Learning to Sing Like Alt-J

If you want to learn how to sing like Alt-J, then there are a few things you should keep in mind. This indie rock band from England has a unique vocal style that features falsetto, intricate harmonies, and layered vocals. In this article, we’ll explore some of the techniques and characteristics of Alt-J’s singing style and how you can develop similar skills.

Vocal Characteristics of Alt-J

1. Falsetto
   Alt-J’s music makes extensive use of falsetto in their vocal arrangements. Falsetto is the upper register of the voice and is used to produce a light, airy tone. The vocalist will sing notes at a higher pitch than their natural register, often to produce a haunting or ethereal sound.
2. Breathy tone
   Another notable characteristic in Alt-J's music is a breathy vocal style. This creates a hazy, dreamy atmosphere that complements their intricate harmonies. As you sing, try to reduce the amount of tension in your vocal cords, resulting in a relaxed, airy sound.
3. Layered Vocals
   Alt-J also uses layered vocals to create subtle harmonies throughout each of their tracks. When singing, consider adding harmonies to your lead vocal and layering multiple harmonies on top of each other to create a similar effect.
4. Unusual Phrasing
   Alt-J frequently uses unusual phrasing, rhythm, and melodies in their music, which can be difficult for a beginner to replicate. However, you can learn to achieve similar effects through experimentation and by developing your own unique style.

Training for Alt-J-style Singing

1. Vocal Warm-Ups
   Before any singing, it's essential to warm up your voice to avoid straining your vocal cords. Check out our Farinelli Breathing exercise to prepare your breath for lengthy singing sessions.
2. Improve Your Range
   As falsetto is a prominent feature of Alt-J's singing style, it may be helpful to focus on expanding your vocal range. Our Vocal range test can help you determine your vocal range and identify areas you need to work on.
3. Harmonising
   Try layering your vocal recordings with either recordings you made earlier or by adding harmonies while recording. This site offers useful tips and exercises to develop your skills: Pitch Training - Educational Singing Game
4. Practice Your Breath Control
   Breath support is also crucial to singing in the Alt-J style. Our Breath support article will teach you how to control your breathing and put less pressure on your vocal cords, enabling you to hold long, breathy notes like those in an Alt-J song.
5. Improve Your Articulation
   Alt-J's music may feature unusual melodies and phrasing, but they still enunciate their words. Clear articulation ensures that listeners can understand the lyrics. Check out this Articulation article to learn more about proper pronunciation while singing.
6. Experimentation
   Alt-J has developed a unique style over the years by experimenting with different genres and arrangements in their music. Try singing along to their tracks, and add your unique touch or sound.

In Conclusion

Alt-J-style singing is a mixture of falsetto, breathy tonality, and layered vocals, topped off with intricate harmonies. As you develop your singing skills, consider incorporating techniques such as warming up, expanding your vocal range, harmonizing, breath control, articulation, and experimentation. Additionally, Singing Carrots' Search, Pitch Training, Artists, Range Test, and Singing Course resources can also aid your quest to sing like Alt-J.