We have a group coming into the studio tonight to record a final track for the short demo that they did with us a few weeks back and it reminded me of the conversations that we had with them the first time they were in.

They were discussing with us about their experience of recording a previous demo at a different, somewhat more “professional” or “experienced” studio in the area.  However, the discussion wasn’t one of pleasure and sentimentality, it was one of disbelief.  You see, their experience at the other studio was not one where they were guided and nurtured as young artists.  They were told how they should sound.  The bass player admitted that he had quite a long discussion (i.e. argument) with the engineer/producer about what his bass sound should be, and what the “perfect” bass sound actually is.  This, in our opinion, is no way to develop a relationship and grow a successful product.

Think of it this way.  A gardener growing tomatoes does not expect that every tomato will be the exact same shade of red or grow into what he thinks is the perfect, plump, round tomato shape.  Every tomato is unique, and each one will develop into the perfect version of itself.  All that is needed is the right kind of wisdom, nurture, and care.

Now, granted, the producer in question certainly has experience and expertise in the field.  There is no denying that.  However, we feel that our job as engineers and producers is not to force our opinions or our perception of perfection onto every client.  It is to produce a product that the client can be excited about and proud of.  In order to do that, we make it our philosophy to nurture and encourage their ideals, not our own.