Rule #1:
No smoking inside the studio
I don’t judge, but I like to keep my equipment and my lungs clean. You should absolutely feel free to step outside for a smoke now and then if that’s your thing, but if you smoke so much that I have to air out the studio over the next day or two, you will be charged a $100 cleaning fee.
Rule #2:
No more than two drinks per session
Again, I’m not here to judge. But when you’re in the studio you’re here to work. If you need a drink or two to calm your nerves, that’s understandable. More than that and you’re inhibiting your ability to perform and communicate well.
I’ve had someone drink so much that he started crying during the session because he couldn’t pull off his guitar lead, and then he put a dent in my Les Paul. Don't be that guy.
Rule #3:
No back channels
In order to make sure everyone is on the same page, we will choose one person to represent your group, and all mix feedback will go through them. This is to avoid the situation where everyone in the band separately asks me to turn up their instrument during the mix stage. We can always schedule a group conversation if needed!
Recording session payment policy
- 25% deposit required at time of booking; non-refundable if cancelled within 7 days of scheduled session.
- Remainder due at the end of the session.
Mix & master payment policy
- 50% deposit required up front.
- Remainder due upon project completion.
Recommendation #1:
Know your music inside and out
The best way to feel comfortable during a recording session is to be overly prepared. So practice your music until you can play it blindfolded. Practice your parts by yourself, and with the rest of the group. Practice to a click. Practice, practice, practice. You’ve got this!
Recommendation #2:
Send existing recordings before the session
This could be a voice memo, a live video, a demo, even a Guitar Pro project. I’ll be able to get to work more quickly if I’m familiar with the music!
Recommendation #3:
Practice playing loudly and consistently
Some say that tone is in the hands. This is partially true. If you make aggressive music, it will typically sound better if you play aggressively. And in a studio setting, consistency is crucial. So practice the perfect palm mute or the perfect rim shot* and try to pull them off every time.
*Yes, I said the perfect rim shot. If we’re going for a big modern rock sound, we want the snare to be as loud as possible compared to the cymbals, so rim shots are super important. I was hesitant at first, but then I noticed all my favorite drummers were doing it. You’re welcome!
Recommendation #4:
Prep your gear
For any instruments you bring in, make sure guitar/bass strings and drum batter heads have been replaced recently — ideally within the past few weeks. This makes a huge difference in tone and tuning stability!
Recommendation #5:
Don’t bring extra people to the session
Anyone who isn't a band member, producer, photographer, or videographer should probably sit out the session. It’s easier to stay focused with a smaller group, and honestly most people will be bored watching the process unfold.
And due to the nature of the work, the less noise the better. If someone opens up a bag of chips in the middle of session, I will send them outside!
Hopefully I haven’t scared you off!
I’m generally pretty reasonable and easy to work with — these guidelines are to ensure your session runs smoothly.