Musician - Artist - Producer

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

A: I have a few I can think of, but at the top of my list is the first dangerous robot record "Navigating Dystopia". I was deeply involved as a producer, and it definitely pushed my creative boundaries. Seeing and hearing the end result, not to mention on a stellar vinyl (Mastered @ Bernie Grundman, pressed @ Third Man), definitely made it an immensely gratifying experience.

Q: What are you working on at the moment?

A: Currently, I'm immersed in two exciting projects. Firstly, I'm crafting my latest solo album, which delves into themes of mindfulness and spirituality. Secondly, I'm passionately involved in the creation of the new Dangerous Robot record, where we're exploring a bit more of our spectrum. Both projects are allowing me to push boundaries creatively and explore new sonic territories.

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

A: Absolutely, I've had the pleasure of connecting with Dave Crum on SoundBetter, and his dedication to sonic excellence is truly commendable. His expertise in [mention specific area, e.g., mixing/mastering/production] and his commitment to delivering top-notch results make him a standout professional I'd confidently recommend to my clients.

Q: Analog or digital and why?

A: I embrace the best of both worlds: the warmth and character of analog paired with the precision and flexibility of digital. Analog equipment offers a unique sonic richness and depth, while digital tools grant unparalleled versatility and convenience. I believe in leveraging the strengths of each to craft a sound that's both nostalgic and cutting-edge, blending the classic feel of analog with the limitless possibilities of digital to create a truly distinctive sonic experience.

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

A: My promise to my clients is to be their dedicated partner throughout the entire musical journey. I vow to bring passion, expertise, and an unwavering commitment to translating their vision into reality. With an attentive ear and a collaborative approach, I promise to deliver music that not only meets but exceeds their expectations, ensuring a result that resonates deeply with both their audience and their hearts.

Q: What do you like most about your job?

A: What I cherish most about my work is the ability to bring someone's musical vision to life. There's an immense satisfaction in seeing the evolution from an idea to a tangible, emotive piece of art. The joy of crafting music that resonates deeply with people and evokes emotions is truly fulfilling. Additionally, the collaborative nature of this work, where every project is a unique journey, keeps me inspired and excited about what each day brings.

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

A: Customers often inquire about the creative process and how it aligns with their vision. They often seek details about the workflow, revisions, and the timeline for completing their project. My approach involves deeply understanding their aspirations, ensuring regular communication, and providing clarity on every step. I aim to collaborate closely to capture their essence while crafting the best musical expression possible.

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

A: One common misconception is that music production is purely technical or only about pressing buttons. In reality, it's a delicate blend of technical expertise and creative intuition. Crafting music involves understanding emotions, storytelling, and connecting with the audience on a profound level. It's not just about the tools; it's about using those tools to evoke feelings and create an experience that resonates deeply with listeners.

Q: What questions do you ask prospective clients?

A: Project Scope: What type of project are you envisioning? What's the scope or scale of the project? Timeline: When do you need the project completed? Are there any specific deadlines or milestones? Expectations: What are your expectations for the final outcome? Are there any specific references or examples you have in mind? Previous Experience: Have you worked with a music producer/engineer before? What was your experience like? Collaboration: How involved would you like to be in the creative process? Do you prefer regular updates or specific collaboration tools? Budget: Do you have a budget in mind for this project? Technical Requirements: Are there any technical specifications or preferences for equipment, formats, or platforms? Revision Process: How many rounds of revisions do you anticipate or prefer? Communication: What are your preferred communication channels and frequency for updates?

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

A: When seeking a music professional, look beyond technical expertise. Find someone who understands your vision, embraces collaboration, and values communication. Look for a partner who not only shares your musical passion but also prioritizes your project's uniqueness. It's more than skill; it's the ability to understand and amplify your artistic voice while ensuring a smooth and enjoyable creative journey.

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

A: MacBook Pro, Apollo Interface, Novation SL61 controller, Focal Headphones, and my Les Paul.

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

A: My passion for music traces back to my upbringing—immersed in melodies from my dad's guitar strums and my mom's piano tunes. Recording became a natural fascination from early childhood. Hours were spent in my room experimenting with cassettes and reel-to-reel tapes, sculpting sounds. In '97, our first family computer opened the doors to DAW recording, merging tape and digital technologies. This marked the beginning of my journey into music production, an odyssey that's grown with me over the years.

Q: How would you describe your style?

A: My style is a fusion of diverse influences, blending pop and rock with an experimental edge. It's characterized by a dedication to intricate sonic textures, emotive melodies, and a commitment to crafting immersive, boundary-defying soundscapes.

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

A: I've always admired the innovative approach of artists like Todd Rundgren, whose boundary-pushing sound and commitment to pushing creative limits resonate deeply with my own passion for experimentation. Collaborating with them would be an incredible opportunity to merge our unique styles and craft something truly groundbreaking.

Q: Can you share one music production tip?

A: Certainly! One key tip I often follow is to keep experimenting. Don't be afraid to explore unconventional techniques or sounds. Sometimes the most unique and captivating elements come from unexpected places.

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

A: I specialize in a diverse range of music genres, from contemporary pop and rock to electronic and hip-hop. My flexibility allows me to adapt to various musical styles, ensuring each project receives the tailored attention it deserves.

Q: What's your strongest skill?

A: My strongest skill lies in the art of production. It's the ability to intricately weave together melodies, harmonies, rhythms, and textures into a cohesive sonic tapestry that resonates deeply with listeners. This skill allows me to capture the essence of an artist's vision and bring it to life, adding layers of depth and emotion that elevate the music to its fullest potential.

Q: What do you bring to a song?

A: In crafting music, I bring a blend of technical prowess and artistic intuition. My goal is to elevate the essence of a song by infusing it with rich sonic textures, nuanced dynamics, and a captivating emotional depth. Whether it's through my expertise in production, precise engineering, or soulful instrumentation, I aim to breathe life into each composition, ensuring it resonates authentically with the listener and captures the intended vibe and message envisioned by the artist.

Q: What's your typical work process?

A: My typical work process revolves around a client-centric approach aimed at understanding their artistic vision and requirements. I start with an in-depth consultation to grasp their aspirations, musical style, and desired outcome. Then, it's about meticulous planning, ensuring every step aligns with their goals. I emphasize clear communication and collaboration throughout the project, from pre-production to the final mix/master, ensuring that the client feels involved and satisfied every step of the way.

Q: Tell us about your studio setup.

A: My studio setup is tailored to deliver professional-grade productions across genres. I utilize industry-standard software and a versatile range of hardware to ensure top-notch quality. Equipped with state-of-the-art recording gear, including a UA Apollo, SSL control surface, Focal monitors, and various pieces of outboard gear, I create an immersive sonic environment conducive to creativity and precision. The studio is acoustically treated to capture every nuance of sound, enabling me to deliver exceptional mixing, mastering, and production services.

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

A: I draw inspiration from an eclectic mix of musicians and music production pioneers. Artists like Todd Rundgren and Rick Rubin, with their versatile production styles and ability to shape timeless hits across genres, have always been influential. Additionally, the innovative approaches of modern producers like Danger Mouse and Sylvia Massy resonate with me, showcasing groundbreaking techniques that continually push the boundaries of music production. Their creativity and commitment to sonic excellence inspire me to explore new avenues and elevate my craft.

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

A: My primary work involves providing comprehensive music production services tailored to my clients' needs. This typically includes producing, arranging, and engineering music across various genres. I specialize in creating dynamic compositions, fine-tuning recordings, and delivering polished mixes and masters that resonate with listeners. My goal is to bring out the best in each project, ensuring it aligns perfectly with the client's artistic vision.