EZX Post-Metal — Free Download

Purpose and Concept

EZX Post-Metal is an expansion pack for Toontrack’s EZdrummer 3, designed to deliver big, dark, earthy, and mercilessly vibrant drums that define the post-metal genre. Sampled by Thomas Hedlund of Cult of Luna, the sounds were captured at the Ocean Sound Recording studio on the island of Giske, Norway, known for its dramatic coastal backdrop.

The pack includes four complete drum kits and two additional configurations recorded with snare wires off, providing a range of tonal options. Each kit has a unique character, from the vintage warmth of Ludwig and Gretsch models to the modern punch of Yamaha. The collection also features extra kit pieces and a set of big, dark cymbals, offering flexibility for crafting atmospheric and heavy tracks.

Key Capabilities

The expansion includes four distinct drum kits: the Lighthouse Kit (Ludwig Super Classic), the Pathfinder Kit (Yamaha Maple Custom Absolute), the Mariner Kit (Ludwig Classic Maple), and the Island Kit (Gretsch ’70s Stop Sign Badge). Beyond these, two additional configurations were recorded with snare wires off, providing unconventional textures. Extra instruments like alternate kicks, snares, hihat, crashes, and a ride expand the sonic possibilities.

A wide range of presets offers tones from round and dark to saturated and aggressive, with varying amounts of effects and leveling. This allows users to quickly dial in a mix-ready sound without deep programming. The included MIDI performances, played by Thomas Hedlund, cover foundational grooves, fills, and parts specifically tailored for post-metal. These are ideal for jumpstarting songwriting or adding authentic feel to arrangements.

Workflow and Integration

Designed for use with EZdrummer 3, EZX Post-Metal integrates seamlessly into the host environment. Users can choose from the four kits or the snare-wire-off configurations, then apply presets to shape the sound. The MIDI library provides a starting point for drum tracks, which can be dragged and dropped into your DAW for further editing. This workflow suits producers looking to build atmospheric, slow-burning metal tracks.

The pack’s presets cover the full dynamic spectrum, from subtle and dark to hard-hitting, making it easy to match the vibe of a song. The extra kit pieces allow for custom setups, while the dark cymbals add a brooding character. For composers and sound designers, the raw, organic quality of the recordings offers a departure from overly polished drum sounds, ideal for creating immersive, textural mixes.

Practical Applications

EZX Post-Metal shines in genres like post-metal, atmospheric metal, and slow, organic rock. Its dynamic range supports ebb-and-flow arrangements, where verses are soft and sparse and choruses explode with intensity. The snare-wire-off configurations and dark cymbals are perfect for creating haunting, spacious sections. Producers can use the provided MIDI to quickly sketch ideas, then refine with the preset effects to achieve a professional mix-ready sound.

The pack is also suitable for cinematic and ambient projects that require earthy, impactful drums. The sampled kits offer vintage character that can stand out in a modern mix. Whether you’re writing a full song or designing a trailer score, the versatility of these drums supports creative exploration.

Key features

• Four complete drum kits plus two snare-wire-off configurations
• Sampled by Thomas Hedlund of Cult of Luna
• Includes extra kit pieces and dark cymbals
• Wide range of mix-ready presets
• Collection of genre-specific MIDI grooves and fills
• Recorded at Ocean Sound Recording studio in Norway
• Designed for EZdrummer 3

Best for

This EZX is best for producers and musicians creating post-metal, atmospheric metal, or organic rock tracks that require dark, raw, and dynamic drum sounds. Its vintage kits and snare-wire-off options also suit cinematic or ambient compositions where texture and contrast are essential.