Background tracks are an incredible way to practice making music. The ability to perform with harmony can elevate any practice session or performance. Playing with tracks can also build ear training.
When it comes to creating background tracks, several applications offer a range of features to suit different needs. Below is an overview of some options we recommend, including their pros and cons:
1. Band-in-a-Box
Overview: Band-in-a-Box is a comprehensive music creation software that allows users to generate full arrangements by inputting chords, selecting a style, and setting the tempo. It utilizes “RealTracks,” which are recordings of real musicians, to produce authentic-sounding accompaniments. This is one of the most comprehensive options available and a favorite here at Musical Wonders. This is the primary application we use for making our background tracks.
Pros:
Realistic Sound: The inclusion of RealTracks provides high-quality, lifelike instrument sounds.
Extensive Style Library: Offers a vast array of musical styles and genres.
Customization: Users can fine-tune arrangements, including instrumentation and solos.
Cons:
Complex Interface: The software has a can have a steep learning curve due to its extensive features. However, once mastered, track generation its very fast.
Cost: Higher price point compared to some alternatives. Many different tiers are available.
Link: Band-in-a-Box Official Website
2. SessionBand
Overview: SessionBand is an app that allows users to create professional-quality backing tracks by selecting and combining different musical loops. It’s particularly popular among musicians looking to quickly generate accompaniment in various styles. There are many different versions available for different genres.
Pros:
Quick Track Creation: Enables rapid assembly of backing tracks using pre-recorded loops. Making tracks takes just a few minutes.
Genre-Specific Packs: Offers specialized packs tailored to specific musical genres.
Realistic Sound: These tracks are made with precision cut loops from live performers. This creates a fantastic sound quality.
Cons:
Loop-Based Limitations: Tracks may sound repetitive due to reliance on loops.
Additional Costs: Some genre packs require separate purchases.
iOS only: only available on iPad and iPhone
Link: SessionBand Official Website
3. iReal Pro
Overview: iReal Pro is a versatile app designed for musicians to practice, perform, and compose. It provides chord charts and backing tracks for thousands of songs and allows users to create their own chord charts. This is a very popular app particular among jazz musicians due to the chord chart library available through the forums.
Pros:
User-Friendly: Intuitive interface that’s easy to navigate.
Portability: Available on multiple platforms, including iOS and Android, making it convenient for on-the-go use.
Community Resources: Access to a vast library of user-generated chord charts.
Cons:
Synthetic Sound: Relies on MIDI sounds, which may lack the realism of live instruments.
Limited Customization: Offers fewer options for arranging and editing tracks compared to more advanced software.
Link: iReal Pro Official Website
4. GarageBand
Overview: GarageBand is a digital audio workstation (DAW) developed by Apple. It’s known for its user-friendly interface and comes pre-installed on macOS and iOS devices. The software offers a range of virtual instruments and pre-recorded loops.
Pros:
Free for Apple Users: Included with Apple devices at no additional cost.
Ease of Use: Straightforward interface suitable for beginners.
Virtual Instruments: Comes with a variety of built-in instruments and loops.
Touch interface: The touch interface in iPad allows intuitive input of tracks and virtual instruments.
Cons:
Limited Advanced Features: May not satisfy the needs of professional users seeking the advanced functionalities of a full featured DAW.
Apple Ecosystem: Not available for Windows or Android users.
Time Intensive: While using a DAW gives you more customization than the previous applications, this is a more time intensive way to build background tracks.
Link: GarageBand Official Website
5. ChordBot
Overview: ChordBot is an app designed for creating and experimenting with chord progressions and backing tracks. It offers a range of comping styles and instrumentation options. Tracks are built by adding instruments and comping patterns.
Pros:
Intuitive Design: Simplifies the process of creating chord progressions.
Versatile: Suitable for songwriting, practice, and experimentation.
Cons:
Sound Quality: May not match the realism of software using actual instrument recordings.
Feature Set: Less comprehensive compared to full-fledged DAWs.
Link: ChordBot Official Website
6. DAWs with Auto-Accompaniment Features
Overview: Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs) like Logic Pro, FL Studio, and Ableton Live offer extensive music production capabilities, including virtual instruments and auto-accompaniment features.
Pros:
Comprehensive Tools: Provide a full suite of production and editing tools.
High-Quality Sounds: Offer realistic instrument plugins and extensive libraries.
Cons:
Learning Curve: Can be complex and may require time to master.
Cost: Often come with a higher price tag.
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Conclusion
Selecting the right application for creating background tracks depends on your specific needs, budget, and platform preference. Band-in-a-Box and iReal Pro are excellent for quick backing track generation, with the former offering more realistic sounds and the latter being more portable and user-friendly. GarageBand serves as a great starting point for Apple users, while SessionBand and ChordBot provide loop-based and chord-focused alternatives, respectively. For those seeking comprehensive production capabilities, exploring full-featured DAWs may be the best route, but will be more time consuming.