Studio Record/Mixer/Producer

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

A: Producing, recording, mixing, mastering an original patriotic track from a local artist. I was able to implement many of his creative ideas; I played several of the instruments on the track. The client was very satisfied, and we're in pre-production for another track.

Q: What are you working on at the moment?

A: Just finished a project with a musical family doing a cover of "Daddy Sang Bass". (In pre-production for a couple more cover songs from various family members). Released an original patriotic track from a local artist, Dustin James. (In Pre-production for another track for his EP.)

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

A: Yoad Nevo - One of the best I know!

Q: Analog or digital and why?

A: Working Digitally (with a couple of outboard effects). Digital recording and effects are awesome now. Many of the pros are working in the box exclusively as it gives them great freedom and easy recalls. It also allows me to bring my studio to your venue/space to capture live performances.

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

A: Bring me your best effort and I'll bring mine to help you achieve your musical vision.

Q: What do you like most about your job?

A: I like to build things! Being able to help artists to build and shape their musical vision into a special experience for their listeners.

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

A: Cost, availability, the standard questions; I share my pricing and availability. I'm happy to answer any question clients may have.

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

A: Auto-tune and editing won't make you radio-ready. A great recording is the sum of talent, preparation, and careful, thoughtful studio work. That allows us the most freedom to work together and be creative, to sprinkle the sweeteners into the mix.

Q: What questions do you ask prospective clients?

A: I want to find out enough that I get a clear picture of their vision for the project, their budget, and the "sound" they're going for.

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

A: Be prepared to get a great recording: Be sure the song is ready to record. Work out the key of the song, changes, structure, instrumentation, etc. and practice ahead of time. Then we can capture more; we can get beyond just the notes, so that we can record the emotions that will take your listeners on a musical journey.

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

A: Coles 4038, AEA Ribbon Pre, REAPER DAW, PreSonus Interface, and a Laptop. But where would I plug them in?

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

A: I've been multi-track recording since the early 1980's. I have both practical experience, (Hyde Street Studios, Los Medanos College Studio), and classroom experience in producing, recording, and mixing a multitude of different genres of music. Graduating from a Sound Reinforcement program back in the mid '80's. Semi-professionally performing in a variety of instrumental and voice venues for many years has given me experience on both sides of the glass.

Q: How would you describe your style?

A: I've always been a bit eclectic. But I have a special place for MOR Rock. Playing and recording Rock, Pop, Jazz, Rap, Country, Bluegrass, and Americana. I love the sound of real instruments.

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

A: I most enjoy working with artists who are excited about their musical journey. I enjoy helping them to develop their sound and further their careers.

Q: Can you share one music production tip?

A: Be sure to record the best sound on recording day. Don't wait to fix it in the mix.

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

A: Alternative, Pop, Country, Christian Contemporary, Americana, Rock, and Bluegrass.

Q: What's your strongest skill?

A: Tenacity - the ability to stick with a project and to work through issues that may arise.

Q: What do you bring to a song?

A: Both practical experience and classroom experience in producing, recording, and mixing a multitude of different genres of music. Years of recording experience, has helped me to develop and tune my ears to be able to hear the nuances that can make your track stand out. Semi-professionally performing in a variety of instrumental and voice venues for many years has given me experience on both sides of the glass.

Q: What's your typical work process?

A: Meeting with the client to get a clear picture of their vision/needs. Pre-production, as needed. Careful, deliberate recording. Mixing to the client's taste - (2 additional revisions included). Optional mastering. Delivery and celebration!

Q: Tell us about your studio setup.

A: Delta Vista Studio is a home-based studio. I work primarily "in-the-box", with just a couple of "outboard" effects for flavoring.

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

A: Most.

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

A: Production/Recording/Editing/Mixing for singer/songwriters.