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Taylor Larson mixes "Fragments" by Jason Richardson
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Jason Richardson’s “Fragments” is one of the most technically intense compositions in modern progressive metal—and it’s not just about speed or precision. Co-written with drummer Luke Holland, this track from his solo album “”I”” showcases a seamless fusion of shred guitar mastery, cinematic orchestration, and relentless rhythmic complexity. Every section pushes genre boundaries with sudden changes in time signature, rapid-fire syncopation, and layers of guitars moving in contrasting harmonic and textural directions. It’s not just heavy. It’s complex music executed at a high level of musicianship.
Mixed by Taylor Larson (Periphery, Veil of Maya, Within Temptation) at Oceanic Recording, this session shows exactly why Larson is known for his ability to maintain clarity and punch in aggressive, high-density mixes. His workflow on “Fragments” required surgical frequency carving to make room for Richardson’s layered guitar work and programmed elements without losing weight in the drums or presence in the guitar leads. The track also features thick saturation on guitars, deep stereo imaging, and highly sculpted drum compression—vital when kick bursts, ghost notes, and hyper-syncopated fills are all fighting for listener attention.
Download the multitracks to see how Taylor managed brightness without harshness in the top end, balanced multiple guitars across both rhythm and lead roles, and preserved dynamic range in a wall-of-sound arrangement. This is a challenge even for seasoned mixers, and an opportunity to practice separation, tone-shaping, and mix translation with ultra-dense source material. If you’re into making complex heavy music sound massive, this is one to dig into.
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