Mastering the Ethereal Synth-Pop Vocals
"Half Mast" by Empire of the Sun is a standout track from the 2008 album Walking on a Dream. Sung by Luke Steele, the song embodies a dreamy, psychedelic aesthetic that requires a specific vocal approach. It’s not about power belting; it’s about control, tone, and stylistic placement.
To sing this well, you need to be comfortable navigating the "passaggio" (the break between chest and head voice). Steele drifts between registers seamlessly, often favoring a nasal, forward placement that cuts through the synthesizer-heavy mix. Let's break down the technique.
AI Coach Tip: Watch Your Diction
Steele often rounds his vowels and softens his consonants to maintain the legato line. Don't over-enunciate the 't' and 'k' sounds, or you will break the ethereal flow of the melody.
Phase 1: The Verses (Conversational Tone)
The verses ("Honey I'm not doing so well...") sit in a lower, more comfortable range (roughly C#3 to A3). The challenge here isn't pitch, but timbre. You want a sound that is present but relaxed.
The Trap: Many singers go too "breathy" in the verses, running out of air before the end of the phrase. Keep your vocal cords adducted (closed) but keep the volume low to mezzo-piano.
Phase 2: The Chorus Lift
When the chorus hits, the melody lifts significantly. You need to access your head voice or a light mix. The repetitive nature of the hook requires stamina. The notes here float around the F#4 and G#4 mark, with harmonies extending higher.
- Resonance: Aim for a "masky" placement—feel the vibration in your nose and cheekbones. This mimics Steele's distinct nasal quality.
- Dynamics: Do not push for loud volume. The power comes from the synthesizer layers, not vocal force. Keep it light and airy.
Phase 3: The Falsetto Peaks
Throughout the bridge and ad-libs, the vocals jump to F#5. This requires a pure falsetto. Ensure you drop your jaw and keep the soft palate raised to create space. If you feel tightness in your throat, you are likely trying to pull your chest voice up too high.
Frequently Asked Questions
The lead vocal melody hits sustained notes around G#4, but falsetto ad-libs and harmonies reach up to an F#5.
Luke uses a lot of "twang" and nasal resonance combined with breathy releases. Try smiling slightly while singing to brighten the tone and lift the soft palate.
Yes. The verses are very accessible for Baritones. For the chorus, you can use falsetto if a mixed belt feels too high. Use the Singing Coach AI app to transpose the key down if needed.
