Using two rim shot samples at different velocities instead of a snare/clap creates a lighter UKG feel with a call-and-response dynamic between two drum voices

Rather than a conventional snare or clap on beats 2 and 4, the tutorial uses two different rim shot samples. The first rim shot covers upbeats; both rim shots appear together on syncopated hits. Crucially, velocities are tweaked per hit so the two samples interact as distinct voices — the listener hears them as a call-and-response dialogue rather than a unison sound. Rim shots are lighter and less aggressive than snares or claps, which suits UKG’s soulful, upbeat feel. EQ applied: sweep away low frequencies up to 170Hz; roll off highs down to 6kHz. A small reverb on the first rim shot is described as bedding the sound in the mix without being audible as reverb.

Examples

Step 2: Rim Shot 1 on upbeats. Rim Shot 1 + Rim Shot 2 on syncopated hits. RS2 pitched up +2 semitones. EQ on both: cut below 170Hz, roll off above 6kHz. RS1 gets subtle reverb. ‘You know it’s the right amount of reverb when you hardly notice it’s there until you mute the effect.‘

Assessment

Why would the tutorial choose rim shots over a snare for UK Garage? Explain the ‘talk and response’ effect created by using two rim shots at different velocities. What does cutting below 170Hz in the rim shot EQ achieve sonically?