ABOUT

Upon my return to NZ in 2016, Capgun Studios had an existing client lined up to record and mix a 10 track album. We started tracking almost immediately and I was asked to play keyboards/synth as the band did not yet have a keys player. After tracking was completed, I was asked to mix the album as I had the most experience out of all the engineers and also due to the fact that the other engineer working for Capgun was the drummer for the band; he was simply already too invested in the project. This was important as I provided a fresh set of ears as a recording artist, producer and mix engineer, having not heard or written any parts for the songs before recording began. I was given a month to mix the album and did so well within that time frame, by putting in lots of hours regardless of the fact I was not being paid for the project.

As the mix engineer and producer, it was up to me to make critical decisions when it came to each song, while keeping in mind the clients vision and taste to create a cohesive listening experience. Do we really need that many microphones on the drum kit? Should the bass guitar sit above or below the kick drum in this track? I even rearranged one of the tracks on the album, as I felt it suited a 6/8 feel, rather than a 4/4 feel.

Having completed the mixes, I accompanied the mastering engineer as he mastered the album, giving my input when I felt it necessary. The album is yet to be released, but a single that is not featured on the album has been released, along with a music video. I am extremely proud of this album and it proved to be a valuable learning experience for me, having never mixed a full-length album before this.