Pop / Rock / Alternative Mixer

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

A: One project I’m especially proud of is Paul McCartney’s Egypt Station. I had the privilege of being the engineer on the album, working alongside an incredible team. The project was a dream come true, as it involved collaborating with one of the most iconic musicians of all time. What made this project so special to me was not only the opportunity to work with Paul, but also the level of creativity and attention to detail that went into each track. The album’s blend of classic McCartney elements with fresh, modern sounds created a unique sonic landscape. As the engineer, my role was to capture those moments and bring them to life in the mix. The experience was a highlight of my career and a project I will always be proud of.

Q: What are you working on at the moment?

A: At the moment, I’m working on a few exciting projects, including mixing for some new albums and singles from a variety of artists across different genres. I’m also collaborating with a few producers on some creative, experimental tracks. There’s always something in the works, and I’m constantly adapting to the unique needs of each project. It’s an exciting time, and I’m looking forward to bringing some fresh, polished mixes to life!

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

A: Yes, I highly recommend a few talented professionals on SoundBetter: Darrell Thorp – A Grammy-winning engineer with an incredible track record, including work with artists like Radiohead, Beck, and Paul McCartney. His experience and technical expertise are unmatched. Brendan Dekora – A highly skilled producer, mixer, and engineer who brings a lot of creative insight to any project. His ability to adapt to different genres and sounds is impressive. Dave Way – A fantastic engineer and producer with a unique approach to mixing and production. He has worked with major artists like Fiona Apple, Sheryl Crow, and Macy Gray, and his mixes always stand out. All three are top-tier professionals, and I’d trust them to bring any project to the highest level.

Q: Analog or digital and why?

A: For me, it’s both analog and digital, depending on the context. I love the warmth, depth, and character that analog gear can add to a track—there’s something special about the imperfections and subtle harmonics that analog provides. However, digital technology allows for incredible precision, flexibility, and endless possibilities in editing and processing. It’s the best of both worlds. I use the right tool for the job, often combining the best of analog warmth with digital clarity and control to achieve the perfect sound. The goal is always to serve the song and create the best mix possible.

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

A: My promise to my clients is that I will always approach each project with the utmost care, attention to detail, and dedication. I will work tirelessly to bring your vision to life, ensuring that every element of your track is given the attention it deserves. I will communicate openly, stay flexible to your feedback, and deliver a final mix that not only meets your expectations but also enhances the emotional impact of your music. My goal is to create a collaborative, stress-free experience that results in a polished, professional sound you’re proud of.

Q: What do you like most about your job?

A: What I love most about my job is the opportunity to help bring an artist's vision to life. There's something incredibly rewarding about taking raw tracks and turning them into a polished mix that enhances the emotion and message of the song. Every project is different, and the creative process keeps me engaged and inspired. I also enjoy the constant learning—there's always something new to experiment with, whether it’s a technique, a new piece of gear, or a fresh approach to a mix. Ultimately, being able to collaborate with artists and contribute to the music in a meaningful way is what makes it all so fulfilling.

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

A: Some of the most common questions customers ask me are: "What do you need from me to get started?" My answer: I typically need the stems or multitracks of the song, as well as any references or direction on the vibe and style you're aiming for. The more details you can provide about the sound and feel you want, the better I can tailor the mix. "How long will the mixing process take?" My answer: The time it takes depends on the complexity of the song and the number of elements to be mixed. For a standard track, it typically takes about 2-4 days, but I always aim to meet deadlines and will work with you to establish a timeline that fits your needs. "Can you make my track sound like [reference artist/album]?" My answer: While I can definitely take inspiration from reference tracks and artists, every song is unique, and I focus on enhancing its individual character while incorporating elements of your reference. It’s about finding the best balance for your track, rather than copying another sound exactly. "Do you also master the track?" My answer: Yes, I can provide mastering as part of the mixing process if needed. However, I always recommend having a dedicated mastering engineer for the final step to ensure the track is properly optimized for all formats and platforms. These questions are a great way for me to ensure we’re aligned on the goals and expectations for the project.

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

A: The biggest misconception about what I do is that mixing is just about turning knobs and adding effects. While it may seem simple, mixing is a highly detailed and creative process that requires a deep understanding of both technical and musical elements. It’s about balancing the elements of a song, ensuring every part is heard clearly, and enhancing the emotional impact of the track without losing the integrity of the artist's vision. It's not just about making things sound loud or polished—it's about finding the right space for each element and making sure the mix serves the song.

Q: What questions do you ask prospective clients?

A: When working with prospective clients, I usually ask the following questions to get a clear understanding of the project: What’s the overall vision or vibe you’re aiming for with this project? This helps me understand the mood, style, and direction they want for their music. Do you have any reference tracks or examples of sounds you like? Reference tracks give me a clearer sense of what the client is hearing in their head and helps guide the process. What is the intended release format (album, single, etc.) and timeline? Knowing deadlines and the type of release ensures the mix is finished on time and suited to its purpose. Are there any specific elements you want to highlight in the mix? Whether it's vocals, drums, or instruments, understanding what to emphasize helps shape the final mix. Do you have any preferences in terms of sound or technical details (analog vs. digital, reverb, EQ, etc.)? This allows me to tailor the mix process to match the client’s preferences and past work.

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

A: My advice for a customer looking to hire a provider like me would be to prioritize clear communication and a shared vision for the project. It's essential to ensure that we're on the same page about the sound you're aiming for and the goals of your project. Be open to collaboration—my role is to help translate your ideas into the best possible mix, and having a clear direction will make the process smoother and more rewarding. Trust in the expertise I bring to the table, but don't hesitate to share your thoughts, preferences, and references. The more information I have, the better I can serve your vision.

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

A: Is there power on this desert island? or do I need to bring a solar panel array? 1. A Macbook Pro with Pro Tools Ultimate and all of my Plugins. 2. A high-quality audio interface like a Universal Audio Apollo. 3. A pair of Dynaudio BM15a Speakers & cables. 4. A pair of headphones that I know and trust. Sony 7506, they're bright but very revealing, or Audio Technica ATH-M50x's 5. An Overstayer Saturator NT-02A - There's nothing in the digital domain that reacts quite like this little box.

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

A: started as a musician turned audio engineer at a young age. I began with 4-track tape machines, then progressed to working in my high school production studio with a Mac G4 and a Digi 001. I studied Recording Arts at Loyola Marymount University, and after graduation, I worked as a touring FOH engineer for six years, working in studios whenever I wasn’t on the road. I eventually quit touring and began working full time as a freelance producer, mixer, and engineer.

Q: How would you describe your style?

A: I’d describe my style as versatile and detail-oriented. I focus on creating clear, dynamic mixes that bring out the emotional core of a song. Whether it’s adding warmth with analog gear or ensuring every element has its space in a digital mix, I aim for a balance that feels both polished and authentic to the artist’s vision. My goal is to enhance the song’s impact while keeping its integrity intact.

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

A: I’d love to work on a collaboration between Beck and Tame Impala. Both have unique approaches—Beck’s genre-blending creativity and Tame Impala’s psychedelic sound—so combining their styles would make for an exciting mix. I’d enjoy the challenge of blending their distinctive sounds into a cohesive, dynamic mix that showcases both artists’ creativity.

Q: Can you share one music production tip?

A: One key tip is to focus on EQ and panning to create space in your mix. Carve out frequencies for each instrument so that they don’t fight for space, and use panning to place each element in a way that feels natural and immersive. This will give your mix clarity and allow every part of the song to be heard without clutter.

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

A: I primarily work on alternative, rock, and pop music, but I’ve also had the opportunity to mix across a variety of genres. My experience with these styles has helped me develop a versatile mixing approach, making sure each track retains its unique identity while sounding polished and radio-ready.

Q: What's your strongest skill?

A: My strongest skill is my ability to create mixes that are both clear and dynamic. I excel at finding the right balance for each element, whether it’s a subtle detail or a prominent part of the track, and ensuring it complements the overall sound. I also have a keen ear for dynamics, which allows me to make tracks feel energetic and impactful.

Q: What do you bring to a song?

A: I bring a unique combination of technical expertise and musical intuition to each mix. I take great care in ensuring every element in the song serves the overall message and sound, while also maintaining a cohesive flow. Whether it’s subtle tweaks or bold sonic decisions, my goal is to elevate the song in a way that stays true to the artist's vision.

Q: What's your typical work process?

A: My process begins with a conversation about the song's vision. Once I understand the direction, I break the song into its individual parts, balancing each element and making adjustments to the EQ, dynamics, and effects to ensure the mix is clear and dynamic. I then refine the mix until everything is working cohesively, while ensuring the emotional essence of the song is preserved.

Q: Tell us about your studio setup.

A: My mix room was designed by George Augspurger. It’s a space designed to give me full control over my work while keeping the atmosphere relaxed. The studio has a blend of analog and digital tools, from high-end monitors and a wide variety of outboard gear to the latest digital plugins and DAWs. This setup allows me to craft detailed mixes with both warmth and clarity.

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

A: I’m inspired by professionals who have mastered the art of mixing and production. Greg Kurstin, with his ability to bring out the emotional essence of a track, and Nigel Godrich’s meticulous attention to detail in his mixes are major influences. Beck's work also inspires me because of his ability to blend genres and create unique, immersive sonic experiences and Brian Eno for his experimental approach to production. I also admire the innovative work of artists like Kendrick Lamar and Tame Impala, who continually redefine genre expectations.

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

A: I specialize in mixing, working closely with artists and producers to bring their tracks to life with clarity, energy, and balance. I help shape the final sound of a song, ensuring that every element is in its right place and the overall vision of the project is fully realized. Whether it’s fine-tuning individual elements or creating an immersive sonic experience, my main focus is on delivering high-quality mixes that enhance the emotional impact of the music.