Sonuscore, a renowned music software company, has recently announced the release of Dhol Ensemble, a free library for Kontakt (full version). This new library is a significant addition to the music production world, especially for those interested in incorporating authentic South Caucasus percussion sounds into their compositions.
The Dhol Ensemble library offers a unique opportunity to explore the rich and vibrant sounds of the dhol, a traditional hand drum that is the primary rhythmic percussion backing for folk music in the South Caucasus region. This instrument is known for its ability to stir up emotions and tension in cinematic pieces, as well as provide a strong rhythmic grounding for folk music styles.
The dhol’s mid-range tones make it a potent alternative to taikos, commonly used to build up energy in compositions. This free library now allows composers and producers to add a touch of authenticity, energy, and movement to their pieces using the dhol’s distinctive sound.
The Dhol Ensemble was recorded on a scoring stage at Georgian Film in Tbilisi, Georgia. The recording process involved pairs of dhols with a center percussionist, replicating the feel of a 5-person ensemble. This meticulous approach has resulted in a deeply sampled instrument that includes 5 velocity layers and 8 round robins. These features facilitate the creation of customized, authentic-sounding percussion phrases.
