Multi-layered Productions

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

A: I recently produced a number of songs for French artist, Soumeya Sigler. Her method of writing with loops made me re-think the way I build productions and has overall been an interesting, fun experience.

Q: How would you describe your style?

A: My effective use of layering creates unique productions without over filling arrangements.

Q: What are you working on at the moment?

A: I am producing and mixing new material for a UK singer-songwriter with a rich, layered acoustic sound similar to Dodie and Cavetown. Really fun stuff!

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

A: Production became a career prospect in my first year at the London music institute, ICMP where I studied songwriting. In my last two years of study, I specialised in production, being coached by Paul Stanborough (Kylie Minogue, Janet Jackson, Tina Turner) who instilled in me the power of creativity. His techniques set me on the journey of discovery which has led me to where I am today. In the years since I have learned how to leave my stamp on everything I work on whilst respecting and highlighting the creative identity of artists.

Q: What's your typical work process?

A: I will usually begin by requesting a demo of the song(s) if available. Depending on the artist this can include key production elements or just a simple acoustic performance and a list of at least two reference tracks to give me an idea of what the artist wants their work to sound like. From there I will experiment with various ideas, often instinctively gravitating towards certain instruments and effects and get back to the artist with a first draft within a few days. After receiving feedback, I will continue working on the song(s), adjusting them appropriately and this process will continue until the artist is happy and confident with the result, often in under three revisions.

Q: Tell us about your studio setup.

A: I have a quaint, un-presuming setup consisting of a laptop (running Logic Pro X), PreSonus speakers, Røde microphone, Roland A-50, and various acoustic and electric guitars, basses and amps. I also use Native Instruments Komplete and Kontact.

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

A: Production-wise, I admire the simplicity and "liveness" of Tristan Ivemy's work with Frank Turner. When it comes to mixing, I recognise the delicate, insightful touch Spike Stent has in his mixes, particularly on Keane's Hopes And Fears and Ed Sheeran's Divide.

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

A: Paul Stanborough (writer-producer), Steve Turner (producer, string arranger)

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

A: Bring some well-thought-out references for your tracks. Have a clear artistic identity and be able to sum this up in a sentence or two. This makes a producer's work much quicker and will result in better productions for you.

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

A: Easy! Acoustic guitar, shaker, cajon, uke bass and a friend to jam with.

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

A: I take demos of vocals and basic instrumentation from artists and develop them into full productions, adding various creative elements to bring songs to life.

Q: What do you like most about your job?

A: I love being creative! It's incredibly satisfying to take songs from demos to full, polished productions that artists can be truly proud of.

Q: Analog or digital and why?

A: Digital. It's so accessible and intuitive these days, and you can achieve polished productions, with minimal cost.

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

A: I promise to keep the clients artistic identity at the forefront of everything I do.

Q: What questions do you ask prospective clients?

A: -How much they can record from home, whether they need to hire a studio or if the whole thing can be done at home over email. -What the ultimate vision for the project is (this helps me gain perspective on the scope of the project) -What references do they have for their style. -Where can I listen to their music? This helps me to understand their sonic identity.

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

A: Brian Fallon! His blend of uptempo heartland rock and folk is exciting and inspiring. I'd love to make my mark on the world of folk rock.

Q: Can you share one music production tip?

A: Found sounds! Why stop at a kick drum sample? With a DIY percussion mallet, a guitar case, a blanket for padding and a good microphone, you can create your own bespoke samples. Creativity has no limits!

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

A: Singer/ songwriter, folk-pop, acoustic

Q: What do you bring to a song?

A: As a songwriter, I will create further interest in productions by implementing melodic and rhythmic hooks to draw listeners in and keep them engaged. I will also add a subtle, yet effective atmosphere to productions.