As a music production tutor Ive noticed loudness is an often misunderstood concept.

Loudness relates to:

- The frequencies present in a signal (we are not equally sensitive to all frequencies).

See Fletcher-Munson Curve

- The dynamic nature of the signal (how compressed it is).

Loudness can be measured with an LUFS meter.

You can use this FREE VST: Youlean Loudness Meter 2 

(You're looking for the integrated value).

This tells you exactly how loud each part of your song is and allows you to shape the energy transition from the break, to the build to the climax sections by manipulating the master input gain and compression amount.

Turning down the input gain on the master channel will relate to a less compressed / more dynamic mix that allows the transients more room to breathe. You can assure that the drop / climax sections turns out more energetic and powerful than the build by turning up the input gain and creating a higher LUFS value. This will of course create changes to the relationship between transient and sustain elements in the affected section.

If you'd like to learn more about loudness and dynamic control please consider scheduling a one-one tutoring session via the Academy tab.