How To Make
How To Make Darkwave with Sensho
Course description
Welcome to Darkwave Takeover month at Sonic Academy! To kick things off, Sensho returns with an all-new 'How To Make' course, diving deep into the dark, atmospheric world of 80s-inspired Darkwave — blending analogue character with modern digital production techniques to capture the essence of the genre.
Starting from a completely blank project, you'll build punchy yet powerful drums before designing a driving bassline and detuned lead in ANA 2 to create the track’s central hook. From there, we map out the arrangement and explore the creation of haunting analogue textures, evolving atmospheres, and immersive sound design techniques that bring the production to life.
Along the way, we craft and process a sinister vocal, before finishing the track with a polished mixdown and master ready for the club or your next DJ set.
The result is a dark, synth-heavy, cinematic track packed with eerie energy and unmistakable Darkwave vibes — the perfect blend of retro inspiration and modern production.
But that's not all...!
To celebrate this event we're hosting another Remix Competition where you can use your newfound skills and make your very own version of this track with some incredible and exclusive prizes up for grabs!
Find out more by clicking on the 'REMIX COMPETITION' tab above!
Contest Ends 22/06/2026 - 23:59 PT
Throughout this event, we'll be chatting with you guys and answering any questions both in the comments section here and over on our dedicated forums page here!
You can also check a Spotify Playlist we've put together here
- Tutorials
- Comments
- Resources 6
- Remix competition
Intro and Genre
Drums
Bass and Lead
Structure and Additional Parts
Transitions and Vocals
Mixing and Mastering
Course Resources
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