When I set out to create the sound of Laser Hot Hits, a new DAB+ station in Ireland, the goal wasn’t just to make it sound good—I wanted it to sound like Laser. That meant designing a bold, memorable audio brand rooted in heritage but fully modernized for today’s digital radio landscape.
Laser Hot Hits is one of the few independently owned stations on DAB+ in Ireland, and that independence opened the door to something rare in radio: full creative freedom.
A Unique Collaboration
What made this project truly special was how the station approached audio production from the very beginning. Rather than treating imaging as a last-minute layer, the team embedded me—the audio branding producer—deeply into the creative process from day one. I wasn’t just handed a list of VO lines to cut—I was part of shaping the identity, energy, and tone of the station.
That level of trust and collaboration is rare, and it had a massive impact. With the freedom to experiment, take risks, and refine every sonic detail, the end result was something tighter, more dynamic, and far more in tune with the station’s personality than a typical top-down production process could have achieved.
The Challenge: Classic Identity, Modern Punch
The original Laser stations had a distinct energy—fast, rebellious, and alive. I didn’t want to simply copy that vibe with retro effects or nostalgia for nostalgia’s sake. Instead, I set out to capture the attitude and drive of Laser in a way that would still cut through on modern platforms, particularly DAB+, where clarity and presence are key.
Crafting a Sonic Identity
The audio branding was built from the ground up with intention:
Dry and semi-dry sweepers for fast transitions that keep the pace without cluttering the mix.
FX and textures that nod to the Laser past without sounding dated—warm, analog-inspired touches combined with modern polish.
Voiceover performance that’s charismatic and human—engaging without being overdone, with the kind of tone that connects instantly.
Imaging rotation designed to hit often enough to reinforce brand identity, but spaced out to keep things feeling fresh.
Imaging That Supports the Music
Laser Hot Hits spans high-energy hits from the ’60s to the ’90s, so the imaging needed to be versatile enough to glide from soul to synthpop without losing momentum. This meant every sweeper and ID had to be meticulously mixed and EQ’d—sitting in the right space, never overpowering the music, but always adding energy.
It’s a careful dance between sound design and musical flow—and with full creative control, I was able to make every cue and transition count.
The Result: A Station That Sounds Like It Means It
Thanks to the unique level of producer involvement and creative trust, Laser Hot Hits doesn’t just play music—it moves. It has a sonic identity that’s confident, energized, and unmistakably its own.
It doesn’t sound like templated radio. It sounds like a real station with purpose, personality, and pride.
I’m excited to announce my latest collaboration with AudioSweets—the ASX Summer 2025 Bundle is here, and it’s bigger than ever.
Hundreds of fresh elements, including: 🔥 Branded Intros 🔥 Artist IDs 🔥 High-impact Sweepers 🔥 Utility FX & Beds … and much more!
Denzil Lacey is an Audio Producer, Sound Designer and Composer from Dublin, Ireland. He currently works with clients across the world in creating world-class and instantly recognisable Sonic Branding.