Mixer Guitarist Producer

Q: Tell us about your studio setup.

A: I've got a nice little overdub/mix studio attached to my home here in Nashville. I'm running a focusrite interface and a couple class A Preamps to go into pro tools. I've got a bunch of microphones and amps here as well but I'm usually recording guitars/bass with my Fractal Audio Axe FX 2. Sounds great and saves me so much time! I've got my system loaded with a bunch of the best plugins to insure that your mix will sound amazing. If I need to track a full kit I am able to here but would rather book out a bigger room here in town.

Q: Tell us about a project you worked on you are especially proud of and why. What was your role?

A: The latest thing I'm proud of is working with this band named "Stryke Lightning" who are based here in Nashville. I just produced and mixed their first single and we really tried to just get the parts right and do minimal grid editing. It pushed everyone to their limits and of course when it came out everyone was super stoked! We are now working on a 4 song follow up EP which will be coming out soon.

Q: What are you working on at the moment?

A: Lately I've been doing a bunch of sync licensing music for TV and film, as well as mixing a full album for a heavier rock band based out of LA.

Q: Is there anyone on SoundBetter you know and would recommend to your clients?

A: Marc Frigo is a great mix engineer and a buddy of mine from here in Nashville!

Q: Analog or digital and why?

A: Yes.

Q: What's your 'promise' to your clients?

A: No one has ever worked with me and not had a smile on their face upon completion of the product!

Q: What do you like most about your job?

A: Making art come to life.

Q: What questions do customers most commonly ask you? What's your answer?

A: It's usually pertaining to turnaround times and file delivery. I usually use either we transfer or dropbox and try to have things done within 72 hours.

Q: What's the biggest misconception about what you do?

A: Autotune won't fix poor vocal technique.

Q: What questions do you ask prospective clients?

A: I usually ask them what they want the record to sound like and to provide examples. Also the usual budget and end goal kind of questions. I always try to help my clients music business- wise even after the project is complete.

Q: What advice do you have for a customer looking to hire a provider like you?

A: Be as prepared as possible but don't be afraid to ask questions and give me any possible idea you have as to make your vision of the product a reality.

Q: If you were on a desert island and could take just 5 pieces of gear, what would they be?

A: Computer with my usual plugins, Neve 1073, Distressor, Shure SM7B, and a Fender Strat.

Q: What was your career path? How long have you been doing this?

A: I started playing gigs back in western Pennsylvania and came to Nashville to pursue a career in audio production. I attended SAE Institute and started working at 16th edge studios on music row. When that closed down I worked with the head engineer/producer at a couple other studios before branching out on my own. I now have my own spot as well as doing work at other studios. When I'm not in the studio I'm usually on the road playing guitar. At this point I've been playing guitar for probably around 20 years and doing audio for 10.

Q: How would you describe your style?

A: Precise and heavy hitting.

Q: Which artist would you like to work with and why?

A: The person reading this. Every new artist I work with is always exciting!

Q: Can you share one music production tip?

A: Never try to "fix it in the mix".

Q: What type of music do you usually work on?

A: Rock and Pop, been doing a bit more country lately as well!

Q: What's your strongest skill?

A: Playing complex guitar patterns and making explosive mixes are probably my top 2 skills.

Q: What do you bring to a song?

A: Through my knowledge of music theory and advanced mixing techniques I can add something you never thought your song could have.

Q: What's your typical work process?

A: It really depends on the project. But usually I'm talking with the client about their vision and how we can achieve it, then I go from there. It splits in different ways at that point for every client.

Q: What other musicians or music production professionals inspire you?

A: in the studio world I'm a big fan of Chris Lorde Alge. Probably some of the biggest sounding and most timeless mixes. I'm also into Joey Sturgis on the production front. I love the impact and precision his mixes have. As for musicians I'm gonna have to go with Steve Vai as my biggest influence on guitar.

Q: Describe the most common type of work you do for your clients.

A: I'm usually helping artists take a basic song idea and bring it to life. For example an artist will send me a basic scratch track and I'll build up the drums, guitars, bass, sound design/synth programming, and then mixing and mastering the final product.