Grammy-winning mixer/engineer

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

A: I recently got to contribute two Atmos mixes to the recently released Joni Mitchell live album from the Monterey Folk Fest.

Q: What questions do you ask prospective clients?

A: What is your song about? How do you want people to feel when they listen to it? What are you loving or not loving about the rough mix- be specific.

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

A: If you are looking to hire me, that's excellent! I'd advise you to ensure your production and arrangement are completely finished before moving on to the mixing/mastering stage. Check that all of your edits are good, and you are happy with all of the sounds and parts. Vocal tuning should be completed.

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

A: A water filtration system, tools to construct shelter, a satellite radio to put out an SOS call, waterproof matches to make a fire, and a compass.

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

A: I've been at this since 2006. I began my career in NYC at Quad Studios, before joining Busta Rhymes as his studio engineer. After a year on the road with Busta I began a 7-year mentorship with Michael Brauer at Quad and Electric Lady Studios. There, I worked with artists including Coldplay, John Mayer, Kanye West, Grizzly Bear, Shakira, Hole, and many others. In 2014, I moved to LA to work with John Hill on music for Charlie XCX, Santigold, BØRNS, Gwen Stefani, Adele, Florence and the Machine, and others.

Q: How would you describe your style?

A: Gritty with depth and emotion

Q: Can you share one music production tip?

A: Try not to overcrowd it with too many parts in the same frequency ranges.

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

A: Indie pop, pop, acoustic, singer-songwriter, rock

Q: What's your strongest skill?

A: Listening : ) On a technical level, hearing how elements of the mix balance and interact with each other. On an emotional level, understanding the intent and feelings behind the song and production. On a good vibes level, communicating well with the artist or producer about what they are hearing and how I can shape my vision to match theirs.

Q: What do you bring to a song?

A: I was a musician long before I was an engineer, so I bring musicality and emotion to whatever I'm mixing. My goal is always to get into the mindset of the artist and what emotions they are trying to convey. I'll focus on highlighting elements of the production that can create the most emotionally impactful experience for the listener.

Q: What's your typical work process?

A: I start by listening to the rough mix and determining what already feels great to me, and where I can improve things. I'll also ideally have notes from the artist or producer of their feelings about the rough mix. This helps guide the direction of the mix to something they are looking for. I'll then mix the song, and send off for notes!

Q: Tell us about your studio setup.

A: First thing is a well-treated acoustically great room. On the gear side, I work with a hybrid mix setup, including a Neve 5057 Mixer, Avalon 747sp stereo tube compressor, RME ADI-2 Pro FS R, Avid MTRX Studio, and various outboard effects. Monitoring on ATC SCM25A speakers and HEDD Audio Heddphone One headphones.

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

A: Mixing and engineering day to day!