Producer/Player/Writer

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

A: Keyboard, AKG C414, Computer, UAD Apollo, and my guitar.

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

A: I'm usually in this pop/indie world that we've carved out here in the 2010s, and will continue to explore that in the 2020s. Even if my music has a bit of an Americana or Urban/R&B slant, I'm always committed to making something that sounds like it can exist in this century.

Q: What's your typical work process?

A: Depends on the project - I can do everything from an in studio session with the client, and build a track myself with as little as a guitar/vocal... I pride myself on being flexible, I can cater our process to your needs and comfortability. Generally, it only takes me about 1-2 hours to build and produce a track if I'm by myself, the rest of the time will be used for fine tuning, post-production, etc. I like to work quickly, but don't like to rush. So, always important to do enough pre-production so that once we hit record, we're totally prepared, even if we're improvising.

Q: Tell us about your studio setup.

A: Full range of dynamic and condenser mics (notably Slate VMR, Neumann TLM 103, AKG C414, SM7-B). I've got the ability to mic a full drum set as well – I record at least 10 channels into a UAD Apollo and Focusrite Clarett, with preamps and compressors to support. Instruments: 10 guitars and basses ranging from acoustic to 12 string, full piano and organs, as well as a few analog and digital synths.

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

A: There are too many to name. My favorite producers are guys like Dan Auerbach, Greg Kurstin, Butch Walker, Dave Cobb, and T-Bone Burnett. Biggest influences overall are the likes of The Beatles, Bruce Springsteen, Prince, The Eagles, Billy Joel, and Jimi Hendrix. My band is highly influenced by David Bowie, Blondie, Joy Division, and Billy Idol. These days, my biggest guys and gals are Jack Antonoff (Bleachers, Fun, Taylor Swift), Dan Wilson (Dixie Chicks, Adele, Chris Stapleton), Dave Cobb (Jason Isbell, Sturgill Simpson, Lake Street Dive, Chris Stapleton), Ryan Adams, Julia Michaels, and St. Vincent.

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

A: The Foxies have a single called "Be Afraid Boy." I'm so excited about proud of this track. I produced it, helped write the tune, played all the instruments, and sang the BGVs. It's a girl power anthem - a unique one, we're excited for the song to come out and connect with our audiences. Charmed, on The CW, was kind enough to put it in an episode of television. That was a huge placement for us!

Q: What are you working on at the moment?

A: Working on new music! The Foxies have music coming out that we're super excited about, I'm working on a solo project, and as always, working on new music for various other artists. Last year, in addition to the band stuff, I wrote some tracks for The Made in the Born, toured with and produced some live tracks for Ruston Kelly, and did a lot of producing. Can't wait to share the new music we've been working on.

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

A: Beck or Jack Antonoff - these guys are genius writers, singers, performers, and producers. I can't imagine a step in the process where they lack in ability, so by working with them I'd be able to collaborate, but also learn so much about the process.

Q: Can you share one music production tip?

A: Great mixing is simply great arranging. If a song is arranged and produced properly, the mixing process won't have to hide anything.

Q: How would you describe your style?

A: Loose...I like to be available to my artists and clients anytime/any place/anyhow. Here's what I mean. There are no dealbreakers for the way that I work. Certainly some options cost more money/time than others, but I don't like to work ONE specific way each time, that's boring. Music is like life, and life isn't boring. There's plenty of ups and downs. Whether we're recording in a studio, in my house, outside, or in an airplane, there's something special about capturing a specific atmosphere. And I like to be on my toes in different atmospheres.

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

A: The work has a wide range, but generally I make records. Whether I'm making a demo, a score for a web series, or an original master of a tune (I've had at least one of each in the last week), I'm always recording, performing the instruments and mixing the music myself for a solid, cohesive sound and mix.

Q: What do you bring to a song?

A: My best instrument is my ear - I'm a writer and producer mostly, but I am first and foremost a FAN of music. I pride myself on the ability to listen to music from a consumer perspective and produce that way. Instead of overloading songs with so much information, bells & whistles, and musical chops, I always want to serve the song. That's all I care about. It starts with a great song, and it ends with serving that song.