Production + RECORDING

All bands, established or otherwise, face fierce competition from one another. The internet gives you unparalleled exposure for your music, but when a million other bands are only a click away, it’s crucial that your tracks stand out.

Target client: bands ready to record an EP or album. 

If you want your album to shine, consider a full production at Grindstone Studio.

A producer external to the band is diplomatically placed to weed out any weak ideas, help choose the right songs, suggest new parts, and question structures. Getting great takes for the best tone and/or connection with the song is paramount - no amount of mixing can correct this.

If you want to move beyond self producing and work with a professional producer like Scott Atkins then Grindstone Studio is perfect for you. It is important to acknowledge the creative environment the studio provides, and the huge steps forward musicians can take by working with someone who can inspire confidence and offer a fresh and objective perspective.

MIXING

Getting a great sounding mix is the the ultimate quest for rock / metal bands.

Here at Grindstone, your songs will achieve the dynamics, weight, clarity and richness they deserve. For all forms of music, it's a vital step in the production chain and one that you cant afford to get wrong. It's a crowded and competitive world out there out there - aim high. If you want competitive mixes at competitive prices, get in touch.

Mastering

I master all of my own mixes and productions. If you like what you hear, get in touch.

I use analogue buss compression, tape simulation and careful limiting to get that polished, commercial sound. If you've had your album, EP or demo mixed elsewhere or even mixed it yourself, mastering can make or break your record. It’s essential it is done correctly in the right listening environment. Mastering can also be a last chance if you have a faulty mix, either with a stereo file or stems.
Whatever your situation, get in touch for options,

Vinyl mastering

Vinyl is now a common format for independent metal labels and i now offer specific non-clipped and less limited (less loud) versions of my masters specifically for vinyl replication. The limitations of the vinyl format mean the normal CD master may not translate as well as one specifically made for Vinyl.
 

Stem mastering

Sometimes mixes can turn out wrong, maybe your mixing engineer couldn’t reach your requested standards or maybe you did it yourselves. If you are having problems with your mix and feel like its not quite there, stem mastering can be a worthwhile step to take things up a level.
Stems are instrument groups: e.g. parts of drums drums, bass, rhythm guitars, lead guitars, keys, vocals. The mastering works with exports of these parts of the mix to enable a more detailed job than just working with a 2 channel final mix. Get in touch if this is what you might need.

Re-amping

Guitar and bass re-amping services are available through a variety of backline and microphone combinations. Getting great tone is often a mystery for many! Please get in touch for further information.