Crisp hats optimized for fast, complex rolling patterns with sudden velocity changes.
The hi-hat patterns in Black Kray tracks aren't usually filled with the hyper-fast, complex rolls found in modern plugg or drill music. Simple, hypnotic rolling patterns.
To understand the drum kit, you have to understand the genre. In the mid-2010s, producers like Kane Grocerys, Working on Dying (Oogiemane, Forza, Filthy), and Black Kray himself began experimenting with a high-BPM, high-energy style.
A lot of kits on the market right now are just re-packaged stock sounds, but this one actually delivers on the "dark" aesthetic. Here is why I black kray drum kit
Black Kray’s production is characterized by a "lo-fi," "crunchy," and often "atmospheric" sound. His music blends diverse influences, including Southern trap, witch house, and ethereal psychedelic samples. A drum kit tailored to this style typically includes: Heavily Distorted 808s
According to breakdown videos of tracks like "Choppa City Lone" and "Yam Yafa," the key is often simplicity: Usually ranges from 140 to 160 BPM.
Snare samples pulled directly from old Memphis phonk tracks, complete with background hiss. 3. Hi-Hats and Open Hats Crisp hats optimized for fast, complex rolling patterns
While traditional cloud rap hovers around 120–130 BPM, Black Kray's "tread" style pushes boundaries. Experiment with tempos ranging from . The contrast between a slow, dreamy melody and lightning-fast drums creates an incredible energy. Embrace the Soft Clipper
Having the right samples is only half the battle; the mix dictates the final vibe. Follow these production tips to get the authentic underground sound:
: Powerful, saturated bass sounds that often "clip" or "glue" with the kick drum to create a gritty energy. Lo-fi Percussion To understand the drum kit, you have to understand the genre
A is not about pristine, isolated sounds. It is about character . You are looking for dirt, warble, and nostalgia.
Focus on leveling and "rough" mixing to ensure sounds feel cohesive but maintain a "raw" edge.
Look for melancholic instruments like dark harps, detuned synths, music boxes, or slowed-down R&B vocal samples.
Watch how producers utilize these sounds to create the signature Black Kray aesthetic:
The sound encapsulated by a Black Kray drum kit paved the way for multiple generations of SoundCloud rap and modern plugg music. Artists ranging from Lil Peep to modern underground icons have drawn inspiration from the raw, unpolished, and emotional production style of Goth Money Records.