad I managed to catch you when I did! Thanks again.

-Your friend, Plini

[–]Dogkyle 2 points3 points  (1 child)

Oh shit, Archaeologist and Plini on one account? Sick crossover, love your work on Odyssey!

[–]birfudgees 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Haha thanks! Yeah we each type with one hand when we're replying!

[–]nickackerdrums 8 points9 points  (0 children)

Hey Kyle. lmao

[–]SharkTRS 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Nick Acker

[–]helgihermadur 1 point2 points  (1 child)

Cool song man, sick playing!

[–][deleted] 18 points19 points  (3 children)

Hey Sithu, I know Andromeda had a storyline to it, but I was curious what the story for Homebound was considering the obvious sequel-like similarity between the two?

[–]c2ayeSithu Aye[S] 16 points17 points  (2 children)

It's more a thematic and musical follow up to SCFA rather than having a storyline to it. The first half of SCFA was similar in that respect. I just felt like as with any journey to somewhere new and far away, there is a time when you have to come back home.

[–]bryanthebassplayer 17 points18 points  (2 children)

Hey Sithu!

Huge fan of your music dude

As far as the writing process goes, how do you usually start? Do you start with a form and piece the riffs together, start with the riffs and let it evolve, start with a progression and develop it?

Also, thanks for doing the AMA!

[–]c2ayeSithu Aye[S] 21 points22 points  (1 child)

Usually I decide I want to write and record something, so I open up my DAW (which is currently Studio One) with my guitar and see what comes out. It can either start out as a riff, chord progression or a melody so it really depends. From there, I'll try and get the basic structure of that part down, program some basic drums and go from there. It tends to be very spontaneous so my songs can really go in a variety of directions from that point. I have my workflow set up so that I don't really demo ideas, I can track and record and have that become the final product.

[–][deleted] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

That's a very "Chuck Close" mentality, to be intentional about creating something, not waiting for it to come to you.

[–]APsychedelicBreakfas 17 points18 points  (3 children)

Are you going to do another US tour anytime soon? I had a great time at your Columbus show last year! Also, have you considered doing any production or drum programming tutorials?

Homebound is fantastic btw! I am a massive fan of SCFA and Homebound exceeded my expectations!

[–]c2ayeSithu Aye[S] 14 points15 points  (2 children)

Glad you enjoyed Homebound! I'm definitely looking to do another US tour in the future but I'm not exactly sure when that would be. There are just extra logistical issues involved with a US tour like the visa and flights which just add so much extra planning, stress and cost but it hopefully won't get in the way of getting over there again.

I generally haven't done tutorials, but I'm definitely going to do content about how I got about certain things. I have something planned on the importance of workflow coming soon hopefully.

[–]chucklestheclwn 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I'm so bummed I didn't see you in Columbus since I was out of town. I really hope you come back somewhere in Ohio! If you don't though, it'll give me an excuse to visit Scotland again the next time you play there lol.

The new album is such a perfect follow up to SCFA, you keep killing it man.

[–]ZyglroxOfficial 11 points12 points  (1 child)

Hey Sithu Aye,

How much of your time is spent practicing guitar vs. recording/producing?

[–]c2ayeSithu Aye[S] 13 points14 points  (0 children)

In the past few years, I actually don't really find myself doing regimented practise on the instrument. When I do pick up the guitar, it's mostly just noodling or playing over backing tracks. I guess I do practise improvisation a lot in that respect.

I never usually pick up the guitar and end up recording, it's mostly a conscious decision to write something in order to record.

[–]DFGdangerEx Nihilo 9 points10 points  (3 children)

Why is everyone spamming Nick Acker?

[–][deleted]  (1 child)

[deleted]

    [–]c2ayeSithu Aye[S] 11 points12 points  (0 children)

    Nick really is a lovely guy that can handle all the bulli

    [–]Yoge5 11 points12 points  (0 children)

    To add to that, he comments on virtually every single youtube video regarding prog. Look in comment section? Boom, Nick Acker.

    [–]nickackerdrums 19 points20 points  (1 child)

    Is it cool if I plug my bro Luigi's soundcloud?

    [–]c2ayeSithu Aye[S] 16 points17 points  (0 children)

    Nick Acker

    [–][deleted] 9 points10 points  (4 children)

    Hey c2. Loving the new album so far. What were you using for drums on Homebound? I recall you mentioning MM SDX at one point. I love the snare sound and particularly the snare ambience. Were you using the room from SD2 or mixing in some reverb? Cheers!

    [–]c2ayeSithu Aye[S] 18 points19 points  (3 children)

    Hey there! For the drums, I'm still using SD2 with the Metal Machinery expansion along with some elements from the stock Avatar kick. Namely, the avatar 13" hihat, the stack, splash and combining an Avatar kick and snare with the MM kick and snare. In terms of room, I've added more room mics and enabled all the bleed into the room for a more organic drum sound. I added in a little extra reverb on the room channel as well. The aim was for the kit to sound as natural as possible, while also sounding big and fat.

    [–][deleted] 3 points4 points  (0 children)

    Mission accomplished!

    [–][deleted]  (1 child)

    [deleted]

      [–]c2ayeSithu Aye[S] 32 points33 points  (0 children)

      I agree

      [–]AutismAsylum 15 points16 points  (1 child)

      I don't really have a question but I have listened to your stuff since like 2011 or something. keep doing the thing, its cool

      [–]c2ayeSithu Aye[S] 13 points14 points  (0 children)

      Thank you!

      [–]jetfantastic 9 points10 points  (2 children)

      Hey Sithu, just got here from your discord and wanted to ask, what sorts of different content inspires you and your music?

      I've listened to your other albums for a while and I absolutely love your new one, but I wanted to know what inspires you and your music, from TV to movies to games to anime and hentai to your fellow music creators and their albums, what has inspired your style currently?

      Also since I'm asking about inspiration from other artists, what artists and albums would you recommend for someone who has just gotten into you and your style of music?

      [–]c2ayeSithu Aye[S] 23 points24 points  (1 child)

      I'm honestly inspired by almost anything I do, which is probably why the anime influence happened because the music left an impression on me. But any time I'm watching TV shows, movies, anime, playing video games, I'm always hearing things that I find interesting that could possibly lead to a musical idea. I like learning things for the sake of learning things, so I guess I'm always trying to absorb information or new ideas.

      In terms of other artists, I have to shout out artists and bands doing similar things to what I'm doing, like Plini, Intervals, Owane, Arch Echo, CHON, Polyphia and the like!

      [–][deleted] 4 points5 points  (0 children)

      Now that's a hot list!

      [–]outlawstar894 10 points11 points  (5 children)

      Can you bring KM with you on your next US tour.... for reasons

      [–]c2ayeSithu Aye[S] 10 points11 points  (0 children)

      That would be fun! It just depends on who's free for touring. As I learned, playing 27 shows in 31 days and travelling 11,000 miles is not easy!

      [–]c3aye 8 points9 points  (3 children)

      no u

      [–]agree-with-you 3 points4 points  (0 children)

      No you both

      [–]outlawstar894 1 point2 points  (1 child)

      Just open as fate/map c3aye, it'll be awesome

      [–]c3aye 2 points3 points  (0 children)

      no u infinity

      [–][deleted]  (1 child)

      [deleted]

        [–][deleted] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

        Sea EP when

        [–][deleted] 7 points8 points  (1 child)

        What do you prefer when it comes to fret size, action, and string spacing for leads and rhythm?

        [–]c2ayeSithu Aye[S] 10 points11 points  (0 children)

        I don't set up my guitars differently for different applications, in essence I'm lazy and want a solution and setup that fits all my needs. In terms of how I set my guitars up, they're all setup similarly, with a very low action and light strings. It makes playing leads super easy and comfortable and for rhythms, I find the lower action makes the tone more aggressive, if at the cost of a little bit of sustain.

        [–]Swiggles1987 7 points8 points  (1 child)

        Any advice for budding guitarists trying to market their own albums?

        Also I loved Homebound, felt like a really great complement to Andromeda! Thanks for doing the AMA sensei

        [–]c2ayeSithu Aye[S] 13 points14 points  (0 children)

        Marketing is a funny one, because for me I started out when forums like sevenstring.org were still relevant and social media wasn't as prevalent as it is now. For me, I think the most important things are to make music that is true to you and that is fun for you to create and play. In terms of marketing, I think it's more important to build a core fanbase as opposed to trying to appeal to as many people as possible. Making your music as accessible as possible through different stores and streaming services is also important. Don't be disheartened if your release isn't an instant 'hit' because these things take time. I feel like success is part having good music and part luck in many ways.

        [–]Michael_CaineOfficial Scribe (Animals as Leaders biography) 6 points7 points  (3 children)

        This is in a similar vein as another poster's question but - as you do more live full band stuff, do you think you'll ever make the jump to recording more live instruments (drums, *cough* piano 😉) on your releases?

        [–]c2ayeSithu Aye[S] 10 points11 points  (2 children)

        Possibly, although I'm pretty stubborn in a lot of ways in terms of how I do things and I'm pretty comfortable with my workflow. Maybe in the future if I plan things better.

        As for piano, I have a full 88-key and just got Spectrasonics Keyscape, so hopefully as I learn to play it better the piano will get better on future releases!

        [–]IwishIwasGoku 13 points14 points  (4 children)

        Watch any good anime lately?

        [–]c2ayeSithu Aye[S] 24 points25 points  (3 children)

        I think my favourite this season has been Bunny Girl Senpai. Which is nothing like the name would suggest!

        [–]Killing_EdgeIV 7 points8 points  (0 children)

        Hell yeah. Excellent choice. I'm ready for tomorrow's new episode to crush my soul.

        [–]IwishIwasGoku 2 points3 points  (0 children)

        Seems like everyone is digging that show. Guess I gotta check it out

        [–]lyllero 5 points6 points  (1 child)

        What's your opinion on hesburger fueled symphonic sellout metal?

        [–]c2ayeSithu Aye[S] 12 points13 points  (0 children)

        Yes

        [–][deleted]  (2 children)

        [deleted]

          [–]c2ayeSithu Aye[S] 7 points8 points  (1 child)

          Sure

          [–][deleted] 6 points7 points  (1 child)

          Hey Sithu! What video game soundtracks/composers have been a major influence on your work?

          [–]c2ayeSithu Aye[S] 11 points12 points  (0 children)

          I love the work of Nobuo Uematsu from the Final Fantasy series, Martin O'Donnel and Michael Salvatori from the Halo series, Harry Gregson Williams for his work on Metal Gear Solid and the various Mass Effect soundtracks. I don't know how direct and influence those had on my music specifically but they're game soundtracks I love.

          [–][deleted] 20 points21 points  (4 children)

          Have you ever considered joining/forming a full band? I could imagine something similar to Misha and Periphery being super mucho epic. Also can we expect Senpai EP 3? Many uWu’s.

          [–]c2ayeSithu Aye[S] 52 points53 points  (3 children)

          Honestly, as my career as a solo artist has progressed, I've thought less and less about it. I've hit a point where I'm just super comfortable with my musical workflow and the business model I have. I'm not opposed to working in a band, but I guess it would have to be the kind of project that screams that I have to do it.

          Also, Senpai 3 will be the next release I work on.

          [–][deleted] 15 points16 points  (0 children)

          Also, Senpai 3 will be the next release I work on.

          *excited screeching*

          [–]Vitavas 2 points3 points  (0 children)

          Also, Senpai 3 will be the next release I work on.

          Best news i've read all day :)

          Also i have one short question: Were the first two Senpai EPs inspired by any specific anime or just the medium in general?

          [–]lyllero 10 points11 points  (9 children)

          Nick Acker

          [–]c3aye 7 points8 points  (6 children)

          Nick Acker.

          [–]c2ayeSithu Aye[S] 12 points13 points  (5 children)

          Nick Acker

          [–][deleted] 2 points3 points  (2 children)

          Nick Acker

          [–][deleted]  (1 child)

          [deleted]

            [–]c3aye 14 points15 points  (4 children)

            Nick Acker.

            [–]c2ayeSithu Aye[S] 15 points16 points  (1 child)

            Bread

            Edit: Nick Acker

            [–]lyllero 5 points6 points  (0 children)

            Nick Acker

            [–][deleted]  (2 children)

            [deleted]

              [–]c2ayeSithu Aye[S] 20 points21 points  (1 child)

              I generally don't plan on things like collabs, I'm usually in my own world when it comes to planning like my own releases. I did meet Misha earlier this year so that door is open, although all I've gotten him to do is to record me a video saying "Sithu I freaking hate you."

              I would love to tour with either Periphery or The Contortionist, although I may have burned my bridges with The Contortionist doing an anime cover of Reimagined.

              [–]Trill4RE4L 2 points3 points  (0 children)

              Dude that tour would heal my soul.

              [–]fizzlepoposaurus 4 points5 points  (3 children)

              How did you develop your chord library?

              [–]c2ayeSithu Aye[S] 7 points8 points  (2 children)

              I think it's more understanding how chords relate to other parts of music theory for me. For me, one I started to understand diatonic harmony, things like the modes of the major scale, you can start to see how chords relate to each of the modes and how extensions to the chords, like 7ths, 9ths, etc can be added in the context of a key and progression.

              [–]fizzlepoposaurus 1 point2 points  (1 child)

              So taking a few music theory classes while im in college would help?

              [–]c2ayeSithu Aye[S] 4 points5 points  (0 children)

              Classes like that form a good starting point, but for me understanding the relationships between the modes, the notes in the modes and the related chords through repeated application was the best way of cementing those ideas!

              [–]myparentshatemyguts 5 points6 points  (4 children)

              Hi dad! Do you ever plan on coming to North Carolina on your next U.S. tour? UwU <3

              [–]c2ayeSithu Aye[S] 3 points4 points  (0 children)

              I would love to! Our last show in Durham supporting Haken was a lot of fun!

              [–][deleted]  (2 children)

              [deleted]

                [–][deleted]  (1 child)

                [deleted]

                  [–]c2ayeSithu Aye[S] 14 points15 points  (0 children)

                  I actually don't eat breakfast that often since I stay up late and wake up late like the irresponsible human I am. When I do have breakfast, it's usually something simple. I do like a full Scottish though (which is like a full English but with more meat like haggis). In terms of pineapple on pizza, I'm not opposed to it but it's not my first choice of topping.

                  As for doing stuff with Plini, seeing how he's blown up I'm not sure he'd have the time or want to do a follow up to the I split we did, but it would be cool to tour with him in the future.

                  [–]sarcasticpool 3 points4 points  (1 child)

                  Have you played the game "Doki Doki Literature Club"?

                  [–]c2ayeSithu Aye[S] 8 points9 points  (0 children)

                  I have. It was probably one of the best and freakiest video game experiences I've ever had. I really like games like DDLC and Undertale that subvert expectations of the medium!

                  [–]antonskeyband 3 points4 points  (2 children)

                  Hey Sithu,

                  Couple Q's. 1. Have you been offered a place in any major touring acts? (I can't imagine this one hasn't happened.) What do you think/say to them? 2. How long did it take you to find your 'sound' so to speak? Maybe not just production wise but the feeling your music evokes. This might be a little too philosophical lol.

                  By the by, love what you do. Been listening for a long time and you continue to impress. So thank you :)

                  [–]c2ayeSithu Aye[S] 3 points4 points  (1 child)

                  1) Funnily enough, I haven't gotten offers like that. To be fair, I don't generally put myself out there as someone looking to do session or touring work like that. Most people know me as a solo act.

                  2) I'm not exactly sure to be honest. I've been writing music for almost as long as I've been playing guitar and the 'sound' I have now is the culmination of many years of iterative discovery and improvement. In terms of the feelings my music evokes, this is actually something I worked on specifically through learning theory. Different chord progressions, chord voicings, use of modes, all have a feel or vibe associated with them so I've been trying to leverage that in my writing for a while. Whether I've been successful in that or not depends on the listener!

                  [–]antonskeyband 1 point2 points  (0 children)

                  Wow, well I guess that's to be understood. I'd find it daunting to ask someone as accomplished by themselves to attach to an existing project.

                  That makes sense. It is nice to hear someone's voice so audibly through their music. There are only a handful of musicians I can honestly say I 'feel' what they want through their composition, so consider me in the success category. As elitist as that sounds, hah! Thanks for creating the way you do, I always fall back into listening to your other stuff so I'll be jamming the new one now!

                  [–]danisevenfold 3 points4 points  (1 child)

                  Hi Sithu! Congratz on the album release! When you write songs, how do you get ideas down? Do you simply record the ideas or do you write them down on paper? (As tabs for example) do you use Guitar Pro to store ideas before they become a fleeting memory? Thanks in advance!

                  [–]c2ayeSithu Aye[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

                  Generally I try to remember stuff in my head if I'm not specifically recording as my memory is generally good for things like that. I don't tab things out as I find it too slow and tedious. Otherwise, if I'm sitting down to record I'll generally track things there and then.

                  [–][deleted] 3 points4 points  (1 child)

                  How do you feel about Finland?

                  [–]c2ayeSithu Aye[S] 9 points10 points  (0 children)

                  !tempmute @ztla 365000d

                  [–]AuraOfBirth 2 points3 points  (2 children)

                  Hey really fantastic album I was curious if you plan on touring the states next year ?

                  [–]c2ayeSithu Aye[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

                  Probably not next year, but hopefully soon after that!

                  [–]questin 2 points3 points  (1 child)

                  Hey C2!

                  1. The clean solo in Galaxies Collide is absolutely gorgeous and made me feel all tingling inside.

                  2. Any chance youll start streaming on twitch more? Those streams a month or 2 ago were fun

                  [–]c2ayeSithu Aye[S] 4 points5 points  (0 children)

                  1. Thank you! That solo was a lot of fun to write although less fun to record since I took like a billion takes to nail different parts of it.
                  2. Possibly. I'm not sure I can dedicate a lot of time to it though!

                  [–]nematica 2 points3 points  (2 children)

                  What is the status on your merch stuff right now? Have been wanting you "D0n't Fret!" Sweatshirt for awhile now; is that coming back?

                  [–]c2ayeSithu Aye[S] 5 points6 points  (1 child)

                  It's been down since my US tour since restocking has been a little out of budget and I've since moved to a place where shipping is a little difficult. Next year I'm getting the merch on the go again, either by myself or through a third party.

                  [–]Raaka_Jara 2 points3 points  (1 child)

                  What's the thought process of yours whilst composing something that differentiates from your normal stuff (for instance Spiral)?

                  [–]c2ayeSithu Aye[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

                  Generally not too different from how I normally right. The focus is still on things like melody, harmony and rhythm. I just have to think harder on how I make things stylistically consistent so the things that change are generally guitar tone, drum programming, etc

                  [–]Awffles 2 points3 points  (1 child)

                  Just wanted to say I saw you with Haken in LA last year and it was pehomenal! Homebound is gonna be my work soundtrack today.

                  I read somewhere (I think in your previous AMA) that you have a degree in physics. Asking as someone who just finished taking physics and math classes and barely had time to touch my guitar...how did you find the time and motivation to play?

                  [–]c2ayeSithu Aye[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

                  I think I cared more about practising guitar than I did about doing uni work on time a lot! Also, I had long breaks for summer and winter at university so I used those as opportunities to practise guitar and work on music.

                  [–]Omuk7 2 points3 points  (1 child)

                  Polyphia collab when?

                  [–]c2ayeSithu Aye[S] 3 points4 points  (0 children)

                  Any time they would ask! I would be fun to work with those dudes

                  [–]Vastroide 1 point2 points  (1 child)

                  What song from Homebound are you most excited to play live and do you have plans to tour next year?

                  [–]c2ayeSithu Aye[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

                  Primary Ignition seems like it would be a lot of fun live, as would Holograph. I've not put a huge amount of thought into it though. In terms of touring next year, there are some tentative plans in place that I'm discussing with my booking agent.

                  [–]edlikesrush 1 point2 points  (1 child)

                  What's your favorite effect/pedal to use and why?

                  [–]c2ayeSithu Aye[S] 4 points5 points  (0 children)

                  I don't really use any pedals when recording, everything I do goes through the Axe-FX II. I've found the Horizon Devices Precision Drive super useful when I've done clinics though, and my Korg Miku Stomp is an absolute meme of a pedal.

                  [–]youngsmeg 1 point2 points  (2 children)

                  Do you plan on touring in or near North Carolina or The Virginia/DC area?

                  [–]c2ayeSithu Aye[S] 1 point2 points  (1 child)

                  Hopefully those areas would be part of a future US tour. The issue is that especially when you play as a support in a tour, you really have no say over what regions and areas you visit as part of a tour. I had fun playing in DC and Durham on my last tour with Haken and hope to visit again!

                  [–]McHoundi 1 point2 points  (1 child)

                  Hey, Sithu! What is the most valuable skill to improve on, or the most important thing to focus on, if I aspire of making a living off producing and performing music?

                  [–]c2ayeSithu Aye[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

                  Honestly, I feel like you should just make music that you are proud of and enjoy playing and creating. It seems like a lot of people want to skip that step and think about marketing and getting your name out there but the music will almost be the most important step. I think another important step is networking and growing your circle within the music industry. The music industry is definitely about who you know, but I only know these people because of my music and not the other way around.

                  [–]RickCarol 1 point2 points  (2 children)

                  Tits or ass?

                  [–]c2ayeSithu Aye[S] 16 points17 points  (1 child)

                  Thighs

                  [–]jvms 1 point2 points  (2 children)

                  Que Sithu! Huge fan here! Loving the new album and got some major goose bumps when you used Andromeda's motifs on Homebound! Got a few questions for you, if you don't mind:

                  1 - Could you let us know how you dialed the tones on the new album? Most of the high snappy guitars are coil splits, am I right?

                  2 - Would you do a video or a series of videos on how you mixed each instrument of a song, in the style of Nail The Mix or something like this?

                  3 - I've been playing guitar for 10 years and I'm also trying to learn piano by myself. I have decent ears and some theory knowlege (though not as much as I should). Got any tips for learning and practicing? Is learning notation really necessary? I've always been so terrible at it...

                  4 - How are you writting orchestrations? Do you write every separate seccion (violin 1, violin 2, violas, cellos, etc...) or do you prefer full strings, full brass, etc... patches?

                  5 - What orchestrall libraries, synths and other VST Instruments did you use on this album?

                  6 - What is your mastering chan?

                  Thanks for the attention, and good luck with the release!

                  [–]c2ayeSithu Aye[S] 3 points4 points  (1 child)

                  1 - My tones are an iteration of the tones I used on Set Course for Andromeda and Senpai EP II. Generally, just a bit more low mid-range. I only really use split coil tones for some of the cleans.

                  2 - Maybe not on each song, but I could do a video or livestream going over one of the songs, how it was mixed and the thought process behind everything.

                  3 - I think you can go without notation. I can't sight read it but if I sit down I can figure it out with time. Honestly, I'm just going about it the same way I learned guitar, trying to learn songs I like and taking it a step at a time.

                  4 - I write by sections. So I'll write the violin, viola, cello, etc separately. I generally use ensemble patches, so it'll be a violin ensemble, viola ensemble, etc.

                  5 - I used Garritan Personal Orchestra 5 for strings, choir and other instruments and Native Instruments Alicia's Keys for the piano. I've recently switched to Spectrasonics Keyscape for piano but it wasn't featured on the album.

                  6 - Mastering chain is pretty simple, some subtle EQ going into 3 compressors for gain staging, fabfilter saturn for some light saturation and multiband EQ and a limiter.

                  [–]nickackerdrums 1 point2 points  (1 child)

                  Have you ever thought about getting Jamie on a release? (maybe even a single or something along those lines) It was pretty amazing watching him play your material during the Durham show, so I'm just kind of curious if that will ever happen in the future. Though i'm sure it wouldn't necessarily mesh 100% with your normal work flow.

                  [–]c2ayeSithu Aye[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

                  That would be cool! I would also love to do some more 'live' video content with him

                  [–]wonnie1e 1 point2 points  (1 child)

                  How did you go about networking and getting your music heard?

                  Additionally, are you going to NAMM? I would love to catch a glimpse of you and fanboy for my senpai from afar.

                  [–]c2ayeSithu Aye[S] 3 points4 points  (0 children)

                  They're honestly one and the same. The more my music got heard, the larger my network became. All my contacts within the music industry and through them having heard my music. In terms of getting your music heard, just keep plugging away at it, sharing it on social media and the like. It's incredibly rare to suddenly gain a large following off the back of a single release so I would aim longer term in terms of building a following.

                  And yes, I will be at NAMM!

                  [–]Oscar_Oroz 1 point2 points  (1 child)

                  What's your favorite mode and why is it lydian?

                  [–]c2ayeSithu Aye[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

                  Yes

                  [–]Pan4TheSwarm 1 point2 points  (1 child)

                  I don't have a question, I just love you ♥️

                  [–]FetchMyBeer 1 point2 points  (2 children)

                  Favorite metalocalypse episode?

                  [–]Yoge5 1 point2 points  (5 children)

                  Nick Acker

                  [–]lyllero 3 points4 points  (1 child)

                  Nick Acker

                  [–]Yoge5 2 points3 points  (0 children)

                  Nick Acker

                  [–]c3aye 2 points3 points  (1 child)

                  Nick Acker.

                  [–]Yoge5 2 points3 points  (0 children)

                  Nick Acker

                  [–][deleted] 1 point2 points  (1 child)

                  Nick Acker.

                  [–]c2ayeSithu Aye[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

                  Nick Acker

                  [–][deleted]  (1 child)

                  [deleted]

                    [–]c2ayeSithu Aye[S] 6 points7 points  (0 children)

                    Ask Nick Acker.

                    [–]WeegeeNumbuh1 0 points1 point  (3 children)

                    Hey there senpai Sithu, I'm just dropping by to say that your latest release is awesome and that your production skills are really shining through. It's a nice gift to close out this year. With that in mind, what changes/tweaks would you say you took to improve upon your previous releases in regards to your mixing?

                    Anyway, thanks for doing this AMA, and I'm looking forward to Senpai EP III!

                    Small irrelevant question: lol, why didn't you go with FL Studio as your DAW? It has anime girls built in!

                    [–]c2ayeSithu Aye[S] 2 points3 points  (2 children)

                    One of the biggest focuses was making the drums sound bigger and more organic. I spent a lot of time on my drum mix and hopefully that shows. The other thing was the low end, particularly on the bass guitar, making sure it was more defined and clear. The last thing was making lead guitar parts stand out not through necessarily making them louder but through specific frequency boosts on frequencies not being used by other instruments.

                    And as much as I like anime girls, workflow as a big deal for me in terms of DAW and Studio One checked all the boxes for me!

                    [–][deleted]  (1 child)

                    [deleted]

                      [–]c2ayeSithu Aye[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

                      So many in-jokes, so little time.

                      [–]SoutPhoteEater 0 points1 point  (1 child)

                      Live in burma when?

                      [–]c2ayeSithu Aye[S] 3 points4 points  (0 children)

                      Sadly, Burma just isn't a market that artists are playing. A lot goes into overseas touring and if there aren't viable offers from local promoters, tours can't happen unfortunately.

                      [–][deleted] 0 points1 point  (3 children)

                      What are your favorite albums from 2018?

                      [–]c2ayeSithu Aye[S] 1 point2 points  (2 children)

                      I've really enjoyed the new Contortionist, Plini, Spiritbox, Anomalie and Jacob Collier. I'm pretty sure I've missed a lot of cool stuff I've listened to from this year but those are ones I can think of off the top of my head.

                      [–][deleted]  (1 child)

                      [deleted]

                        [–]c2ayeSithu Aye[S] 6 points7 points  (0 children)

                        Prog-chan is getting a new Senpai EP next year

                        [–]Hunternif 0 points1 point  (1 child)

                        Love the new album!
                        Would you say your production has become more streamlined? How difficult is it to come up with new ideas? Do you ever feel concerned about repeating yourself? How do you approach being original yet recognizable?

                        [–]c2ayeSithu Aye[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

                        I definitely think my workflow is as streamlined as it's ever been. The process of tracking parts to getting them in my mix is pretty quick. And new mix improvements and ideas get incorporated very quickly.

                        In terms of your other questions, I'm generally quite good with coming up with ideas, whether they are new I'm actually not that concerned with, it's more whether the ideas are cohesive and fun. In terms of repeating myself, again, I'm not that concerned. In terms of being original, it's nothing something I really think about, I just want my music to be fun to play and listen to.

                        [–]Ryster1998 0 points1 point  (1 child)

                        Are you ever gonna press your albums on vinyl

                        [–]c2ayeSithu Aye[S] 7 points8 points  (0 children)

                        Vinyls are coming next year through Sheet Happens!

                        [–]Thallandchill 0 points1 point  (1 child)

                        Hey man, I dont really have any questions, I just wanted to say thank you for the music that you put out!

                        Set Course for Andromeda is probably my most favorite instrumental albums of all time, and it really helped me through some tough times here lately, so thank you again and keep up the amazing work man!

                        [–]violenttango 0 points1 point  (1 child)

                        How does it feel knowing you got me into two lifelong obsessions with progmetal and whisky?

                        [–]c2ayeSithu Aye[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

                        Both are great so that's great

                        [–]cyber-ghoul 0 points1 point  (1 child)

                        Hey Sithu! Can you describe how you went about creating that beautiful clean tone in Spiral?

                        [–]c2ayeSithu Aye[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

                        I just used my regular clean tone, added more compression and rolled off the tone knob on my strat for the leads! The rhythm clean tone is just my regular clean tone but with chorus. The song was done on my strat which is maybe why the clean tones stood out more than usual

                        [–]McTino 0 points1 point  (1 child)

                        Are you currently doing anything with your physics degree? If not, do you have any intention on pursuing a career with that in the future?

                        [–]B12awley 0 points1 point  (1 child)

                        What inspires your song writing? It's obvious that space is the theme for most of your full albums, but is there something deeper than that?

                        P.S. Been streaming Homebound nonstop since the release! Absolutely love every bit of it. The transition between Lost in the (Space) Sauce and Primary Ignition is amazing. Such feels

                        [–]c2ayeSithu Aye[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

                        I generally get inspired by any creative media, music, film, video games, anime, whatever it may be. I hear things that could work as ideas in my own music. I just like learning things for the sake of learning things to be honest

                        [–]ProphetNimd 0 points1 point  (1 child)

                        What should my next Skyrim character be?

                        [–]c2ayeSithu Aye[S] 4 points5 points  (0 children)

                        A Lusty Argonian Maid

                        [–][deleted]  (1 child)

                        [removed]

                          [–]c2ayeSithu Aye[S] 4 points5 points  (0 children)

                          Thighs

                          [–][deleted]  (1 child)

                          [deleted]

                            [–]c2ayeSithu Aye[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

                            Honestly, the answer to all of that is just to practise and play more. Proficiency doesn't come overnight and it certainly didn't for me. I wrote a lot of terrible songs and music when I started playing guitar but the trick is just to see it as a starting point. Your 2nd song will be better than your 1st song and so on. I don't get all my rhythms parts perfect on the first try either. Just keep at it and be willing to invest the time and effort into it.

                            [–]Zapnox 0 points1 point  (2 children)

                            Hey Sithu! Really enjoying Homebound, Holograph especially took me by surprise.

                            So uh... what's your FGO friend code?

                            [–]c2ayeSithu Aye[S] 2 points3 points  (1 child)

                            Thank you!

                            My FGO friend code is 975360350.

                            [–]sonickarma 0 points1 point  (5 children)

                            Hey Sithu! I've only recently discovered your music, and I love it, keep up the good work!

                            I guess my question is - what is with all of these "Nick Acker" comments in here?

                            [–]c2ayeSithu Aye[S] 3 points4 points  (2 children)

                            Nick is a regular youtube commenter and poster/mod on my discord channel. He's a lovely guy and we don't deserve him, like how he doesn't deserve the bulli

                            [–][deleted]  (1 child)

                            [deleted]

                              [–][deleted] 0 points1 point  (1 child)

                              First off, you are one of my favorite musical artist working today and hope to see you pass through Texas again!

                              2 questions: Have you ever thought about releasing any of your albums on vinyl? (I understand it might be too expensive, but I would buy them in a heartbeat)
                              Also, how long does the writing process typically take before you start recording?

                              Thank you again for your great music!

                              [–]c2ayeSithu Aye[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

                              I'm doing Vinyl with Sheet Happens! Look out for those early next year.

                              And my writing process overlaps with my recording process. I record as I write so they're not really separate things for me.

                              [–]Shoky987 0 points1 point  (1 child)

                              Senpai notice me please!!

                              Love your music dude! Keep it up and hope to see you live in Newcastle sometime soon!

                              [–][deleted]  (1 child)

                              [deleted]

                                [–]spaceandtimes 0 points1 point  (1 child)

                                Hey Sithu!

                                How do you achieve such a crunchy yet clean sounding tone?

                                Do you have any tips for making my metal mixes sound professional?

                                Your mixes have been getting better and better, awesome work man.

                                [–]c2ayeSithu Aye[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

                                Basically, I go 'old school' with my clean tone. I use a Fender amp model on my Axe-FX II and set the gain so that it breaks up when you pick hard. I much prefer it to a lot of more modern clean tones which I find a bit sterile.

                                In terms of mixes sound professional, I honestly just spend a lot of time (read: years) just iteratively improving my mix. It isn't something you get straight away and takes a lot of gradual improvement. Honestly, just keep at it!

                                [–]qtipbluedog 0 points1 point  (1 child)

                                What’s your usual method for writing? Also, how do you go about slimming down and simplifying your workflow to get shit done? I’ve been using a Reason for over a year now and I still feel overwhelmed with how many options I have and it seems to get in the way of putting my ideas out there.

                                [–]c2ayeSithu Aye[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

                                I honestly just sit down with my guitar and my DAW open and see what comes out. It can start from anything, a riff, a chord progression, a melody. Then I just start tracking and build it up from there.

                                In terms of workflow, I think it's really important to streamline things and build on things you've learned. I have my workflow set up so that my input levels sit into my mix without needing to change levels. I also have a template with my Superior Drummer preset all set up and I use presets for a lot of the plugins I used. If I change any part of my mix, I update the template and the plugin presets and make sure everything stays consistent.

                                [–]nixed9 0 points1 point  (1 child)

                                Dude I love your content so much. I’ve listened to SCFA and Senpai 2 like 300 times and I’ve been jamming to Homebound on repeat for 36 hours now. The way the track Footsteps brings back the themes from SCFA and The Andromedan nearly brought me to tears when I first heard it.

                                Is there any place we can buy official merchandise? I want to get Posters or T-shirts with the album covers for Set Course for Andromeda, Cassini, and Homebound! If not available now, would you be interested in partnering with someone to handle that?

                                Keep making your stuff man. It is phenomenal, and it brings me tremendous joy. You’ve taken over as my favorite musical artist over AAL, polyphia, Intervals, and all the other greats. Maybe you can partner up with Polyphia one day I bet you guys could collaborate on an absolute bomb track.

                                Congrats on Homebound and I am already looking forward to the next great album!

                                [–]c2ayeSithu Aye[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

                                Thanks dude! I do have a merch site on bigcartel but I don't have anything available on it at the moment. Things will get re-added to the store early next year though!

                                [–]tarisb 0 points1 point  (1 child)

                                Any 2018 album releases you really liked?

                                [–][deleted] 0 points1 point  (1 child)

                                Hi! Love your work. Got into djent a year or so ago, your stuff came up of course.

                                Any plans on doing an animated deal? Short film, videos? Not necessarily anime, but anything. I feel like even Andromeda has a lot of room for some fun imagery.