Working Class Audio

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 stu

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 AreaBuilding and managing Studio D RecordingRecording techniques for live rooms and handling isolationWorking with iconic artists like Faith No More, Huey Lewis, and SoundgardenThe impact of streaming and the changing music industryBalancing a 40-year career with family lifeLessons learned from mentors and iconic engineersAdvice for aspiring audio engineers and producersShifting from studio ownership to freelance workMatt’s

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 projectsChallenges of recording classical musicMicrophone techniques for live performancesManaging acoustics in different environmentsMentoring young engineersPractical learning in audioEvolution of audio technologyMoving to CanadaSummers in ChicagoMatt’s Rant: The most important thing is what comes out of the speakers!Links and Show Notes:Dr. Mary Mazurek's Faculty ProfileMary Mazurek's previous WCA episode #253Credits:Guest: Dr. Mary MazurekHost: Matt BoudreauEngineer: Matt BoudreauProducer: Matt BoudreauEditing: Anne-Marie PleauWCA 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 RecordingBuilding Client TrustCreative CollaborationCrafting Signature SoundNavigating Industry ChangesFreelance PersistenceAudio Gear InsightsMixing StrategiesStudio WorkflowClient CommunicationRecording ChallengesEvolving Sound TrendsLearning from Other ProducersEarning Fans of Your WorkMatt's Rant: Covid!Links and Show NotesGabriel's Site25th Street Recording StudioOriginal WCA #011 with GabrielWCA #073 with John SchimpfWCA #249 with Jeff KolhedeWCA #005 with John CunibertiWCA #290 with Joe ChiccarelliCreditsGuest: Gabriel ShepardHost: Matt BoudreauEngineer: Matt BoudreauProducer: Matt BoudreauEditing: Anne-Marie PleauWCA Theme Music: Cliff TruesdellAnnouncer: Ch

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 ShiftsEarly Adoption Of Pro ToolsDiscovery Channel ExperienceRemote Podcast ProductionTransition From Drumming To Film CompositionMidlife Career PivotFreedom In PodcastingNetworking And RelationshipsWorking From A SailboatOvercoming Corporate MergersEmbracing Technological ChangesMatt's Rant: Learning to Swim FirstLinks and Show NotesSteve's SiteAcon DeReverberateAccentize PluginsCreditsGuest: Steve LackHost: Matt BoudreauEngineer: Matt BoudreauProducer: Matt

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 UsageMastering Career ShiftIndustry ChallengesImpact Of AI On WorkClient RelationsNetworking ExpansionSpanish Market StrategySocial Media PromotionProfessional CollaborationsRemote Work PreferenceCash Flow ManagementStudio SetupAdapting To New TechWorking With Key MentorsCrashing His CarFrom Mexico to New Jersey, to TexasMatt's Rant: All The Other StuffLinks and Show NotesAlberto's SiteSteve Chadie on WCA #245Steve Chadie on WCA #487CreditsGuest: Alberto de IcazaHost: Matt BoudreauEngineer: Matt BoudreauProducer: Matt BoudreauEditing: Anne-Marie PleauWCA Theme Music: Cliff TruesdellAnnouncer: 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 proper

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 AreaRadio and Musical InfluencesTransition from Sports to MusicCollege Struggles and Musical PursuitTechnological Fascination and AudioBarnard College Audio Tech JobPursuit of Music TechnologyParental Expectations vs. MusicNYU and Advanced Music StudiesCareer Start at Atlantic RecordsEvolution from Editing to ProducingHamilton Cast Recording InvolvementCreating an Incubator ProgramMove to Los Angeles DecisionDifferences Between NYC and LAAtlantic Records Role TransformationProducing Unique Label ProjectsChallenges in the Music IndustryImportance of Administrative ProficiencyBalancing Multiple Creative RolesA Continuing Passion for AudioMultitasking Is a NecessityFull Control of

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 NameEarly Friendship TimelineGrowing Up ExperiencesMeeting Through AudioLive Sound FrustrationsMusical Background OriginsGear Acquisition JourneyFirst Paid RecordingsStudio Environment ChallengesDIY Venue RecordingsRecording School ExperiencesSelf-Education In AudioRecording With AnthraxTransition From Live SoundStudio Construction ChallengesImportance Of DepositsBusiness Partnership DynamicsStudio Community FocusLessons From First StudioHospitality And Client ComfortMatt's Rant: PerfectionLinks and Show NotesHoly Ground ProductionsHoly Ground on InstagramCreditsGuest: Wesley Heaton and Kameron LockwoodHost: Matt BoudreauEngineer: Matt BoudreauProducer: Matt BoudreauEditing: Anne-Marie

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 RootsDiscovering Recording TechnologyDIY Recording BeginningsHome Studio EvolutionTransition to MasteringVinyl Mastering JourneyAnalog Studio SetupCustom Lathe Cut RecordsChallenges of Chronic IllnessBuilding a Mastering StudioNavigating the Music IndustrySupporting Independent ArtistsSmall Batch Vinyl ProductionInnovative Vinyl TechniquesMastering and Cutting SynergyRestoring Vintage GearMatt's Rant: The Art of Being ConciseLinks and Show NotesBen Pike's Studio: Rare Tone MasteringJeff Powell Companion EpisodeCreditsGuest: Ben PikeHost: Matt BoudreauEngineer: Matt Boudre

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 discussUpbringing In KentuckyMusic-Loving FamilyZeppelin HippiesDeep Connection To MusicEarly Music ExposureDiscovery Of ProductionSarah McLachlan InfluenceRunning Her StudioCreating Artist SpaceMental Health FocusChallenges In NashvilleSupportive Studio EnvironmentEconomic ChallengesStudio Setup EfficiencyWorking With LabelsNavigating Industry ChangesMoxie Studio OriginResidential Studio BlendArtist Commune VisionReclaiming Neglected LandImportance Of EnvironmentBalancing Creativity And DeadlinesNashville's Music CultureContrasting With Los AngelesSession Efficiency Vs. ExplorationEncouraging Artistic RiskChallenges In Studio OwnershipSupporting Independent ArtistsGrant Programs For ArtistsGender Equity In The Audio IndustryFinancial Pre

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 discussTony's Audio Production JourneyBackground and EducationBay Area MoveTechnical Skills & EquipmentLive Music Engineer to EntrepreneurTascam DA88 BenefitsMulti-Track ServicesGig Organization LogisticsMusic Industry ExperiencesSeasonal Income FluctuationsBusiness DiversificationWebsite DevelopmentUltimate Track SheetCareer Transition InsightsDigital Console ShiftCareer Coach InfluenceMaster's Degree

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 discussIntroduction and BackgroundFamily Musical InfluenceEarly Musical InterestsEducational BackgroundTransition to Music CareerPachyderm Studio ExperienceNirvana Recording SessionsWorking with PrincePaisley Park ExperiencePrince's Influence on HansChallenges in the IndustryDifficult Clients and LessonsTechnical Recording TechniquesPersonal Growth and DevelopmentSequencing and AssemblyMemorable Projects and HighlightsImpact on Personal Music Enjoyment---------------------------------Matt's Rant: When to Let it Go---------------------------------Links and Show NotesHans' SiteHans on Instagram---------------------------------CreditsGuest: Hans-Martin BuffHost: Matt BoudreauEngineer: Matt BoudreauProducer: Matt BoudreauEditing: Anne-Marie Pleau WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell An

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 DayEuropean TourRecording Live ShowsStudio EngineerMixing for TV BroadcastsTransition to More MixingMixing with the Artist PresentStudio Setup and EquipmentFamily-Friendly Home StudioHome Studio Customization EffortsStudio Setup During the PandemicImportance of Sound ReflectionsPortable Mixing Setup BenefitsAtmos Setup Decision FactorsAffordable Speaker TuningBalancing Work and FamilyBalancing Family and WorkParenting While TouringEncouraging Kids' Musical InterestFamily's Involvement in MusicKids' Interest in StudioTravel and Jet Lag TipsManaging Sleep and TravelJet Lag Recovery StrategiesEfficient Airport TipsGlobal Entry EfficiencyTime Shifter App UsageFreelance Work and PricingFreelance Pricing ChallengesWord-of-Mouth OpportunitiesManaging Project DeadlinesImpact of

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 discussUpbringing in AustraliaEarly exposure to music through parents' record collectionParticipation in a Yamaha piano course at an all-girls schoolDevelopment of interest in songwriting and record productionStudying architecture at the University of MelbourneTaking a year out to work in DublinIntroduction to Dublin's musicImmersion in live music and DJ nights in DublinDiscovery of interest in music production and reverbTransition from architecture degree to music production careerLearning about music production while working for FloodRecording a song with Elastica, gaining Flood's attentionFearlessness and willingness to take opportunitiesEarly advice from her father andSupport from the Dublin communityEarly experiences in the studio,Multitasking in various rolesLearning via observing, asking questions, and reading manualsD

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 discussWeird Jungle Collective UpdateLiverpool Music Scene EvolutionWorking Under a Record ShopFrom Touring to MasteringCollective's Structural ChangesIndustry's Financial RealitiesInstilling ConfidenceBalancing Creativity and TechniqueMusicians' Record PerspectivesOlder vs. Younger MusiciansTransition to MasteringMastering Different GenresChallenges of Live PerformanceImportance of Taste in MasteringExploring the UK Music SceneCollaborative Music EnvironmentManaging Work-Life BalanceFinancial StrategyUse of Backing TracksMaintaining Artist ConfidenceComparison to Visual ArtListeningChecking Out The CompetitionSeth GodinMatt's Rant: Stepping AwayLinks and Show NotesMatt's Photo In

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 discussBay Area UpbringingParents' Musical InfluenceEarly Punk MusicDivorce Sparks Punk InterestGillman Street ExperiencesTechnology at HomeEarly InstrumentsSchool Band ReluctanceDiscovering DIY PunkCollege Band ExperienceHouse Shows in CollegeObsessed with Music MakingImproving Live SoundEarly Recording AwarenessDIY Recording at GillmanFirst Demo RecordingCollege Film StudiesPursuit of Music RecordingInternship at The CompoundLearning Basic Recording SkillsBuilding Client RelationshipsInternship at Fantasy StudiosAnalog Tape Recording ChallengesJourney Recording ExperienceInterning with Magic Magic OrchestraJo

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 discussDallas Childhood MemoriesEarly Band ExperiencesFour Track BeginningsMichael Jackson ObsessionBack to Future InfluenceSupportive Creative FamilyUnique School ExperienceDisciplineCollege Music DegreeEarly Audio AwarenessAtmos Mixing InsightsTexas State University Touring and College LifeSound Design JobBand Experiences TakeawaysRespect for BandsWorking with Passionate ClientsGood Danny's Studio JourneyEarly Studio ChallengesAustin Music SceneDaytrotter Sessions ImpactSouth by Southwest FrenzyLive Recording SkillsMov

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 discussStudio RelocationNew Basement SetupHistorical RecordingsStudio Gear ChangesAnalog to Digital ShiftCompact Studio SpaceRecording Challenges and SuccessMicrophone Selection StrategyDigital Console BenefitsOutboard Gear PreferencesLower Overhead CostsPromotion and ClienteleReflection on Studio HistoryNeighborhood and Noise ManagementSurfing and Staying YoungSelective Project ChoicesClient ReactionsControl and Live Room SetupCommunication in StudioEvolution of Punk SceneConsistent Studio RatesHistorical SignificanceIndustry PerceptionMatt's Rant: Beginning the JourneyLinks and Show NotesDon on WCA #106Don Zientara's Biography: WikipediaI

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 discussBristolMiles to Kilometers ConversionCity of Black SabbathBirmingham Heavy Metal RootsBorn Near John BonhamMom's Bank to Nurse CareerDad's Ever-Changing JobsPeacefully Divorced ParentsMusic In the HousePiano PracticeHated Old Piano TeacherDrum Lessons to Escape MathParents' Divorce Silver LiningDrums vs Piano Early Band Touring AdventuresRecording Studio MisfitMission Impossible NightPro Tools Learning StrugglesBand Tour Realization MomentDay Job at MuseumBegging for Studio TimeFaked Experience for BandsBuilding ReputationPersistent LearningMatt's Rant: Change of HeartLinks and Show NotesElliots siteCreditsGuest: Elliot VaughanHost: Matt BoudreauEngineer: Matt BoudreauProducer: Matt BoudreauEditing: A