Episodes

  • In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt discusses Julie Kahryns extensive experience in the music industry as a producer, sound designer, composer, and educator. With a background spanning from criminal justice to a full-time music career, Julie has worked on a wide range of projects, including crafting unique audio samples for top software companies such as Ableton, Output, Cherry Audio, Splice, and Bandlab, as well as supervising music for films, and composing original scores.

    In This Episode, We Discuss:

    Career Shift From Justice

    Roles: Producer, Composer, Designer

    Teaching at Berklee NYC

    Early Music Influences

    Mentor Tony Conniff's Guidance

    Learning Logic Pro

    Income From Samples

    Film Music Supervision

    Balancing Creativity and Business

    Parenthood's Career Impact

    Building Artist Confidence

    Collaborative Mixing Work

    Income Diversification

    Influences: Brian Eno, Laurie Anderson

    Film Scoring Techniques


    Matt's Rant: Your Health

    Links and Show Notes:
    Julie's Site (iamsnowangel.com)

    Credits:

    Guest: Julie Kathryn

    Host: Matt Boudreau

    Engineer: Matt Boudreau

    Producer: Matt Boudreau

    Editing: Anne-Marie Pleau

    WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell

  • In this episode, Matt talks with Will Holland, owner of Chill House, a 2,000-square-foot studio in Charlestown, Massachusetts. Will has worked with acts like SeepeopleS, Club d'Elf, Nth Power, Berklee, and the Lowell Chamber Orchestra.

    In This Episode, We Discuss:

    Chill House Studio Location

    2,000 Square Feet Space

    Multiple Studio Rooms

    Local, Mid-Level Clients

    Will's Boston Beginnings

    Internship Turned Career

    Ownership Advantages Discussed

    Low Overhead Emphasized

    Word-of-Mouth Marketing

    Work-Life Balance Focus

    Future Relocation Possible

    Classic Rock Influence

    Staying Young

    Setting Rates


    Matt's Rant: Following Up!

    Links and Show Notes:
    Will's Studio

    Credits:

    Guest: Will Holland

    Host: Matt Boudreau

    Engineer: Matt Boudreau

    Producer: Matt Boudreau

    Editing: Anne-Marie Pleau

    WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell

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  • In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt Boudreau welcomes back audio engineer David, initially featured in WCA #210. David dives into his journey since his last interview, sharing updates on his Portland-based studio move, reflections on the city's music scene post-COVID, and how the pandemic shifted industry dynamics. David offers insights on balancing live sound with studio recording, the adaptive approaches required in today's music landscape, and how Portland's music community is showing resilience in challenging times. David has worked with fourhundred, Lucid Aisle, Storm Large, Kelly Koval, Joshua Lowe and the Juncos.


    In This Episode, We Discuss:

    Relocating Studio Spaces and Adapting to New Work Environments

    Post-COVID Shifts in Portland’s Music Scene and Industry-Wide Changes

    Balancing Live Sound, Studio Recording, and Creative Roles

    Community Support, Artist Resilience, and Collaborative Culture in Portland

    Freelance Audio Strategies: Workflow Tips, Gear Decisions, and Client Relations

    Navigating New Music Production Trends and Managing Technical Challenges

    Challenges in Sustaining a Music Career in a Changing Industry Landscape



    Matt's Rant: Refuse to Giveup


    Links and Show Notes:

    David's First Appearance on WCA

    Justin Phelps from Hallowed Halls

    David's Site



    Credits:

    Guest: David Streit

    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, 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