#218 - Dana Nielsen Part 1 - The Art of Studio Diplomacy

In this episode, Ben and Carl dive into the delicate art of handling mix revisions and collaborating with artists. After a brief hiatus, they return with fresh insights on:Why mix revisions aren't personal attacks on your skills or tasteThe balance between respecting the artist's vision while providing professional guidanceHow to handle situations when artists' requests conflict with their stated goalsThe importance of clear communication and expectation-setting from the startWhy checking in early and often prevents major revision headaches laterTips for working with artists who communicate in different languages or stylesLearn more about Carl's Studio Evolution Mastermind - https://branding.carlbahner.com/a/2147995182/bmyFf8p5Download our free guide: "The Future-Proof Mixing Engineer: 8 Essential Skills for 2024 and Beyond" - https://mpe-ebook.benwallick.com/future-proof-mixingConnect with us:Secret Sonics - https://www.instagram.com/secretsonicsBen - https://www.instagram.com/benwallickmusic/Carl - https://www.instagram.com/carlbahner/Thanks to our sponsors!Progressions with Travis Ference - https://www.progressionspodcast.com/listenLearn more:https://www.benwallick.com/https://www.carlbahner.com/This episode with edited by Gavi Kutliroff - https://www.instagram.com/pleasant_peasant_music/

In this candid episode, Ben and Carl open up about their personal struggles with burnout and overwhelm. This episode offers a raw, honest look at the realities of burnout in the audio industry, reminding listeners they're not alone in these struggles.Topics we discuss:The challenges of balancing work, family, and other life stressorsManaging communication overload across multiple platformsStrategies for dealing with burnoutDownload our free guide: "The Future-Proof Mixing Engineer: 8 Essential Skills for 2024 and Beyond" - https://mpe-ebook.benwallick.com/future-proof-mixingConnect with us:Secret Sonics - https://www.instagram.com/secretsonicsBen - https://www.instagram.com/benwallickmusic/Carl - https://www.instagram.com/carlbahner/Thanks to our sponsors!Progressions with Travis Ference - https://www.progressionspodcast.com/listen“The Platinum Pitch: Proposals Clients Can’t Refuse” FREE CLASS Register today: https://branding.carlbahner.com/offers/eL9EmmUL/checkoutLearn more:https://www.benwallick.com/https://www.carlbahner.com/This episode with edited by Gavi Kutliroff - https://www.instagram.com/pleasant_peasant_music/

In this enlightening follow-up, Matt Huber dives deeper into the collaborative nature of audio engineering, sharing insights on collective learning, building community, and evolving mixing techniques. Discover how fostering relationships with fellow engineers can accelerate your growth, why a competitive mindset holds you back, and Matt's latest revelations about multiband processing on the mix bus.Topics we discuss:How Matt and his collaborators deep-dive into topics like loudness for streaming platformsThe unexpected benefits of viewing other engineers as peers rather than competitorsMatt's innovative "5% better" exercise for group mixing sessionsWhy understanding the 'why' behind plugin choices is crucial for intentional mixingMatt's evolving perspective on multiband processing and how to use it more effectivelyLearn more about Matt - https://matthuber.co/Connect with Matt - https://www.instagram.com/mattjhuber/Download our free guide: "The Future-Proof Mixing Engineer: 8 Essential Skills for 2024 and Beyond" - https://mpe-ebook.benwallick.com/future-proof-mixingConnect with us:Secret Sonics - https://www.instagram.com/secretsonicsBen - https://www.instagram.com/benwallickmusic/Carl - https://www.instagram.com/carlbahner/Thanks to our sponsors!Progressions with Travis Ference - https://www.progressionspodcast.com/listen“The Platinum Pitch: Proposals Clients Can’t Refuse” FREE CLASS Register today: https://branding.carlbahner.com/offers/eL9EmmUL/checkoutLearn more:https://www.benwallick.com/https://www.carlbahner.com/This episode with edited by Gavi Kutliroff - https://www.instagram.com/pleasant_peasant_music/

In this illuminating episode, mixing engineer Matt Huber shares his deep dive into the complex world of loudness for streaming platforms. Discover the surprising factors that influence perceived loudness on Spotify, the unexpected benefits of strategic quietness, and how to craft mixes that translate beautifully across all mediums. Whether you're a mixing novice or a seasoned pro, you'll gain valuable insights on balancing artistic integrity with the demands of the modern streaming landscape.Topics we discuss:Why brightness, not just compression, plays a crucial role in perceived loudness on streamingThe unexpected impact of vocal, kick, and snare levels on how "loud" a track feelsHow Spotify's normalization changes based on playlist contextStrategies for communicating with clients about loudness without compromising mix qualityGenre-specific loudness "targets" that help maintain musical impact and excitementLearn more about Matt - https://matthuber.co/Connect with Matt - https://www.instagram.com/mattjhuber/Download our free guide: "The Future-Proof Mixing Engineer: 8 Essential Skills for 2024 and Beyond" - https://mpe-ebook.benwallick.com/future-proof-mixingConnect with us:Secret Sonics - https://www.instagram.com/secretsonicsBen - https://www.instagram.com/benwallickmusic/Carl - https://www.instagram.com/carlbahner/Thanks to our sponsors!Progressions with Travis Ference - https://www.progressionspodcast.com/listen“The Platinum Pitch: Proposals Clients Can’t Refuse” FREE CLASS Register today: https://branding.carlbahner.com/offers/eL9EmmUL/checkoutLearn more:https://www.benwallick.com/https://www.carlbahner.com/This episode with edited by Gavi Kutliroff - https://www.instagram.com/pleasant_peasant_music/

If you could start your audio career over in 2024, what would you do differently? Ben and Carl explore this thought-provoking question, sharing hard-won wisdom on striking the delicate balance between artistic growth and business savvy in today's music industry landscape. Discover practical strategies for developing your craft while building the entrepreneurial skills needed for long-term success. Whether you're just starting out or looking to level up your career, this episode offers a roadmap for thriving as a creative professional in the modern audio world.Topics we discuss:⁠⁠Why mastering your craft alone isn't enough to build a sustainable career⁠How to cultivate your artistic community while developing business acumen⁠The unexpected benefits of embracing social media for audio professionalsWhy lifelong learning is crucial for both creative and entrepreneurial growthPractical steps for finding your unique balance between art and commerceDownload our free guide: "The Future-Proof Mixing Engineer: 8 Essential Skills for 2024 and Beyond" - https://mpe-ebook.benwallick.com/future-proof-mixingConnect with us:Secret Sonics - https://www.instagram.com/secretsonicsBen - https://www.instagram.com/benwallickmusic/Carl - https://www.instagram.com/carlbahner/Thanks to our sponsors!Progressions with Travis Ference - https://www.progressionspodcast.com/listen“The Platinum Pitch: Proposals Clients Can’t Refuse” FREE CLASS Register today: https://branding.carlbahner.com/offers/eL9EmmUL/checkoutLearn more:https://www.benwallick.com/https://www.carlbahner.com/This episode with edited by Gavi Kutliroff - https://www.instagram.com/pleasant_peasant_music/

In part two of our conversation with mastering legend Dave McNair, Dave offers a treasure trove of practical advice for aspiring mastering engineers. Hear why lifelong learning is the key to audio excellence and how to develop your critical listening skills to create timeless mixes and masters. Get ready for a masterclass in audio wisdom that will transform the way you approach your craft!Topics we discuss:⁠Why mastering to vinyl might be the ultimate audio challenge (and how Dave plans to tackle it in retirement)The surprising power of broad EQ curves in crafting a polished, professional soundHow to recreate the magic of analog tape compression in the digital realmDave's secret weapon for taming harsh sibilance (hint: it's not a traditional de-esser)Why studying classic recordings from the mid-90s is crucial for developing your "internal reference"and more!To learn more about Dave - https://davemcnairmastering.com/Download our free guide: "The Future-Proof Mixing Engineer: 8 Essential Skills for 2024 and Beyond" - https://mpe-ebook.benwallick.com/future-proof-mixingConnect with us:Secret Sonics - https://www.instagram.com/secretsonicsBen - https://www.instagram.com/benwallickmusic/Carl - https://www.instagram.com/carlbahner/Dave - https://www.instagram.com/mcsnare/Thanks to our sponsors!Progressions with Travis Ference - https://www.progressionspodcast.com/listen“The Platinum Pitch: Proposals Clients Can’t Refuse” FREE CLASS Register today: https://branding.carlbahner.com/offers/eL9EmmUL/checkoutLearn more:https://www.benwallick.com/https://www.carlbahner.com/This episode with edited by Gavi Kutliroff - https://www.instagram.com/pleasant_peasant_music/

In this episode of Secret Sonics, mastering engineer extraordinaire Dave McNair shares his deep insights into the world of music production, mixing, and mastering. From the importance of taste in mastering to the technical nuances that can make or break a track, Dave offers invaluable advice for producers at all levels. Whether you're just starting out or are a seasoned pro, this conversation is packed with wisdom to elevate your craft. Tune in to discover how to blend artistic intuition with technical precision, and why mastering is more crucial than ever in today's music landscape.Topics we discuss:Why your aesthetic intuition is just as important as your technical skillsThe small adjustments that can have a big impact on the final sound of your tracksAnalog vs. Digital Why mastering always starts with mid-side EQAlways prioritizing with the vocalLeaving headroom (and not lying about it ;))To learn more about Dave - https://davemcnairmastering.com/Download our free guide: "The Future-Proof Mixing Engineer: 8 Essential Skills for 2024 and Beyond" - https://mpe-ebook.benwallick.com/future-proof-mixingConnect with us:Secret Sonics - https://www.instagram.com/secretsonicsBen - https://www.instagram.com/benwallickmusic/Carl - https://www.instagram.com/carlbahner/Dave - https://www.instagram.com/mcsnare/Thanks to our sponsors!Progressions with Travis Ference - https://www.progressionspodcast.com/listen“The Platinum Pitch: Proposals Clients Can’t Refuse” FREE CLASS Register today: https://branding.carlbahner.com/offers/eL9EmmUL/checkoutLearn more:https://www.benwallick.com/https://www.carlbahner.com/This episode with edited by Gavi Kutliroff - https://www.instagram.com/pleasant_peasant_music/

In this second part of our interview with Dana Nielsen, we dive deep into the world of vocal production. Dana shares his expertise on working with singers, from capturing great performances to the intricacies of vocal editing and comping. He offers invaluable insights into creating a comfortable environment for artists, reading the room, and knowing when to push for better takes or call it a day. Dana's approach emphasizes the importance of preparation, artist-first mentality, and the ability to adapt to different workflows and personalities in the studio.Topics we discuss:Dana's approach to vocal production and recordingTechniques for getting the best performances from singersThe importance of preparation in studio sessionsNavigating different artist personalities and workflowsVocal comping and editing techniquesBalancing technical skills with interpersonal awarenessWorking with high-profile artists like Adele and Ozzy OsbourneTo learn more about Dana - https://www.dananielsen.com/Download our free guide: "The Future-Proof Mixing Engineer: 8 Essential Skills for 2024 and Beyond" - https://mpe-ebook.benwallick.com/future-proof-mixingConnect with us:Secret Sonics - https://www.instagram.com/secretsonicsBen - https://www.instagram.com/benwallickmusic/Carl - https://www.instagram.com/carlbahner/Dana - https://www.instagram.com/danafrio/Thanks to our sponsors!Progressions with Travis Ference - https://www.progressionspodcast.com/listen“The Platinum Pitch: Proposals Clients Can’t Refuse” FREE CLASS Register today: https://branding.carlbahner.com/offers/eL9EmmUL/checkoutReferences:The Avett Brothers: "No Hard Feelings" - https://youtu.be/aaU2HvRhCPw?si=sQNcd8NR3Be9r2OYLearn more:https://www.benwallick.com/https://www.carlbahner.com/This episode with edited by Gavi Kutliroff - https://www.instagram.com/pleasant_peasant_music/

Grammy-nominated recording engineer and producer Dana Nielsen reveals the crucial "soft skills" that elevate great engineers above the rest. Drawing from his experiences working with industry giants like Rick Rubin, Rihanna, Adele, Linkin Park, Red Hot Chili Peppers (and countless more), Dana shares insights on reading the room, adapting to artists' needs, and navigating studio dynamics. He offers practical advice on creating the right studio vibe, knowing when to speak up, and balancing creative exploration with real-world constraints. This episode is packed with valuable lessons for both aspiring and seasoned professionals on becoming an indispensable collaborator in the music production process.Topics we discuss:The importance of being a "good hang" in the studioAdapting to different artist personalities and preferencesKnowing when to speak up and when to stay quiet in various studio rolesBalancing creative exploration with time and budget constraintsThe value of mentorship and learning from experienced professionalsNavigating the delicate balance between technical and interpersonal skillsTo learn more about Dana - https://www.dananielsen.com/Download our free guide: "The Future-Proof Mixing Engineer: 8 Essential Skills for 2024 and Beyond" - https://mpe-ebook.benwallick.com/future-proof-mixingConnect with us:Secret Sonics - https://www.instagram.com/secretsonicsBen - https://www.instagram.com/benwallickmusic/Carl - https://www.instagram.com/carlbahner/Dana - https://www.instagram.com/danafrio/Thanks to our sponsors!Progressions with Travis Ference - https://www.progressionspodcast.com/listen“The Platinum Pitch: Proposals Clients Can’t Refuse” FREE CLASS Register today: https://branding.carlbahner.com/offers/eL9EmmUL/checkoutLearn more:https://www.benwallick.com/https://www.carlbahner.com/This episode with edited by Gavi Kutliroff - https://www.instagram.com/pleasant_peasant_music/

In this second part of our interview with Nick Nagurka, we dive deeper into the human side of Nick’s approach to live band recording. Nick shares insights on creating a comfortable environment for artists, managing the pressure of performance, and maintaining the delicate balance between technical excellence and capturing raw, authentic moments. From fostering trust to handling unexpected challenges, this episode offers a candid look at the interpersonal dynamics that shape the recording process.Topics we discuss:Creating a comfortable and trusting environment for artistsBalancing the casual vibe of a "retreat" with the focus needed for recordingManaging the pressure of performance, especially with video recordingThe importance of flexibility and taking chances in the recording processTechniques for transitioning from rehearsal mode to performance modeThe value of capturing continuous takes and handling unexpected momentsBalancing old-school recording techniques with modern post-production toolsTo learn more about Nick - https://www.nicknagurkamusic.com/Download our free guide: "The Future-Proof Mixing Engineer: 8 Essential Skills for 2024 and Beyond" - https://mpe-ebook.benwallick.com/future-proof-mixingConnect with us:Secret Sonics - https://www.instagram.com/secretsonicsBen - https://www.instagram.com/benwallickmusic/Carl - https://www.instagram.com/carlbahner/Nick - https://www.instagram.com/thenickThanks to our sponsors!Progressions with Travis Ference - https://www.progressionspodcast.com/listen“The Platinum Pitch: Proposals Clients Can’t Refuse” FREE CLASS Register today: https://branding.carlbahner.com/offers/eL9EmmUL/checkoutLearn more:https://www.benwallick.com/https://www.carlbahner.com/This episode with edited by Gavi Kutliroff - https://www.instagram.com/pleasant_peasant_music/