David Fraelic

Mixing | Mastering | Producer

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2 Reviews
David Fraelic on SoundBetter

Let’s turn your music into something unforgettable! Hi, I'm David Fraelic and I specialize in mixing polished songs that resonate emotionally and stand out sonically. Whether it's the raw energy of rock or the polished clarity of pop, I’ll work closely with you to bring your vision to life. My passion is helping artists achieve their unique sound!

I'm a mix engineer, producer, multi-instrumentalist, and artist with over two decades of experience in the music industry. Based in Victoria, BC, my studio is where creativity meets precision, blending the warmth of analog gear with cutting-edge digital tools.

Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of working on projects that have achieved impressive results, including tracks with significant streaming milestones on platforms like Spotify and Apple Music. My work has also garnered radio airplay, gained recognition across various genres, and resonated with audiences worldwide.

My expertise spans mixing, mastering, songwriting and music production, as well as playing and performing guitar and bass across styles like Rock, Pop, Country, Metal, EDM, Hip-Hop, and beyond. Whether you're an emerging artist or an industry veteran, I focus on enhancing your unique sound and ensuring it stands out in today’s competitive music landscape.

Clients appreciate my collaborative approach and attention to detail—I prioritize your creative vision and guide the process with open communication. My setup includes premium gear from Neve, SSL, Universal Audio, and more, delivering professional, release-ready results every time.

Let’s bring your music to life and achieve something extraordinary together.

I'd love to hear about your project. Click the 'Contact' button above to get in touch.

2 Reviews

Endorse David Fraelic
  1. Review by Anthony Blake
    starstarstarstarstar
    check_circleVerified (Client)

    Excellent communication and a great musician to collaborate with

  2. Review by Johnathan V.
    starstarstarstarstar

    I've worked with David several times now and he always blows me away with his work. It doesn't matter how big or small the gig is he always gives you everything he's got. Very great communication and will be back for more. Thank you!!

Interview with David Fraelic

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

  2. A: One project I’m especially proud of was working with an indie rock band that aimed to capture the vintage warmth of ’70s rock while giving it a modern edge. My role was to mix and master their debut EP. The band had a clear vision but wasn’t sure how to bring it to life sonically. I started by collaborating closely with them to understand their influences and creative goals. I focused on crafting a powerful drum and bass relationship while shaping the guitars to retain that classic analog warmth. The vocals needed clarity and emotion, so I spent time refining the dynamics and EQ to make them shine. We also experimented with some creative reverb and delay effects to give certain sections a larger-than-life feel. The result was a polished and dynamic EP that not only exceeded the band’s expectations but also landed them on several curated playlists, helping them grow their audience significantly. It was incredibly rewarding to see their excitement and know I played a part in making their vision a reality.

  3. Q: What are you working on at the moment?

  4. A: Currently, I’m wrapping up a mixing and mastering session for a highly anticipated rock act. While I can’t reveal too much just yet, I’m thrilled for the world to hear it soon—it’s a project that truly pushes creative boundaries. Additionally, I’m collaborating with several promising up-and-coming artists to shape their sound for major streaming playlists and radio airplay. It’s an exhilarating time, as each project brings fresh challenges and opportunities to create something extraordinary.

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

  6. A: Yes, there are a few talented professionals on SoundBetter whom I’d confidently recommend to my clients. From session musicians and vocalists to arrangers, this platform is filled with highly skilled individuals who can elevate any project. I believe in building a team of experts to ensure the highest quality for your music, and I’d be happy to make recommendations based on your specific needs and goals. Collaboration is key, and I’m always excited to connect my clients with the best in the industry.

  7. Q: Analog or digital and why?

  8. A: Both analog and digital have their strengths, and I believe the best results come from using a hybrid approach. Analog gear adds warmth, depth, and character to a mix that’s hard to replicate digitally. It’s perfect for giving tracks a more organic and rich feel. On the other hand, digital tools provide precision, flexibility, and the ability to experiment with endless creative options. By combining the warmth and musicality of analog gear with the precision and efficiency of digital technology, I can tailor the workflow to the needs of each project. This allows me to achieve a sound that is both polished and emotionally impactful. It’s not about choosing one over the other—it’s about knowing when and how to use both to serve the music.

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

  10. A: My promise is to treat your music as if it were my own. I’ll collaborate closely with you, listen to your vision, and ensure the final result exceeds your expectations. If you’re not 100% satisfied, I offer unlimited revisions until we get it just right—and a money-back guarantee for your peace of mind.

  11. Q: What do you like most about your job?

  12. A: The best part of my job is helping artists bring their vision to life. There’s nothing more fulfilling than hearing an artist's excitement when they listen to their finished track and feel it represents their story and artistry perfectly.

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

  14. A: Q: How do I know you’re the right fit for my project? A: I offer a free consultation and am happy to review your track to provide feedback. I also offer unlimited revisions to ensure we get the results you want. Q: Can you work with any genre? A: Absolutely! While I specialize in rock, metal, pop, and country, I’ve worked on a wide variety of genres and adapted my approach to suit the unique needs of each project.

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

  16. A: Many people assume mixing and mastering is simply about increasing volume or adding effects, but it’s so much more than that. It’s a sophisticated art form that combines technical precision, creative intuition, and emotional storytelling. My role is to craft a sonic landscape that not only enhances the song’s narrative but also creates a visceral connection with listeners. A significant part of my process involves carefully automating and moving faders, sculpting dynamics, and balancing elements to guide the listener on an emotional journey that aligns perfectly with the artist's vision.

  17. Q: What questions do you ask prospective clients?

  18. A: When working with prospective clients, I aim to get a clear understanding of their vision and expectations. Some of the key questions I ask include: 1. What is your overall vision for this project? 2. Are there specific reference tracks or artists whose sound you admire? 3. What emotions or story are you trying to convey through this song? 4. Do you have any specific concerns or challenges with your current recordings or mix? 5. What are your expectations for the final product in terms of tone, energy, and style? 6. How involved would you like to be in the process? (e.g., frequent updates or a more hands-off approach) 7. Are there any elements or details that are especially important to you, such as a particular vocal effect or instrumental tone? 8. What is your deadline for this project? These questions help me tailor my approach to meet each client’s unique goals and ensure we’re aligned from the start. Communication is key to delivering a final product that exceeds expectations.

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

  20. A: Look for someone who understands your vision and is willing to collaborate with you throughout the process. Communication is key, so choose someone who listens to your input and offers constructive feedback. Also, ask for audio samples to ensure their work aligns with your style.

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

  22. A: If I were stranded on a desert island with only 5 pieces of gear, I’d have to choose wisely: 1. Universal Audio Apollo x8 – A reliable interface with incredible preamps and onboard DSP. It’s versatile enough to handle any recording or mixing task. 2. Neumann U87 Microphone – The ultimate all-rounder for capturing vocals and instruments with pristine clarity. 3. Fender Stratocaster – A guitar that’s not only iconic but also versatile, perfect for creating anything from clean melodies to gritty riffs. 4. Beyer Dynamic 990 Pros – They’d help me simulate studio environments, even if I’m stuck on a beach! 5. A laptop with Cubase Pro – My go-to DAW for creating, mixing, and mastering—it’s the heart of my workflow. With these tools, I’d have everything I need to stay creative and make music, even in the middle of nowhere!

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

  24. A: I started as a multi-instrumentalist and singer in a touring band, which gave me a deep understanding of the artistry behind music. Over the past 20 years, I’ve honed my skills as a producer and engineer, working on a wide range of projects and building a professional studio. This journey has allowed me to collaborate with incredible artists and develop a reputation for delivering high-quality results.

  25. Q: How would you describe your style?

  26. A: My style is all about blending technical precision with creative artistry. I focus on enhancing the unique character of each track while ensuring a clean, professional, and emotionally impactful sound. Whether it’s the raw energy of Rock, the polished edge of Pop, the grit of Metal, or the storytelling of Country, my approach is versatile and adaptive to the genre and artist’s vision. I strive to bring out the soul of a song while maintaining a sense of balance, clarity, and depth in every mix.

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

  28. A: I would love to work with artists like Bring Me The Horizon or Chris Cornell. Bring Me The Horizon combines raw energy with bold, unconventional production choices that make their music exhilarating and unpredictable—being part of that creative chaos would be an incredible experience. Chris Cornell, with his unparalleled vocal depth and ability to craft hauntingly emotive soundscapes, remains a timeless inspiration. Although he's no longer with us, his artistry continues to push boundaries and inspire countless musicians, including myself. Both represent innovation at its finest, and collaborating with visionaries like them would not only be an opportunity to contribute to extraordinary music but also to grow as an artist through their fearless approach to creativity.

  29. Q: Can you share one music production tip?

  30. A: Always start by focusing on the emotional core of the track. Technical perfection is important, but the way a song makes you feel is what truly resonates with listeners. Build your mix around the elements that convey that emotion, whether it’s the vocals, a lead instrument, or the groove.

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

  32. A: I usually work on genres like Rock, Metal, Pop, and Country, where I specialize in creating powerful, polished mixes with dynamic low-end, clear and impactful vocals, and a cohesive sound. I enjoy collaborating with artists who bring energy and emotion to their music, and I strive to elevate their tracks to industry standards. While these genres are my focus, I’m always open to exploring other styles and bringing a fresh perspective to different types of projects.

  33. Q: What's your strongest skill?

  34. A: My strongest skill is my ability to bring clarity and cohesion to a mix while enhancing its emotional impact. I have a meticulous ear for detail, which allows me to balance dynamics, fine-tune volume automation, and ensure each element in the mix serves the song's overall vision. Whether it's crafting unique tones, perfecting vocal clarity, or creating a tight low-end foundation, my focus is always on delivering a professional, polished sound that resonates with both the artist and the audience.

  35. Q: What do you bring to a song?

  36. A: I bring clarity, energy, and balance to every song I work on. My goal is to take the artist's vision and elevate it with professional mixing, mastering, and a deep understanding of musical dynamics. Whether it’s crafting a punchy low-end for a rock anthem or creating space and shimmer for pop vocals, I ensure every element shines while maintaining the emotional core of the track.

  37. Q: What's your typical work process?

  38. A: Every project starts with understanding the artist's vision. I begin by listening to the raw tracks and any reference material the client provides. We’ll discuss the overall vibe, emotional intent, and key sonic elements they want to highlight. This ensures that I’m aligned with their creative goals from the start. Once I have a clear direction, I organize and prepare the session, cleaning up the tracks, aligning performances, and handling any necessary edits like time alignment, comping, or vocal tuning. From there, I dive into the mix, focusing first on creating a strong foundation—tightening the low end, balancing the dynamics, and sculpting the overall tonal balance. As the mix develops, I use automation to bring life and movement to the track, ensuring every section builds and evolves emotionally. I carefully tailor effects like reverb, delay, and compression to enhance the mood and give the mix depth and dimension. Throughout the process, I provide updates to the client, sharing drafts for feedback and revisions. Collaboration is key, so I encourage open communication to make sure we’re achieving their vision. Once the mix is complete and approved, I master the track to ensure it meets industry standards for loudness, clarity, and consistency across all playback systems. My goal is to deliver a polished, professional product that not only meets but exceeds expectations.

  39. Q: Tell us about your studio setup.

  40. A: My studio is a professionally treated, acoustically optimized space designed to deliver exceptional sound quality. At the heart of my setup is Cubase Pro, which I pair with a hybrid workflow of analog and digital gear. My analog arsenal includes industry-standard equipment like SSL, Neve, Universal Audio, and Empirical Labs, which add warmth, character, and depth to every mix. For digital precision, I rely on top-tier plugins from iZotope, Slate Digital, Waves, and FabFilter, among others. My monitoring system features Dynaudio Acoustics speakers for accuracy, ensuring that mixes translate beautifully across all playback systems. I also have high-quality headphones from Beyerdynamic for detailed critical listening. Whether it’s time-aligning drums, perfecting vocal tuning, or sculpting the low-end, my setup allows me to bring out the very best in every track. From capturing subtle nuances to creating bold sonic landscapes, my studio is equipped to handle projects of any complexity, always focused on delivering a professional, polished sound.

  41. Q: What are you working on at the moment?

  42. A: Currently, I’m wrapping up a mixing and mastering session for a highly anticipated rock act. While I can’t reveal too much just yet, I’m thrilled for the world to hear it soon—it’s a project that truly pushes creative boundaries. Additionally, I’m collaborating with several promising up-and-coming artists to shape their sound for major streaming playlists and radio airplay. It’s an exhilarating time, as each project brings fresh challenges and opportunities to create something extraordinary.

  43. Q: Analog or digital and why?

  44. A: Both analog and digital have their strengths, and I believe the best results come from using a hybrid approach. Analog gear adds warmth, depth, and character to a mix that’s hard to replicate digitally. It’s perfect for giving tracks a more organic and rich feel. On the other hand, digital tools provide precision, flexibility, and the ability to experiment with endless creative options. By combining the warmth and musicality of analog gear with the precision and efficiency of digital technology, I can tailor the workflow to the needs of each project. This allows me to achieve a sound that is both polished and emotionally impactful. It’s not about choosing one over the other—it’s about knowing when and how to use both to serve the music.

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

  46. A: My promise is to treat your music as if it were my own. I’ll collaborate closely with you, listen to your vision, and ensure the final result exceeds your expectations. If you’re not 100% satisfied, I offer unlimited revisions until we get it just right—and a money-back guarantee for your peace of mind.

  47. Q: What do you like most about your job?

  48. A: The best part of my job is helping artists bring their vision to life. There’s nothing more fulfilling than hearing an artist's excitement when they listen to their finished track and feel it represents their story and artistry perfectly.

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

  50. A: Q: How do I know you’re the right fit for my project? A: I offer a free consultation and am happy to review your track to provide feedback. I also offer unlimited revisions to ensure we get the results you want. Q: Can you work with any genre? A: Absolutely! While I specialize in rock, metal, pop, and country, I’ve worked on a wide variety of genres and adapted my approach to suit the unique needs of each project.

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

  52. A: Many people assume mixing and mastering is simply about increasing volume or adding effects, but it’s so much more than that. It’s a sophisticated art form that combines technical precision, creative intuition, and emotional storytelling. My role is to craft a sonic landscape that not only enhances the song’s narrative but also creates a visceral connection with listeners. A significant part of my process involves carefully automating and moving faders, sculpting dynamics, and balancing elements to guide the listener on an emotional journey that aligns perfectly with the artist's vision.

  53. Q: What questions do you ask prospective clients?

  54. A: When working with prospective clients, I aim to get a clear understanding of their vision and expectations. Some of the key questions I ask include: 1. What is your overall vision for this project? 2. Are there specific reference tracks or artists whose sound you admire? 3. What emotions or story are you trying to convey through this song? 4. Do you have any specific concerns or challenges with your current recordings or mix? 5. What are your expectations for the final product in terms of tone, energy, and style? 6. How involved would you like to be in the process? (e.g., frequent updates or a more hands-off approach) 7. Are there any elements or details that are especially important to you, such as a particular vocal effect or instrumental tone? 8. What is your deadline for this project? These questions help me tailor my approach to meet each client’s unique goals and ensure we’re aligned from the start. Communication is key to delivering a final product that exceeds expectations.

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

  56. A: Look for someone who understands your vision and is willing to collaborate with you throughout the process. Communication is key, so choose someone who listens to your input and offers constructive feedback. Also, ask for audio samples to ensure their work aligns with your style.

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

  58. A: If I were stranded on a desert island with only 5 pieces of gear, I’d have to choose wisely: 1. Universal Audio Apollo x8 – A reliable interface with incredible preamps and onboard DSP. It’s versatile enough to handle any recording or mixing task. 2. Neumann U87 Microphone – The ultimate all-rounder for capturing vocals and instruments with pristine clarity. 3. Fender Stratocaster – A guitar that’s not only iconic but also versatile, perfect for creating anything from clean melodies to gritty riffs. 4. Beyer Dynamic 990 Pros – They’d help me simulate studio environments, even if I’m stuck on a beach! 5. A laptop with Cubase Pro – My go-to DAW for creating, mixing, and mastering—it’s the heart of my workflow. With these tools, I’d have everything I need to stay creative and make music, even in the middle of nowhere!

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

  60. A: I started as a multi-instrumentalist and singer in a touring band, which gave me a deep understanding of the artistry behind music. Over the past 20 years, I’ve honed my skills as a producer and engineer, working on a wide range of projects and building a professional studio. This journey has allowed me to collaborate with incredible artists and develop a reputation for delivering high-quality results.

  61. Q: How would you describe your style?

  62. A: My style is all about blending technical precision with creative artistry. I focus on enhancing the unique character of each track while ensuring a clean, professional, and emotionally impactful sound. Whether it’s the raw energy of Rock, the polished edge of Pop, the grit of Metal, or the storytelling of Country, my approach is versatile and adaptive to the genre and artist’s vision. I strive to bring out the soul of a song while maintaining a sense of balance, clarity, and depth in every mix.

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

  64. A: I would love to work with artists like Bring Me The Horizon or Chris Cornell. Bring Me The Horizon combines raw energy with bold, unconventional production choices that make their music exhilarating and unpredictable—being part of that creative chaos would be an incredible experience. Chris Cornell, with his unparalleled vocal depth and ability to craft hauntingly emotive soundscapes, remains a timeless inspiration. Although he's no longer with us, his artistry continues to push boundaries and inspire countless musicians, including myself. Both represent innovation at its finest, and collaborating with visionaries like them would not only be an opportunity to contribute to extraordinary music but also to grow as an artist through their fearless approach to creativity.

  65. Q: Can you share one music production tip?

  66. A: Always start by focusing on the emotional core of the track. Technical perfection is important, but the way a song makes you feel is what truly resonates with listeners. Build your mix around the elements that convey that emotion, whether it’s the vocals, a lead instrument, or the groove.

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

  68. A: I usually work on genres like Rock, Metal, Pop, and Country, where I specialize in creating powerful, polished mixes with dynamic low-end, clear and impactful vocals, and a cohesive sound. I enjoy collaborating with artists who bring energy and emotion to their music, and I strive to elevate their tracks to industry standards. While these genres are my focus, I’m always open to exploring other styles and bringing a fresh perspective to different types of projects.

  69. Q: What's your strongest skill?

  70. A: My strongest skill is my ability to bring clarity and cohesion to a mix while enhancing its emotional impact. I have a meticulous ear for detail, which allows me to balance dynamics, fine-tune volume automation, and ensure each element in the mix serves the song's overall vision. Whether it's crafting unique tones, perfecting vocal clarity, or creating a tight low-end foundation, my focus is always on delivering a professional, polished sound that resonates with both the artist and the audience.

  71. Q: What do you bring to a song?

  72. A: I bring clarity, energy, and balance to every song I work on. My goal is to take the artist's vision and elevate it with professional mixing, mastering, and a deep understanding of musical dynamics. Whether it’s crafting a punchy low-end for a rock anthem or creating space and shimmer for pop vocals, I ensure every element shines while maintaining the emotional core of the track.

  73. Q: What's your typical work process?

  74. A: Every project starts with understanding the artist's vision. I begin by listening to the raw tracks and any reference material the client provides. We’ll discuss the overall vibe, emotional intent, and key sonic elements they want to highlight. This ensures that I’m aligned with their creative goals from the start. Once I have a clear direction, I organize and prepare the session, cleaning up the tracks, aligning performances, and handling any necessary edits like time alignment, comping, or vocal tuning. From there, I dive into the mix, focusing first on creating a strong foundation—tightening the low end, balancing the dynamics, and sculpting the overall tonal balance. As the mix develops, I use automation to bring life and movement to the track, ensuring every section builds and evolves emotionally. I carefully tailor effects like reverb, delay, and compression to enhance the mood and give the mix depth and dimension. Throughout the process, I provide updates to the client, sharing drafts for feedback and revisions. Collaboration is key, so I encourage open communication to make sure we’re achieving their vision. Once the mix is complete and approved, I master the track to ensure it meets industry standards for loudness, clarity, and consistency across all playback systems. My goal is to deliver a polished, professional product that not only meets but exceeds expectations.

  75. Q: Tell us about your studio setup.

  76. A: My studio is a professionally treated, acoustically optimized space designed to deliver exceptional sound quality. At the heart of my setup is Cubase Pro, which I pair with a hybrid workflow of analog and digital gear. My analog arsenal includes industry-standard equipment like SSL, Neve, Universal Audio, and Empirical Labs, which add warmth, character, and depth to every mix. For digital precision, I rely on top-tier plugins from iZotope, Slate Digital, Waves, and FabFilter, among others. My monitoring system features Dynaudio Acoustics speakers for accuracy, ensuring that mixes translate beautifully across all playback systems. I also have high-quality headphones from Beyerdynamic for detailed critical listening. Whether it’s time-aligning drums, perfecting vocal tuning, or sculpting the low-end, my setup allows me to bring out the very best in every track. From capturing subtle nuances to creating bold sonic landscapes, my studio is equipped to handle projects of any complexity, always focused on delivering a professional, polished sound.

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

  78. A: I’m deeply inspired by producers like Rick Rubin, who has an unparalleled talent for capturing the raw essence of an artist’s sound, and Dave Bendeth, whose innovative mixing techniques and signature massive drum sounds have set industry standards. Musicians such as Dave Grohl and John Mayer inspire me with their relentless passion for creating authentic, impactful music that resonates deeply with audiences. I also draw inspiration from bands like Bring Me The Horizon and Sevendust, whose ability to incorporate inventive musical elements into their mixes pushes genre boundaries and redefines what’s possible in modern music.

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

  80. A: The most common work I do is mixing and mastering tracks to industry-leading standards, ensuring each song reaches its full potential. This process includes enhancing vocal clarity, tightening the low-end for a solid foundation, and meticulously balancing dynamics to create a polished, cohesive soundscape. I dedicate extensive time to fine-tuning volume automation for every section, ensuring that each moment delivers the right emotional impact. I specialize in precision tasks like vocal tuning and time alignment, ensuring a seamless and professional finish. I also excel in drum editing and comping, transforming multiple takes into a cohesive, powerful performance. Crafting unique tones for instruments like bass, guitar, and synth elements is another area where I bring creativity and technical expertise. Every detail is poured over with care, making sure the final product resonates with both the artist’s vision and the listener’s experience.

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GenresSounds Like
  • Bring Me The Horizon
  • Nickelback
  • Papa Roach
Gear Highlights
  • Neve
  • 1176
  • Aurora
  • Distressor
  • API
  • Universal Audio
  • SSL
  • Audient
  • Warm Audio
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