Recording.

My goal is to take the best possible audio snapshot of your material. This could be or live or multilayered in my own or affiliate studios.

• I take pride in ensuring the project is being captured as best and true as possible in relation to the genre or style together with the availability of optimal equipment and sonic spaces.

• I have recorded solo artists through to bands, groups and ensembles of all varieties, including full orchestras.

• Recordings may range from demo or showreel purposes, through to commercial Single, EP & Album releases.

• I have worked in different domains, ie. digital and analogue tape previously, however I prefer to record to ProTools primarily, along with Logic Pro.

• I maintain advanced knowledge and fast operation of Pro Tools, along with knowledge extending to third-party software and other DAW programs.

Producing.

As Producer, I can bring an objective view to the artist’s material, offering musical & sonic direction & perspective.

• Often the role of an Engineer and Producer are combined or can be split between personnel. I am comfortable producing on a session whilst Engineering or solely producing.

• In the Producer’s role, I have and may be called upon to potentially offer insight into the following:

  Musical elements:
  • Tempo, arrangement, key, instrumental choice, feel & groove

  Vocal and lyrical elements:
  • Lyrical tweaks, melodies, harmony suggestions, vocal performance

  Sonic context and characteristics:
  • Establish or fine-tune Instrument sounds
  • Suggest appropriate effects or additional sound sources

  Overall Picture:
  • Context and feel for the release
  • Song or song version choice
  • Organise and manage the recording process
  • Criticise and advise on material

Mixing.

I aim to add punch, clarity and interest to each instrument while blending them to create a cohesive and better whole.

• I apply intricate attention to detail, while treating individual instrument tracks and sources with specific processing and effects in order to give each part it’s own space and play its role in the mix.

• Mixing usually takes place after all or most parts are recorded, depending on the project. The amount of time required can vary from song-to-song or project-to-project depending on various factors:

  • Track count, instrument types, editing and various other elements can alter the amount of time required for a completed mix, along with the intention of the project - demo vs. commercial release?

• I provide Mixing services for recordings I engineer or produce, as well as recordings provided to me.

• Discussion of your project is encouraged for an estimate on time and costs.

Pre-production.

Pre-production is all about preparation for achieving the best result from the main process.

• It is common to arrange Pre-Production time with a Producer, which occurs well before recording. This is often beneficial for the artist’s material and preparation and can help save time and money in the studio during recording sessions.

• In my experience, Pre-Production has always been beneficial toward the end result. It can assist to streamline the flow of the actual recording, identify and iron out any potential issues ahead of time and reduce stress and make for a more enjoyable production. Imagine walking in on day one of the proper recording with equipment and sessions already prepared and having song arrangements, tempos and keys all but worked out, not to mention the rapport of all involved already established.

• Each project is different and should be treated as such. Pre-Production sessions can take place in the form of:
  • Listening to and dissecting existing demo material
  • Recording demo material
  • Rehearsal sessions
  • Live show evaluation

Mastering.

In mastering, I provide enhancement to the overall mixes and cohesion between songs.

• While “mixing” focusses on all of the specifics of individual instruments and sources within a song mix, “mastering” is a broader view, paying attention to overall levels, tonal balance and sonic quality, applying a 'final polish’, ready for release across different platforms and helping the material to compete with other mastered audio and translate across a wide variety of playback systems.

• I typically apply mastering processing to a single stereo mix file, however I also offer “stems processing” for a more in-depth option.

• I provide Mastering services for completed mixes provided to me or recordings and mixes I have worked on.

DDP Authoring.

The “Masters” created for the client/ artist/ label require all of the correct associated information.

• This is also taken care of in the (final) mastering stage, in the form of creating a DDP File (Disc Description Protocol), which contains all of the embedded track information and order as well as timing and gaps for playback.

• This type of file has become the new standard as a master format and delivery method accepted by duplication/ replication plants, replacing older formats such as a physical master reel or disc (vinyl record or CD).

  • The advantage is that it cannot be altered between Mastering and the resultant pressing, whereas a 'physical burnt disc' master may include errors or become marked/ scratched etc. before being copied.

Live & other services.

I am approachable and can also offer advice based on a wealth of experience in a range of other areas surrounding the music industry.

• I have mixed for a range of live acts as a freelance sound engineer and in-house technician.

• I have provided theoretical tuition and practical training, offered advice and consultation in relation to studio and live sound application, songwriting, professional and consumer A/V installations as well as other aspects of the entertainment industry.

• My passion for music and entertainment lends itself to a holistic approach in assisting the needs of other artists.