Interview with Freddie:
Q: Describe the most common type of work you do for your clients.
A: Recording, Mixing, Production from A-Z.
Q: Tell us about your studio setup.
A: I operate in a single room at the moment. There is sufficient acoustic treatment for decent recordings and I have various methods for referencing my mixes to ensure I'm on the right track. I have a modest selection of different microphones, a twin channel tube preamp that sounds pretty on some sources... A nice strong audio interface from RME keeps the place running smoothly.
Q: What's your typical work process?
A: I like to discuss the project with the artist first and ensure that we both have a good understanding of what the vision is, and what result we are looking to achieve. For productions, I will start with a guide track and everything else will be based around that. I like to sketch out various ideas immediately afterwards and then have the artist point to the direction they like.
Q: What do you bring to a song?
A: Choosing the right combination of instrumentation, and arranging parts that all have a place in the spectrum for each song. I'll help create the sound stage necessary by creatively placing elements in the mix.
Q: Can you share one music production tip?
A: Ensure that you have a good reference for the project you are working on. It is very important that you are aiming for something that will appeal to your target audience. Listen, compare and then critique your own work in a constructive fashion.
Q: If you were on a desert island and could take just 5 pieces of gear, what would they be?
A: Computer, UFXII, MIDI keyboard, HD650's, SE2200a II
Q: What advice do you have for a customer looking to hire a provider like you?
A: Make sure that you are patient, and willing to understand that the processes involved are often more complex and time consuming than expected. Ensure that before any recording, the situation has been optimised in order to get the best performance, and the best recording possible.
Q: What's the biggest misconception about what you do?
A: That I can do magic and fix bad recordings or terrible performances.
Q: What do you like most about your job?
A: Getting to work/chill/chat with a lot of very cool and talented singers and musicians.
Q: Analog or digital and why?
A: They both have their place. I use a combination when necessary.
Q: What's your strongest skill?
A: Recording, followed by Arrangement and Mixing.
Q: What type of music do you usually work on?
A: All types - I have been involved with a lot of different genres. If I feel that I cannot meet the clients expectations, I will happily recommend a number of experienced producers I am in touch with.
Q: What other musicians or music production professionals inspire you?
A: Mastering engineers I have studied from and keep in contact with like Ian Shepherd, provide deep and valuable insights into getting the best results out of a mix. I am a huge fan of certain EDM artists such as Above & Beyond and Deadmau5. Classical music; in particular, J.S. Bach, Chopin and R.Schumann are some of my favorite composers.