Music Composer, Producer

Q: Tell us about your studio setup.

A: My basic setup is simple and effective. It includes Macbook Pro, Logic X, all Waves plugins, numerous rare instrumental and processing plugins, Tannoy Reveal 5A monitors, Danelectro U2 guitar, Melody JP bass '74, a set of effect pedals, plus I use old walkman-type tape recorders and Tascam 242 portastudio for specific effects and processing if needed. I also or invite other musicians if the job demands it. I have a long-established relationship with one of the best studios in Moscow, musicians and vocalists worldwide.

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

A: I've been creating songs and instrumental tracks for 20 years. I tried myself in numerous styles from garage rock and punk to electronica and orchestral music, I played bass and wrote tracks in a space rock orchestra Mooncake for almost 10 years. So when I start working I am not limited by style boundaries, my experience guides me through the whole process and in the end I come up with a track that actually stands out.

Q: What are you working on at the moment?

A: Currently, I am busy mixing the next 4-track EP for my band Olovo.

Q: What do you like most about your job?

A: I love the whole process of composing and arranging music, but the devil is in the detail. The moment you find the right arrangement or even the right sound or a hook is the best.

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

A: That it is a simple job that does not demand time, concentration and commitment.

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

A: A Danelectro guitar, a sound card, Shure SRH840 headphones, Macbook Pro and a 2500 watt solar power generator. I'd cope without a midi/USB keyboard since I'll use the laptop keyboard for composing.

Q: What do you bring to a song?

A: It really depends. My job is to figure out the hook for each song. Some track is supposed to be built over a solid beat, the other is based on a vocal melody, the third may have both the beat and catchy vocal melody. This applies to the arrangement as well. For some songs a minimalistic arrangement is enough, others need wide orchestration.

Q: What's your typical work process?

A: To begin with I have a thorough discussion with the client on what he wants exactly from the track. Then I create an arrangement. After that goes the final part that includes recording the instruments, vocals (if needed), mixing.

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

A: Among personalities, my TOP 3 includes Kevin Shields, Hans Zimmer and Max Richter. Among bands, the TOP 3 are GY!BE, Pink Floyd and My Bloody Valentine.

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

A: I compose and arrange tracks both instrumental ones and songs, arrange raw material into ready and solid tracks. Also, I provide mixing services, guitar and bass arrangements.

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

A: Enlia is a great singer and lyrics writer.

Q: Analog or digital and why?

A: The combination of both makes a perfect result. The exact proportion depends on the job.

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

A: The track will sound it is supposed to.

Q: What questions do you ask prospective clients?

A: I ask questions that help me to understand everything they want from the track, so there's no misunderstanding left.

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

A: Study the provider's portfolio and have a chat with him to make sure you are both on the same page.

Q: How would you describe your style?

A: I am thorough and I don't rush.

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

A: I'd like to make an dreamy electronic record with Kim and Kelly Deal. Their voices are perfect for such music.

Q: Can you share one music production tip?

A: Patience is the key. Take breaks once in a while when working on a track, don't try to finish everything in one session.

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

A: Indietronic, chillwave, shoegaze, dream pop, synthpop, ambient, chamber pop, new wave. I also like working with orchestration and hip hop beats.

Q: What's your strongest skill?

A: Making the track sound the way it is meant to.