Recording Studio Rockstars

Get ready to rock the world of immersive audio with award-winning producer and mixing engineer Justin Gray! In this episode, we explore his journey from bassist to pioneer in Dolby Atmos and Sony 360, uncovering spatial sound's creative and technical magic. Justin shares his innovative recording techniques, the importance of capturing music in 3D space, and the evolving role of musicians in the process. We also discuss the challenges of funding music in Canada, how to get started with Atmos in a home studio, and the power of remote collaboration. Plus, Justin drops some golden advice for aspiring producers on embracing their creative identity. Don't miss this one, Rockstars!

Get access to FREE mixing mini-course: https://MixMasterBundle.com

My guest today is Justin Gray, an award-winning producer, mixing, and mastering engineer based in Toronto, Canada. Justin is a leader in immersive audio music production, working with artists, producers, and labels worldwide to bring their music to life in Dolby Atmos and Sony 360 Reality Audio.

He has worked across a wide range of musical styles with artists like Snoop Dogg, Olivia Rodrigo, Brandy, Carlos Santana, Arkells, The Sheepdogs, Valley, Mother Mother, Jann Arden, Blackbear, Christina Perri, Orville Peck, and many more.

Justin runs his own studio, Justin Gray Sound & Immersive Mastering, one of the first Dolby Atmos and Sony 360RA-certified music studios in Canada. He's also a faculty member at Humber College, where he teaches audio production, composition, and music performance.

Thank you to Matt Boudreau for the introduction!

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Listen to the podcast theme song "Skadoosh!" https://solo.to/lijshawmusic

Listen to this guest's discography on Apple Podcasts: https://music.apple.com/ca/playlist/justin-gray-dolby-atmos-mixes/pl.u-kv9lRk5TW6eJev

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In this episode, Lij Shaw chats with Ben Sabin, founder of Trace Audio, about his journey from Shangri-La Studio with Rick Rubin to wiring up some of the best studios in the biz. They dive deep into the mystical world of cables, the magic of patch bays, and why good studio wiring is like rock 'n' roll feng shui — get it right, and everything just flows! Ben shares cool stories from his intern days, working with legends like Neil Young, and the hard-earned lessons of studio troubleshooting. They break down balanced vs. unbalanced audio, why your patch bay might be sabotaging your creativity, and how to future-proof your studio setup. Plus, if you've ever wondered how to avoid a spaghetti mess of cables, this episode is for you!

Get access to FREE mixing mini-course: https://MixMasterBundle.com

My guest today is Ben Sabin. He got his start at Shangri-La with Rick Rubin, where he saw top artists and engineers work at the highest level. He then split time between Shangri-La and Groove Masters, helping rewire tie lines, patchbays, and converters—sparking his passion for cabling and studio workflow. He also worked alongside legendary studio tech Pat Schneider on servicing and repairs.

In 2018, he helped LA producer Colin Cunningham set up patchbays and streamline his growing outboard gear collection. He then worked in live sound, gaining hands-on troubleshooting experience. In 2019, he founded Trace Audio, focusing on CAPI gear and custom cabling, relocating to Nashville, where it's now a full-time business serving top industry clients.

Ben also rewired my studio, The Toy Box Studio, and I quickly saw how much we could learn from him—so I had to invite him on the podcast to talk about creatin the best setup for your studio. In fact, you're hearing our voices right now through Trace Audio cables!

THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS!

http://UltimateMixingMasterclass.com

https://usa.sae.edu/

https://www.izotope.com Use code ROCK10 to get 10% off!

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https://www.phantomfocus.com/category-s/149.htm

https://www.makebelievestudio.com/mbsi Get your MBSI plugin here!

https://RecordingStudioRockstars.com/Academy

https://www.thetoyboxstudio.com/

Listen to the podcast theme song "Skadoosh!" https://solo.to/lijshawmusic

Please check out the list of Trace Audio clients! https://traceaudio.com/pages/clients

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CLICK HERE FOR COMPLETE SHOW NOTES AT: https://RSRockstars.com/508

Rockstars, get ready to crank it up! This episode, I'm hanging with Adam Krinsky of Bellows Studio, diving into touring, studio life, and keeping that work-life balance tight. We talk studio humidity (yep, it matters!), live recording chaos, and dream studio setups!

Get access to FREE mixing mini-course: https://MixMasterBundle.com

My guest today is Adam Krinsky, starting his music career in Minneapolis, at the Institute of Production and Recording. While still a student, he recorded and mixed an album for The Alarmists, gaining local recognition. After graduating, he worked as an assistant engineer at Master Mix Studios under Grammy-winning Tom Tucker and later started teaching at the Minneapolis Media Institute and touring as a FOH mixer for artists like Mason Jennings, Iris Dement, and Dave Simonett. Today, he runs Bellows Studio in St. Paul and mixes live for Trampled by Turtles. Whether in the studio or on the road, he's always mixing.

Adam Krinsky has been a guest of the podcast on RSR307 where you can hear his backstory.

THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS!

http://UltimateMixingMasterclass.com

https://usa.sae.edu/

https://www.izotope.com Use code ROCK10 to get 10% off!

https://www.native-instruments.com Use code ROCK10 to get 10% off!

https://www.adam-audio.com/

https://www.phantomfocus.com/category-s/149.htm

https://www.makebelievestudio.com/mbsi Get your MBSI plugin here!

https://RecordingStudioRockstars.com/Academy

https://www.thetoyboxstudio.com/

Listen to the podcast theme song "Skadoosh!" https://solo.to/lijshawmusic

Listen to this guest's discography on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/71uDzwTG14iEN7SrrGGEdo?si=838b90172e3241fd

If you love the podcast, then please leave a review: https://RSRockstars.com/Review

CLICK HERE FOR COMPLETE SHOW NOTES AT: https://RSRockstars.com/507

"AI will never touch live musicians." Tim Lauer shares his journey working on a variety of albums and TV shows, highlighting how feedback from music supervisors shapes the final sound. He talks about his innovative use of reverb, effects, guitar pedals, and real-time processing to enhance recordings, emphasizing the collaborative nature of music creation. Tim also dives into how sampling and synthesizers are essential tools in modern music production, and discusses the intricate art of arrangement and orchestration, especially the roles musicians play in the studio. He explores the evolving landscape of music with AI and the future of live performances, all while stressing the importance of personal fulfillment and joy in making music.

Get access to FREE mixing mini-course: https://MixMasterBundle.com

My guest today is Tim Lauer, a versatile musician, producer, and arranger. He has played on albums by Taylor Swift, The Civil Wars, Cheap Trick, Joan Baez, and more, and arranged strings for Dolly Parton, Smashing Pumpkins, and Shawn Mendes. Tim has produced cast recordings for shows like Nashville, Greenleaf, Big Sky, and Zoey's Extraordinary Playlist. Recently, he worked on Amazon's The Bondsman, Sony's Patsy and Loretta, and Netflix's Country Comfort.

He's also part of the dream pop band Bien, with millions of streams and 1.5 million monthly listeners, and serves as musical director for NPR's No Small Endeavor. Tim first joined us on RSR172.

Thank you to Glenn Rosenstein and Loren Francis for the introduction!

THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS!

http://UltimateMixingMasterclass.com

https://usa.sae.edu/

https://www.izotope.com Use code ROCK10 to get 10% off!

https://www.native-instruments.com Use code ROCK10 to get 10% off!

https://www.adam-audio.com/

https://www.phantomfocus.com/category-s/149.htm

https://www.makebelievestudio.com/mbsi Get your MBSI plugin here!

https://RecordingStudioRockstars.com/Academy

https://www.thetoyboxstudio.com/

Listen to the podcast theme song "Skadoosh!" https://solo.to/lijshawmusic

Listen to this guest's discography on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7vbOMZzOi478USUr54FPtL?si=db2b0060b6fe4d5c

If you love the podcast, then please leave a review: https://RSRockstars.com/Review

CLICK HERE FOR COMPLETE SHOW NOTES AT: https://RSRockstars.com/506

"AI can't produce anything we haven't already heard." Chuck Zwicky and Lij Shaw discuss how AI is changing music production and songwriting, highlighting the importance of human elements and collaboration in the creative process while exploring the balance between technology and artistic expression. Chuck offers insights on mixing, emphasizing the value of interaction and the significance of live feedback in crafting music. The conversation also includes personal anecdotes and advice for aspiring producers.

Get access to FREE mixing mini-course: https://MixMasterBundle.com

My guest today is Chuck Zwicky, a Manhattan-based engineer, writer, and producer with a diverse discography. Chuck has worked with iconic artists like The Rembrandts, Reggie Watts, Soul Asylum, Prince, and Information Society, as well as emerging talents. His sun-soaked mixing HQ reflects his unique approach to mixing, from the gear he uses to the plugins he designs himself.

Chuck likes to bring together the audio artist and scientist through his techniques. This is Chuck's second time on the show — he first joined us in episode RSR260.

THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS!

http://UltimateMixingMasterclass.com

https://usa.sae.edu/

https://www.izotope.com Use code ROCK10 to get 10% off!

https://www.native-instruments.com Use code ROCK10 to get 10% off!

https://www.adam-audio.com/

https://www.phantomfocus.com/category-s/149.htm

https://www.makebelievestudio.com/mbsi Get your MBSI plugin here!

https://RecordingStudioRockstars.com/Academy

https://www.thetoyboxstudio.com/

Listen to the podcast theme song "Skadoosh!" https://solo.to/lijshawmusic

Listen to this guest's discography on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/6m08mI58QrvO8e97BrilPi?si=f0ab12ca4019468d

If you love the podcast, then please leave a review: https://RSRockstars.com/Review

CLICK HERE FOR COMPLETE SHOW NOTES AT: https://RSRockstars.com/505

"Metaphors are essential in plugin design!" Bill talked about Native Instruments, managing new products at iZotope, the importance of good speakers in the studio, how AI will help your sonic perspective, and using Ozone, RX, and the Catalyst plugins.

Get access to FREE mixing mini-course: https://MixMasterBundle.com

My guest today is Bill Podolak, a Senior Product Manager at iZotope by Native Instruments. Bill has had the privilege of managing the past two versions of Ozone 10 and 11 along with RX 11 and their new Catalyst Series - Plasma, Aurora, and Cascadia. He is also a musician and music producer and makes tracks in his spare time. His wife is also a singer-songwriter, and they make music together. Thank you to Dave Godowsky for the introduction!

THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS!

http://UltimateMixingMasterclass.com

https://usa.sae.edu/

https://www.izotope.com Use code ROCK10 to get 10% off!

https://www.native-instruments.com Use code ROCK10 to get 10% off!

https://www.adam-audio.com/

https://www.phantomfocus.com/category-s/149.htm

https://www.makebelievestudio.com/mbsi Get your MBSI plugin here!

https://RecordingStudioRockstars.com/Academy

https://www.thetoyboxstudio.com/

Listen to the podcast theme song "Skadoosh!" https://solo.to/lijshawmusic

Listen to this guest's discography on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/4zUBC1bygkBypno6yiYcEU?si=3f4deed105b94924

If you love the podcast, then please leave a review: https://RSRockstars.com/Review

CLICK HERE FOR COMPLETE SHOW NOTES AT: https://RSRockstars.com/504

"Artists should be in control of their destiny." Renowned mastering engineer Alan Douches discussed his extensive experience at West Westside Music, offering insights into the significance of immersive audio formats like Atmos and their creative potential for artists. He addressed challenges in archiving both analog and digital formats, the transformative potential of blockchain technology, and how Web3 can help indie musicians monetize their work. Additionally, he explored the role of NFTs, AI, and the importance of community in supporting artists' journeys.

Get access to FREE mixing mini-course: https://MixMasterBundle.com

My guest today is Alan Douches, a mastering engineer, CEO, and founder of West West Side Music with over 15,000 mastering credits. Alan has worked with a stunning roster of artists, including Sufjan Stevens, Converge, Mastodon, Chelsea Wolfe, Lucy Dacus, My Chemical Romance, Fall Out Boy, The Dillinger Escape Plan, LCD Soundsystem, and many more.

He's been instrumental in defining the sound of independent music, always championing DIY artists, and is now leading the way in bringing ATMOS production and mastering to indie music. Alan is also exploring the cutting edge of blockchain technology with his Web3 startup.

This is Alan's second appearance on the podcast—he was previously on episode RSR092. Thanks to Jesse Cannon for our original introduction!

THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS!

http://UltimateMixingMasterclass.com

https://usa.sae.edu/

https://www.izotope.com Use code ROCK10 to get 10% off!

https://www.native-instruments.com Use code ROCK10 to get 10% off!

https://www.adam-audio.com/

https://www.phantomfocus.com/category-s/149.htm

https://www.makebelievestudio.com/mbsi Get your MBSI plugin here!

https://RecordingStudioRockstars.com/Academy

https://www.thetoyboxstudio.com/

Listen to the podcast theme song "Skadoosh!" https://solo.to/lijshawmusic

Listen to this guest's discography on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1gTFsTwGaGIAhiCLTpDuoB?si=359193d09d634d9b

If you love the podcast, then please leave a review: https://RSRockstars.com/Review

CLICK HERE FOR COMPLETE SHOW NOTES AT: https://RSRockstars.com/503

"I've never once used MIDI." Craig talked about the evolution of audio engineering, the transition to video podcasting, and the rich musical history of Muscle Shoals. Craig shares insights about his Grammy-winning work and the unique characteristics of his studio, Noble Steed, the unique UA console he acquired, and his current projects, including mixing for country artist Anna Voss. He touches on the evolving sound of country music, highlighting a shift towards more pop and psychedelic influences, and the technical challenges faced in audio engineering.

Get access to FREE mixing mini-course: https://MixMasterBundle.com

My guest today is Craig Alvin, an award-winning audio engineer based in Muscle Shoals, Alabama. Over 30 years, Craig has worked with many artists, including Hanson, Little Big Town, Amy Grant, Vanessa Carlton, Will Hoge, Andrew Belle, Brittany Howard, and many others. He won two Grammys for his engineering on Kacey Musgraves' Golden Hour album in 2019 and has contributed to Musgraves' follow-up albums Star-Crossed and nominated for a Grammy this year for best engineered non-classical for Deeper Well.

Craig's work has earned him a stellar reputation for his ability to capture compelling sounds live in the studio and his sonic aptitude as a mix engineer. He has also been a guest on the show on episodes RSR029 and RSR232.

We also created a free video to show you his ultimate snare-mixing trick, which you can find in the show notes at UltimateMixingMasterclass.com. This helped my mixes tremendously, and we hope it can help yours, too! So please check it out.

THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS!

http://UltimateMixingMasterclass.com

https://usa.sae.edu/

https://www.izotope.com Use code ROCK10 to get 10% off!

https://www.native-instruments.com Use code ROCK10 to get 10% off!

https://www.adam-audio.com/

https://www.phantomfocus.com/category-s/149.htm

https://www.makebelievestudio.com/mbsi Get your MBSI plugin here!

https://RecordingStudioRockstars.com/Academy

https://www.thetoyboxstudio.com/

Listen to the podcast theme song "Skadoosh!" https://solo.to/lijshawmusic

Listen to this guest's discography on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/6BoLzjNA3x4A9rRFeWNA4Q?si=321d29271d724cdd

If you love the podcast, then please leave a review: https://RSRockstars.com/Review

CLICK HERE FOR COMPLETE SHOW NOTES AT: https://RSRockstars.com/502

"Atmos mixes are crushing my stereo mixes!" Colt talked about upgrading his mixing studio to Atmos, DIY construction, studio ergonomics, mixing on headphones, huge snare sounds, growing a Youtube channel, and why the new Mac Mini is right for you.

Get access to FREE mixing mini-course: https://MixMasterBundle.com

My guest today is Colt Capperrune, a producer, mix engineer, and mastering engineer with 21 years of experience in the music industry. Colt is also a talented session guitarist, and passionate advocate for artist development. In recent years, he's gained recognition as a social media influencer, sharing invaluable insights and tutorials through his popular YouTube channel.

Colt produced his first record at 19 and has since achieved Top 40 on Billboard, multiple #1s on iTunes and Amazon charts, and has worked with countless artists to turn raw ideas into polished, professional productions. His expertise extends to Dolby Atmos mixing, and he's recently built a state-of-the-art Atmos-equipped studio to deliver immersive audio experiences, taking his productions to the next level.

Beyond the studio, Colt is committed to empowering artists, often showcasing his process of transforming simple worktapes into chart-worthy productions on his website and YouTube.

You can hear Colt's previous interview and backstory at RSR209.

THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS!

http://UltimateMixingMasterclass.com

https://usa.sae.edu/

https://www.izotope.com Use code ROCK10 to get 10% off!

https://www.native-instruments.com Use code ROCK10 to get 10% off!

https://www.adam-audio.com/

https://www.phantomfocus.com/category-s/149.htm

https://www.makebelievestudio.com/mbsi Get your MBSI plugin here!

https://RecordingStudioRockstars.com/Academy

https://www.thetoyboxstudio.com/

Listen to the podcast theme song "Skadoosh!" https://solo.to/lijshawmusic

Listen to this guest's discography on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/33rmdc0r1kt1O64NSLEdHJ?si=6484711793a44259

If you love the podcast, then please leave a review: https://RSRockstars.com/Review

CLICK HERE FOR COMPLETE SHOW NOTES AT: https://RSRockstars.com/501

Join host Lij Shaw as he dives into the sonic journey of audio engineering with Dave Glasser, founder of Airshow Mastering, revealing the secrets behind mastering timeless records like those of the Grateful Dead. In this episode of Recording Studio Rockstars, Dave shares his rich 35-year experience—from tape transfers using the Plangent Process to his days at NPR—while exploring the delicate balance of preserving the essence of live music and adapting to modern audio standards. Tune in for insights on the intricacies of mastering jazz records, the evolution of sound quality, and the magic of Phil Lesh's iconic bass. Whether you're a seasoned engineer or just starting out, Dave's passion and curiosity will inspire you to elevate your own audio projects.

Get access to FREE mixing mini-course: https://MixMasterBundle.com

My guest today is David Glasser, founder and chief engineer at Airshow Mastering.

David has over 35 years of experience in audio engineering and has mastered thousands of records, including more than 80 GRAMMY nominees. He's a three-time nominee himself, earning two Grammys for mastering and restoration work on the Anthology of American Folk Music and Screamin' and Hollerin' the Blues: The Worlds of Charley Patton.

David's career began with the Boston Symphony Orchestra, followed by eight years of recording and production for NPR. He founded Airshow in 1983 and transitioned to full-time mastering in 1990. In 1997, he expanded to Boulder, Colorado, and later built a new state-of-the-art facility in 2016, where he continues to lead a busy mastering practice.

Special thanks to Matt Boudreau for the introduction! And this episode is dedicated to the memory of Phil Lesh.

THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS!

http://UltimateMixingMasterclass.com

https://usa.sae.edu/

https://www.izotope.com Use code ROCK10 to get 10% off!

https://www.native-instruments.com Use code ROCK10 to get 10% off!

https://www.adam-audio.com/

https://www.phantomfocus.com/category-s/149.htm

https://www.makebelievestudio.com/mbsi Get your MBSI plugin here!

https://RecordingStudioRockstars.com/Academy

https://www.thetoyboxstudio.com/

Listen to the podcast theme song "Skadoosh!" https://solo.to/lijshawmusic

Listen to this guest's discography on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0YqgLkpCEH5Toiybhl73S4?si=6ab393990ad44695

If you love the podcast, then please leave a review: https://RSRockstars.com/Review

CLICK HERE FOR COMPLETE SHOW NOTES AT: https://RSRockstars.com/500