sidechain compression
A production technique where one audio signal controls the compressor on another, creating a rhythmic pumping effect.
In Depth
In sidechain compression, a compressor on one track (typically bass or pads) is triggered by another track (typically the kick drum). Every time the kick hits, the compressor ducks the bass or pad volume momentarily, then releases. This creates the characteristic pumping or breathing effect ubiquitous in EDM, French house, and modern pop. It also ensures the kick drum punches through dense mixes by automatically making space for it.
Daft Punk popularised sidechain compression as a musical effect rather than just a mixing tool, making the pumping sound a defining characteristic of French house music.