In this episode of Working Class Audio, recorded live at AES 2024 in New York, Christal Jerez shares her career journey from Los Angeles to the UK. She discusses her experiences in live and studio sound, her move to the UK for a PhD, and the challenges of balancing motherhood with freelance work. Christal has worked with artists such as Lil Kim, Malik Moses, Al-Doms, and Timi O. In This Episode, We Discuss: Move to the UK: Christal relocated to earn a PhD for the Andrew Scheps Music Production Scholarship, focused on immersive audio, supported by her family. Immersive Audio: Passion for 3D sound and binaural audio, working with psychoacoustic experts at NYU. Early Inspirations: Grew up in LA, influenced by family gatherings and VH1 documentaries. Education Path: Studied audio production in university, learned hands-on through radio station work recording live bluegrass music. Career Growth: Mentored by Serge Tsai at Platinum Sound, rising from assistant to freelance engineer. Focused on client relationships and studio professionalism. Challenges as a Woman in Audio: Faced bias and underrepresentation in the industry. Emphasized importance of mentorship and resilience. Balancing Work & Motherhood: Struggled to balance freelance work with being a mother, setting boundaries to manage family and career. Matt’s Rant: AES 2024 Debrief Links and Show Notes: Christal's Sonic Lab AES 2025 in Long Beach Credits: Guest: Christal Jerez Host: Matt Boudreau Engineer: Matt Boudreau Producer: Matt Boudreau Editing: Anne-Marie Pleau WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell

In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt Boudreau chats with veteran producer and engineer Joel Jaffe, founder of Studio D Recording. Joel reflects on his 40-year journey running a renowned Bay Area studio, working with legendary artists like Faith No More and Huey Lewis, and perfecting live room recording techniques. He also shares insights on overcoming the challenges of studio life, the evolving music industry, and his decision to step away from day-to-day operations, or as Matt puts it, “getting out of the chair.” In This Episode, We Discuss: Challenges of running a studio in the Bay Area Building and managing Studio D Recording Recording techniques for live rooms and handling isolation Working with iconic artists like Faith No More, Huey Lewis, and Soundgarden The impact of streaming and the changing music industry Balancing a 40-year career with family life Lessons learned from mentors and iconic engineers Advice for aspiring audio engineers and producers Shifting from studio ownership to freelance work Matt’s Rant: Revisiting Putting Yourself Out There Links and Show Notes: Studio D Recording Joel Jaffe on Wikipedia Credits: Guest: Joel Jaffe Host: Matt Boudreau Engineer: Matt Boudreau Producer: Matt Boudreau Editing: Anne-Marie Pleau WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell

In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt Boudreau talks with Grammy-nominated recording engineer and educator Dr. Mary Mazurek about her work in classical music recording and her approach to teaching and mentoring. In This Episode, We Discuss: Grammy-nominated projects Challenges of recording classical music Microphone techniques for live performances Managing acoustics in different environments Mentoring young engineers Practical learning in audio Evolution of audio technology Moving to Canada Summers in Chicago Matt’s Rant: The most important thing is what comes out of the speakers! Links and Show Notes: Dr. Mary Mazurek's Faculty Profile Mary Mazurek's previous WCA episode #253 Credits: Guest: Dr. Mary Mazurek Host: Matt Boudreau Engineer: Matt Boudreau Producer: Matt Boudreau Editing: Anne-Marie Pleau WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell

In this episode of Working Class Audio, we welcome back Engineer/Producer Gabriel Shepard, who first appeared on WCA #011. Now, 500 episodes later, Gabriel returns to share more from his journey. Gabriel's impressive client list includes Cake, The Kronos Quartet, Bassnectar, Raphael Saadiq, and The Residents. In This Episode, We Discuss: 25th Street Recording Building Client Trust Creative Collaboration Crafting Signature Sound Navigating Industry Changes Freelance Persistence Audio Gear Insights Mixing Strategies Studio Workflow Client Communication Recording Challenges Evolving Sound Trends Learning from Other Producers Earning Fans of Your Work Matt's Rant: Covid! Links and Show Notes Gabriel's Site 25th Street Recording Studio Original WCA #011 with Gabriel WCA #073 with John Schimpf WCA #249 with Jeff Kolhede WCA #005 with John Cuniberti WCA #290 with Joe Chiccarelli Credits Guest: Gabriel Shepard Host: Matt Boudreau Engineer: Matt Boudreau Producer: Matt Boudreau Editing: Anne-Marie Pleau WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell Announcer: Chuck Smith

In this episode of Working Class Audio, Steve Lack shares his extensive background in audio post-production and podcasting. Steve reflects on his time working with Warner Brothers Discovery and his contributions to iconic shows like Seinfeld. With experience at NPR, VPM, Al Jazeera, and HBO, Steve now operates remotely from Richmond, Virginia. He discusses the flexibility of podcasting and how his journey from network television to podcasting has shaped his approach to building lasting client relationships. In This Episode, We Discuss: Freelancing Journey Shifts Early Adoption Of Pro Tools Discovery Channel Experience Remote Podcast Production Transition From Drumming To Film Composition Midlife Career Pivot Freedom In Podcasting Networking And Relationships Working From A Sailboat Overcoming Corporate Mergers Embracing Technological Changes Matt's Rant: Learning to Swim First Links and Show Notes Steve's Site Acon DeReverberate Accentize Plugins Credits Guest: Steve Lack Host: Matt Boudreau Engineer: Matt Boudreau Producer: Matt Boudreau Editing: Anne-Marie Pleau WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell Announcer: Chuck Smith

In this episode of Working Class Audio, mastering engineer Alberto de Icaza shares his journey from Mexico City to the U.S., transitioning from playing in metal bands to becoming a mastering engineer. Now based in Austin, Texas, Alberto discusses his path to mastering during the pandemic and the importance of building client relationships organically through word-of-mouth. In This Episode, We Discuss: AI Tools Usage Mastering Career Shift Industry Challenges Impact Of AI On Work Client Relations Networking Expansion Spanish Market Strategy Social Media Promotion Professional Collaborations Remote Work Preference Cash Flow Management Studio Setup Adapting To New Tech Working With Key Mentors Crashing His Car From Mexico to New Jersey, to Texas Matt's Rant: All The Other Stuff Links and Show Notes Alberto's Site Steve Chadie on WCA #245 Steve Chadie on WCA #487 Credits Guest: Alberto de Icaza Host: Matt Boudreau Engineer: Matt Boudreau Producer: Matt Boudreau Editing: Anne-Marie Pleau WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell Announcer: Chuck Smith

In this episode of Working Class Audio, host Matt Boudreau welcomes back Cesar Mejia, a longtime friend of the podcast, to discuss his continued journey as an educator, studio owner, and audio professional. Cesar, first featured in episode #117 back in 2017, shares his experiences navigating the post-pandemic world, teaching the next generation of musicians, and balancing life at his studio, Shelter Studios. In This Episode, We Discuss: Cesar Mejia's Return to Podcast: Reflecting on his first appearance in 2017, episode 117, and discussing his journey. Teaching Post-COVID: Cesar talks about teaching at Cal State Dominguez Hills and Whittier College, highlighting changes in student mentality and the shift in teaching due to the pandemic. Students' Musical Preferences: Discussing the differences between students at Dominguez Hills, who are more electronic-focused, and those at Whittier, who are often acoustic musicians. Shelter Studios and Family Property: Cesar's studio, Shelter Studios, is located on family property that he inherited. He is working on possibly expanding the space while keeping the studio comfortable and home-like. Balancing Expansion and Stability: Conversations about the benefits of expanding the studio or staying in the current location and the importance of financial stability. Wiring and Additional Gigs: In addition to teaching and studio work, Cesar occasionally takes on wiring gigs for other studios, keeping his income diversified. Collaboration with Herbie Hancock: Cesar continues to work with Herbie Hancock, especially on tours post-COVID, and handles audio tasks such as mixing stems for live performances. Matt's Rant: Being in Asset Links and Show Notes The Shelter Studios The Shelter on Instangram WCA Episode #117 with Cesar Mejia Credits Guest: Cesar Mejia Host: Matt Boudreau Engineer: Matt Boudreau Producer: Matt Boudreau Editing: Anne-Marie Pleau WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell Announcer: Chuck Smith

My guest for this episode is Producer/Engineer/ Composer Ebonie Smith, who currently holds the esteemed roles of senior audio engineer and producer at Atlantic Records. Ebonie has worked on projects for The Hamilton Cast Album, Janelle Monae, Sturgill Simpson, and Jason Mraz. In This Episode, We Discuss: Memphis Upbringing and Tri-State Area Radio and Musical Influences Transition from Sports to Music College Struggles and Musical Pursuit Technological Fascination and Audio Barnard College Audio Tech Job Pursuit of Music Technology Parental Expectations vs. Music NYU and Advanced Music Studies Career Start at Atlantic Records Evolution from Editing to Producing Hamilton Cast Recording Involvement Creating an Incubator Program Move to Los Angeles Decision Differences Between NYC and LA Atlantic Records Role Transformation Producing Unique Label Projects Challenges in the Music Industry Importance of Administrative Proficiency Balancing Multiple Creative Roles A Continuing Passion for Audio Multitasking Is a Necessity Full Control of the Signal Chain Matt's Rant: Making Opportunity For Yourself Links and Show Notes Ebonie's Site Credits Guest: Ebonie Smith Host: Matt Boudreau Engineer: Matt Boudreau Producer: Matt Boudreau Editing: Anne-Marie Pleau WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell Announcer: Chuck Smith

My guests today are Wesley Heaton and Kameron Lockwood, producers, engineers, and mixers from Indianapolis, Indiana. They are studio partners at Holy Ground Productions and have extensive live sound experience working with bands like Bingo Boys, Skeletonwitch Rituaal, and Pillars. In this episode, we discuss: Studio Location And Name Early Friendship Timeline Growing Up Experiences Meeting Through Audio Live Sound Frustrations Musical Background Origins Gear Acquisition Journey First Paid Recordings Studio Environment Challenges DIY Venue Recordings Recording School Experiences Self-Education In Audio Recording With Anthrax Transition From Live Sound Studio Construction Challenges Importance Of Deposits Business Partnership Dynamics Studio Community Focus Lessons From First Studio Hospitality And Client Comfort Matt's Rant: Perfection Links and Show Notes Holy Ground Productions Holy Ground on Instagram Credits Guest: Wesley Heaton and Kameron Lockwood Host: Matt Boudreau Engineer: Matt Boudreau Producer: Matt Boudreau Editing: Anne-Marie Pleau WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell Announcer: Chuck Smith

My guest today is Mastering Engineer Ben Pike, who runs an analog-based mastering and record cutting studio in Leeds, West Yorkshire, UK. Ben specializes in vinyl mastering and custom lathe cut records, working primarily with independent artists. He has collaborated with artists and groups such as ATA Records, Yaatri, The London Ambient Orchestra, Smith & The Honey Badgers, and King Zepha. In this episode, we discuss: Leeds, West Yorkshire Roots Discovering Recording Technology DIY Recording Beginnings Home Studio Evolution Transition to Mastering Vinyl Mastering Journey Analog Studio Setup Custom Lathe Cut Records Challenges of Chronic Illness Building a Mastering Studio Navigating the Music Industry Supporting Independent Artists Small Batch Vinyl Production Innovative Vinyl Techniques Mastering and Cutting Synergy Restoring Vintage Gear Matt's Rant: The Art of Being Concise Links and Show Notes Ben Pike's Studio: Rare Tone Mastering Jeff Powell Companion Episode Credits Guest: Ben Pike Host: Matt Boudreau Engineer: Matt Boudreau Producer: Matt Boudreau Editing: Anne-Marie Pleau WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell Announcer: Chuck Smith

My guest today is Producer/Multi-Instrumentalist/Engineer, Jordan Brooke Hamlin, who has worked with Indigo Girls, KT Tunstall, Vienna Teng, Lila Blue, Katie Herzig, Lucy Wainwright Roche, Allison Russell, and Brandy Clark. --------------------------------- In this episode, we discuss Upbringing In Kentucky Music-Loving Family Zeppelin Hippies Deep Connection To Music Early Music Exposure Discovery Of Production Sarah McLachlan Influence Running Her Studio Creating Artist Space Mental Health Focus Challenges In Nashville Supportive Studio Environment Economic Challenges Studio Setup Efficiency Working With Labels Navigating Industry Changes Moxie Studio Origin Residential Studio Blend Artist Commune Vision Reclaiming Neglected Land Importance Of Environment Balancing Creativity And Deadlines Nashville's Music Culture Contrasting With Los Angeles Session Efficiency Vs. Exploration Encouraging Artistic Risk Challenges In Studio Ownership Supporting Independent Artists Grant Programs For Artists Gender Equity In The Audio Industry Financial Pressures On Music Organizational Tools (Airtable) Payment Delays From Labels Navigating Professional Relationships Empathy For Touring Artists Evolving Industry Dynamics --------------------------------- Matt's Rant: Getting Organized --------------------------------- Links and Show Notes Book Matt mentions in Interview: Day Trading Attention AirTable Jordan's Studio --------------------------------- Credits Guest: Jordan Brooke Hamlin Host: Matt Boudreau Engineer: Matt Boudreau Producer: Matt Boudreau Editing: Anne-Marie Pleau  WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell  Announcer: Chuck Smith

My guest is Grammy Nominated Music Metadata Professional Tony Brooke. Tony has worked on projects for Richard Thompson, Coldplay, David Byrne, twenty one pilots, Maroon 5, Jane's Addiction, Duran Duran, Steve Miller, Norah Jones, Erasure, Ramblin' Jack Elliott, Doobie Brothers, Sarah McLachlan, Elvis Costello, Seal, George Clinton, Emmylou Harris, Indigo Girls, Lucinda Williams, Dave Chappelle, Khaled & Carlos Santana, Herbie Hancock, Stern Grove Festival, Hardly Strictly Bluegrass Festival. He's also worked for Pandora/SiriusXM and Warner Music Group. --------------------------------- In this episode, we discuss Tony's Audio Production Journey Background and Education Bay Area Move Technical Skills & Equipment Live Music Engineer to Entrepreneur Tascam DA88 Benefits Multi-Track Services Gig Organization Logistics Music Industry Experiences Seasonal Income Fluctuations Business Diversification Website Development Ultimate Track Sheet Career Transition Insights Digital Console Shift Career Coach Influence Master's Degree Pursuit Family Support Gratitude Work-Life Balance Challenges Music Industry Pressures Honesty and Humility Importance Music Data Exchange Research DDEX XML Format Pandora Credit Inclusion Apple Credit Attribution Issues Identifier Initiative Music Data Management Tools Sound Credit Replacement Muse.AI & Other Databases Data Accuracy Challenges Technological Changes Preparation Three-Tiered Data Storage Data Preservation Strategies Copyrighted Compositions Importance Streaming Service Identification Online Course Idea Digital Data Management Strategies --------------------------------- Matt's Rant: Embracing Social Media --------------------------------- Links and Show Notes Book Matt mentions in Rant: Day Trading Attention Tools for capturing data in the studio:  Sound Credit: https://www.soundcredit.com/  Session Studio: https://www.sessionstudio.com/  VEVA Collect: https://vevacollect.com/  Identifiers: ISNI (International Standard Name Identifier): http://isni.org/  ISWC (International Standard Musical Work Code): https://www.iswc.org/  DDEX standards for music data exchange: https://ddex.net/  CLIP - Free resource to learn industry terminology, creator rights, and how to get credited and paid: https://goclip.org/en/music  Master Tape Rescue project to find a home for lost tapes and other formats (Brian Kehew and Danny White): https://www.mastertaperescue.com/  Tony Brooke on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonybrooke/  SilentWay.com: http://www.silentway.com/  --------------------------------- Credits Guest: Tony Brooke Host: Matt Boudreau Engineer: Matt Boudreau Producer: Matt Boudreau Editing: Anne-Marie Pleau  WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell  Announcer: Chuck Smith

My guest is Hans-Martin Buff, a Recording Engineer, Music Producer, and 3D Geek based in Munich, Germany. Hans has worked with Prince, Peter Gabriel, and the Scorpions. --------------------------------- In this episode, we discuss Introduction and Background Family Musical Influence Early Musical Interests Educational Background Transition to Music Career Pachyderm Studio Experience Nirvana Recording Sessions Working with Prince Paisley Park Experience Prince's Influence on Hans Challenges in the Industry Difficult Clients and Lessons Technical Recording Techniques Personal Growth and Development Sequencing and Assembly Memorable Projects and Highlights Impact on Personal Music Enjoyment --------------------------------- Matt's Rant: When to Let it Go --------------------------------- Links and Show Notes Hans' Site Hans on Instagram --------------------------------- Credits Guest: Hans-Martin Buff Host: Matt Boudreau Engineer: Matt Boudreau Producer: Matt Boudreau Editing: Anne-Marie Pleau  WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell  Announcer: Chuck Smith

My guest today is Grammy-winning engineer and Mixer Chris Dugan, who has worked on projects for Green Day, Gaslight Anthem, Weezer, and Alanis Morissette. --------------------------------- In this episode, we discuss: Touring and Work with Green Day European Tour Recording Live Shows Studio Engineer Mixing for TV Broadcasts Transition to More Mixing Mixing with the Artist Present Studio Setup and Equipment Family-Friendly Home Studio Home Studio Customization Efforts Studio Setup During the Pandemic Importance of Sound Reflections Portable Mixing Setup Benefits Atmos Setup Decision Factors Affordable Speaker Tuning Balancing Work and Family Balancing Family and Work Parenting While Touring Encouraging Kids' Musical Interest Family's Involvement in Music Kids' Interest in Studio Travel and Jet Lag Tips Managing Sleep and Travel Jet Lag Recovery Strategies Efficient Airport Tips Global Entry Efficiency Time Shifter App Usage Freelance Work and Pricing Freelance Pricing Challenges Word-of-Mouth Opportunities Managing Project Deadlines Impact of Unconventional Tracks Importance of Politeness Importance of Session Prep Backup Storage and Technology Backup Storage Discussions Travel-Friendly Work Strategies --------------------------------- Matt's Rant: The Battle for Your Attention --------------------------------- Links and Show Notes Chris Dugan on WCA #078 TimeShifter APP Global Entry --------------------------------- Credits Guest: Chris Dugan Host: Matt Boudreau Engineer: Matt Boudreau Producer: Matt Boudreau Editing: Anne-Marie Pleau  WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell  Announcer: Chuck Smith

My guest today is Grammy-winning London-based producer and mixer Catherine Marks, who has worked on projects for boygenius, Wolf Alice, and The Mysterines.   In this episode, we discuss Upbringing in Australia Early exposure to music through parents' record collection Participation in a Yamaha piano course at an all-girls school Development of interest in songwriting and record production Studying architecture at the University of Melbourne Taking a year out to work in Dublin Introduction to Dublin's music Immersion in live music and DJ nights in Dublin Discovery of interest in music production and reverb Transition from architecture degree to music production career Learning about music production while working for Flood Recording a song with Elastica, gaining Flood's attention Fearlessness and willingness to take opportunities Early advice from her father and Support from the Dublin community Early experiences in the studio, Multitasking in various roles Learning via observing, asking questions, and reading manuals Development of skills and studio efficiency Mentorship from Alan Moulder Working with producers like Dmitry Tikovoy, Ben Hillier, and Flood Importance of capturing the immediacy of a moment over technical perfection Discipline to let go of awareness and move forward in projects Managing creative conflicts and rising from unknown engineer to sought-after producer Establishing connections with key individuals in the music industry Importance of mutual understanding and communication in the recording process Working with Alan Moulder and Flood, enhancing her career Mutual respect and high expectations foster professional growth Importance of enjoying projects and respecting colleagues Prioritizing a balanced lifestyle over immediate success Pressure to maintain career momentum and need for self-care to prevent burnout Consistent commitment and passion for work Experiences and reflections on winning a Grammy award Highs and lows of industry recognition Challenges of being away for extended periods during album work Anticipation for future projects and collaborations Matt's Rant: 500 Episodes and Pressing On Links and Show Notes Catherine's Site Catherine on Instagram Credits Guest: Catherine Marks Host: Matt Boudreau Engineer: Matt Boudreau Producer: Matt Boudreau Editing: Anne-Marie Pleau  WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell  Announcer: Chuck Smith

My guest today is UK-based mastering engineer Stephen Kerrison, known for his work with Petbrick, Ditz, Charles Watson, Jake Isaac, Lleo, and Liz Lawrence. This is Stephen's second appearance on Working Class Audio, his first being WCA #413 alongside Katie Tavini, a fellow Weird Jungle Mastering Collective member. In this episode, we discuss Weird Jungle Collective Update Liverpool Music Scene Evolution Working Under a Record Shop From Touring to Mastering Collective's Structural Changes Industry's Financial Realities Instilling Confidence Balancing Creativity and Technique Musicians' Record Perspectives Older vs. Younger Musicians Transition to Mastering Mastering Different Genres Challenges of Live Performance Importance of Taste in Mastering Exploring the UK Music Scene Collaborative Music Environment Managing Work-Life Balance Financial Strategy Use of Backing Tracks Maintaining Artist Confidence Comparison to Visual Art Listening Checking Out The Competition Seth Godin Matt's Rant: Stepping Away Links and Show Notes Matt's Photo Instagram account WCA #413 Stephens Site Katie's Site Weird Jungle Credits Guest: Stephen Kerrison Host: Matt Boudreau Engineer: Matt Boudreau Producer: Matt Boudreau Editing: Anne-Marie Pleau  WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell  Announcer: Chuck Smith

My guest today is Jacob Winik, the COO, Technical Director, and Sound Designer at Cosmic Standard, an audio production company he co-founded with his wife, Eliza Smith, in January 2020. Jacob has collaborated on projects with TED, Patagonia, Dropbox, KQED, Samantha Crain, Meernaa, Doe Eye, and Steep Ravine. He previously worked as an audio engineer at Tiny Telephone in San Francisco. In this episode, we discuss Bay Area Upbringing Parents' Musical Influence Early Punk Music Divorce Sparks Punk Interest Gillman Street Experiences Technology at Home Early Instruments School Band Reluctance Discovering DIY Punk College Band Experience House Shows in College Obsessed with Music Making Improving Live Sound Early Recording Awareness DIY Recording at Gillman First Demo Recording College Film Studies Pursuit of Music Recording Internship at The Compound Learning Basic Recording Skills Building Client Relationships Internship at Fantasy Studios Analog Tape Recording Challenges Journey Recording Experience Interning with Magic Magic Orchestra John Vanderslice Studio Setup at Tiny Telephone Transition to Professional Engineer Hands-on Learning with Tape Podcast Company Formation Balancing Overhead Costs Scalable Team Structure Remote Work Adaptation Handling Pandemic Challenges Client Training Remotely Improved Quality of Life Building Client Relationships Matt's Rant: Moving Through Your Audio Career with Blinders On Links and Show Notes Cosmic Standard John Vanderslice on WCA Credits Guest: Jacob Winik Host: Matt Boudreau Engineer: Matt Boudreau Producer: Matt Boudreau Editing: Anne-Marie Pleau  WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell  Announcer: Chuck Smith

My guest today is Los Angeles-based Producer/Mixer/Engineer/Drummer Danny Reisch, who has worked on projects for Local Natives, Dirty Projectors, Khruangbin, Barns Courtney, White Denim, Other Lives, Shearwater, Sun June, Tele Novella, Intocable, Halo video game ( last 3 seasons), The Green Knight score (a24), Disney Peter Pan score, Interview With The Vampire score, Willie Nelson, Ed Sheeran, Lizzo, The Zombies, Counting Crows, Jimmy Cliff, Father John Misty and many more. In this episode, we discuss Dallas Childhood Memories Early Band Experiences Four Track Beginnings Michael Jackson Obsession Back to Future Influence Supportive Creative Family Unique School Experience Discipline College Music Degree Early Audio Awareness Atmos Mixing Insights Texas State University Touring and College Life Sound Design Job Band Experiences Takeaways Respect for Bands Working with Passionate Clients Good Danny's Studio Journey Early Studio Challenges Austin Music Scene Daytrotter Sessions Impact South by Southwest Frenzy Live Recording Skills Move to Los Angeles Pandemic Mixing Shift Film Score Mixing Financial Ecosystem Differences LA Studio Setup Challenges John Congleton's Advice Matt's Rant: What If? Links and Show Notes Danny on Instagram John Congelton on WCA Credits Guest: Danny Reisch Host: Matt Boudreau Engineer: Matt Boudreau Producer: Matt Boudreau Editing: Anne-Marie Pleau  WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell  Announcer: Chuck Smith

My guest today is the return of producer/engineer/mixer Don Zientara. Don has been highly influential in the D.C. hardcore music scene for over 30 years for his work with iconic punk and rock bands, including Fugazi, Minor Threat, Bad Brains, Jawbox, and The Evens. His contributions have been pivotal in shaping the sound of many Dischord Records artists. In this episode, we discuss Studio Relocation New Basement Setup Historical Recordings Studio Gear Changes Analog to Digital Shift Compact Studio Space Recording Challenges and Success Microphone Selection Strategy Digital Console Benefits Outboard Gear Preferences Lower Overhead Costs Promotion and Clientele Reflection on Studio History Neighborhood and Noise Management Surfing and Staying Young Selective Project Choices Client Reactions Control and Live Room Setup Communication in Studio Evolution of Punk Scene Consistent Studio Rates Historical Significance Industry Perception Matt's Rant: Beginning the Journey Links and Show Notes Don on WCA #106 Don Zientara's Biography: Wikipedia Inner Ear Studio: Inner Ear Studio Official Website Rights of Spring: Rights of Spring - Wikipedia Credits Guest: Don Zientara Host: Matt Boudreau Engineer: Matt Boudreau Producer: Matt Boudreau Editing: Anne-Marie Pleau  WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell  Announcer: Chuck Smith

My guest today is Bristol, UK-based producer and mixer Elliot Vaughan, who has worked on projects by Frank Turner, Jason Ringenberg, Spunge, Ugly Kid Joe, Sonic Boom 6, The Wildhearts, Masca, and Hectares. Elliot is also an MPG Awards 2024 Breakthrough Producer Of The Year Nominee. In this episode, we discuss Bristol Miles to Kilometers Conversion City of Black Sabbath Birmingham Heavy Metal Roots Born Near John Bonham Mom's Bank to Nurse Career Dad's Ever-Changing Jobs Peacefully Divorced Parents Music In the House Piano Practice Hated Old Piano Teacher Drum Lessons to Escape Math Parents' Divorce Silver Lining Drums vs Piano Early Band Touring Adventures Recording Studio Misfit Mission Impossible Night Pro Tools Learning Struggles Band Tour Realization Moment Day Job at Museum Begging for Studio Time Faked Experience for Bands Building Reputation Persistent Learning Matt's Rant: Change of Heart Links and Show Notes Elliots site Credits Guest: Elliot Vaughan Host: Matt Boudreau Engineer: Matt Boudreau Producer: Matt Boudreau Editing: Anne-Marie Pleau  WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell  Announcer: Chuck Smith