James Sims on SoundBetter

I'm a composer, producer and multi-instrumentalist who specializes in creating bespoke music for different media forms in a variety of genres and production styles. From film-makers on scores and sound design to recording artists with albums and singles. I love unique sounds and being experimental with musical textures that can elevate a project.

I'm an American musician with a cozy studio based in the United Kingdom. I'm drawn to folk, blues and dark neo-classical vibes, but I also produce and write for many indie-rock bands and solo artists. I'm a multi-instrumentalist who's first love was guitar, but I've since branched out to piano, banjo, mandolin and violin.

Recently I created the sonic branding for the global software company Ideagen in addition to composing for their docu-series 'Deep Roots', about the Nottingham Forest football club. I also recently completed the sound design, foley and the musical score for the short film 'Fernando' by Sam Milletti.

Contact me for for a chat through the green button above--I'd love to hear your idea!

SONG PRODUCTION
Includes arrangement, production, recording of live and programmed instruments, edits, tuning and mixing.

FILM COMPOSING + SOUND DESIGN
From small media projects to feature films, I'd love to help bring your visuals to life with sound.

DIALOGUE EDITING + VOCAL TUNING
Need the audio for your film, song or podcast cleaned up and edited. I use Izotope RX and other tools to help you get a clean sound.

SONGWRITING
I can help you write your next tune from an idea to a classic.

Any other services you're interested in but don't see listed, feel free to reach out. I'd love to chat about your project!

Click the 'Contact' above to get in touch. Looking forward to hearing from you.

Credits

Languages

English

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Interview with James Sims

Q: Analog or digital and why?
A: I use a mixture of both. When time is a factor I'd happily virtual instrument and plugins--but if the project allows, I love using analog gear and instruments. I believe great music requires a human touch and there's nothing that makes me feel more creative than tinkering with my hands and creating happy mistakes. In a world of AI, I try to make music that feels as human as possible.
Q: What's your strongest skill?
A: I believe my strongest skill is my variety in creativity. I started my career as a guitarist for rock bands and neo-soul acts but recently I've been working on Celtic-folk productions and writing for a wide spectrum of genres. I listen to and love all types of music--that's been a huge help with the ideas and sounds I bring to any project.
Q: What's your typical work process?
A: I usually start with a sketch on guitar or piano and fill in the blanks until I have a solid demo of what I'd like the piece to sound like. From there, it's about finding different textures and sounds that complement it and build an original piece.
Q: What other musicians or music production professionals inspire you?
A: I'm a big fan of Dan Auerbach and Easy Eye Sounds, they're creating modern classics with that warm, analog sound I try to capture. Also Fleetwood Mac's 'Rumors' album is always my go to for referencing what a track should sound like.
Q: Describe the most common type of work you do for your clients.
A: It's a mix between music production for solo artist and production work for film and video.