Joe Chiccarelli adds punch and character to hip-hop drums using parallel compression and EQ.
He starts with the UAD Neve 33609 compressor, set to a 3:1 ratio and fast release, to enhance the size, punch, and depth of the drum sound.
Following compression, Chiccarelli uses the UAD API 550A EQ to further shape the parallel bus. He boosts 9 dB at 100 Hz for a powerful low end and adds presence by pushing frequencies at 800 Hz and 5 kHz.
This parallel processing technique results in a drum sound that is both punchy and characterful, standing out clearly in the mix.