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!

Send me a note through the contact button above.

Credits

Languages

English

Reviews

Endorse James Sims

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.