My last three projects ‘Mojave Dust’ , 'Kora Blues' and 'Tin Church' have been recorded in my private studio. It is an analogue stereo set-up with no overdub facilities.
I did this with a view to honing down my material so it could be performed and recorded with just one or two microphones direct to tape. Once down there was no further tweaking or editing, the job was done there and then. Recorded for posterity forever in one fell swoop. However this is far from easy. To achieve a successful take, with perfect entry vocal and guitar balanced correctly, as well as in tune, good solo and outro with no missed notes or half sung lyrics is a tall order. But the feeling of knowing that there’s one ‘in the can’ is one to savour. Also the economics of making solo ‘stereo records’ are very wallet friendly. We then just need them pressed up and sold to distributors or at gigs (there’s another story)
My gear is nothing special apart from the fact that its simple, accurate, easy to operate and quick to use. I use either a pair of Tannoy Ribbon microphone or a Rode NTV valve microphone. As well as retaining my original Revox B77, I have now progressed to an Akai DPS 12 digital workstation. It is a wonderful machine and being an analogue enthusiast I can honestly say it’s the best digital purchase I have ever made.
I rent my services and my studio in a ‘production package’ for singer songwriters or instrumentalists. I like to work closely with the client prior to recording to try and get the best out of a performance, checking the lyrical and musical content as we go. Once happy with the material we then look at the recording process, correct microphone and placement and off we go.
My clients in the past have used my facilities for making small demo discs that they can then use to get work and generate interest. I can provide a nice four-song package with a CD in a wallet with good artwork containing all contact details. Please use the details on the contact page if you have any queries or if you would like to book the studio. |
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