"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.

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.

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Website Links:

RSR232 – Craig Alvin – The Ultimate Step By Step Process For a Perfect Mix Every Time
RSR029 – Craig Alvin – Badass Mixer

https://www.craigalvin.com/

Instagram: @craigalvin

Additional podcast editing and production by:
Vlad Vasilcenko
Liz Hulitskaya

"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.

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.

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Website Links:

RSR209 – Colt Capperrune – Empowering Artists and Producing Guitar Driven Music In Nashville

Instagram: @coltcapperrune
YouTube: @ColtCapperrune

Additional podcast editing and production by:
Vlad Vasilcenko
Liz Hulitskaya

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.

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.

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Website Links:

https://airshowmastering.com

Facebook: @airshowmastering

Additional podcast editing and production by:
Vlad Vasilcenko
Liz Hulitskaya

"Keep it as simple as possible!" Join Lij Shaw and Shawn Lemon as they dive into the intricacies of mastering technology in the recording studio, sharing expert insights on streamlining workflows and maximizing productivity. From organizing files and navigating cloud storage solutions like Google Drive to leveraging email management techniques, this conversation is packed with essential tips for creative professionals. Discover the best practices for collaboration, the significance of effective systems, and how to adapt tech tools to fit your unique style. Tune in for a dynamic discussion that not only simplifies the tech chaos but also empowers you to elevate your music production game!

My guest today is Shawn Lemon, founder of The Digital Organizer, which helps individuals and businesses master their technology. A teacher at heart, Shawn has seen that the biggest reason people struggle with tech is a lack of understanding—something that’s easy to fall into with constantly evolving tools. Shawn and I go way back! We met ten years ago when I joined my first mastermind group. Every Monday morning, four of us gathered for breakfast to brainstorm and tackle each other’s new online business challenges. Since then, I’ve spent a decade hosting this podcast, while Shawn has grown his Digital Organizer business, allowing him to travel with his family and help clients organize their businesses.

So, what does this have to do with making records, you might ask? Well, just as we focus on creating great records in the studio, Shawn can help us focus on how to organize our document records, streamline studio workflows, and discover new ways to stay organized in our music-making process.

A special thank you to John Meese for making our original introduction.

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Website Links:

https://thedigitalorganizer.com/
https://thedigitalorganizer.com/rsr

Instagram: @thedigitalorganizer
Facebook: @TheDigitalOrganizer
LinkedIn: @the-digital-organizer @shawnlemon

Additional podcast editing and production by:
Vlad Vasilcenko
Liz Hulitskaya

"I mix in exclamation points!" Join host Lij Shaw as he dives into a vibrant conversation with Grammy and Emmy award-winning engineer Jamie Tate in this episode of Recording Studio Rockstars! With insights from his journey as the owner of The Rukkus Room in Nashville, Jamie offers a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the evolving landscape of country music and the artistry of mixing. They navigate the playful intersection of analog nostalgia and digital dynamism, sharing personal anecdotes and invaluable tips for home recording enthusiasts. With Jamie’s passion and expertise, you'll discover not only the emotional depth of music production but also the pioneering spirit of independent artists. Tune in for a sound adventure that’s sure to inspire your own creative journey!

My guest today is Jamie Tate, a Grammy and Emmy Award-winning recording engineer, mixer, producer, and the owner of The Rukkus Room in Nashville, TN. Jamie’s career in the studio world began as an intern at The Sanctuary Recording Studios, where he worked his way up to chief engineer. After The Sanctuary sold, Jamie honed his craft while working around the clock at Abtrax Recording Studios. By 2004, with 18 months of clients already booked, he took the leap and founded The Rukkus Room, which has since become one of Nashville’s most iconic recording spaces.

The Rukkus Room was designed by Gene Lawson of Lawson Microphones and is one of the last remaining purpose-built recording studios in Nashville. Spanning 8,000 square feet across two separate buildings, it offers unparalleled isolation for recording. Shortly after opening, Jamie recorded Jack Ingram’s #1 single “Wherever You Are” and several other top-five hits, cementing the studio’s reputation as a go-to destination for legendary and up-and-coming artists alike.

Jamie has mixed and recorded music for a stunning array of artists, including Thomas Rhett, Taylor Swift, Dustin Lynch, Jerrod Niemann, Maddie & Tae, Alan Jackson, Vince Gill, Alison Krauss, Miranda Lambert, John Prine, Rhett Akins, Sheryl Crow, Brooks and Dunn, and many more. His work has been featured on platinum-selling records, chart-topping singles, and critically acclaimed projects across genres.

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Website Links:

https://www.rukkusroom.com/

Instagram: @rukkusroom
Facebook: @therukkusroom
X: @rukkusroom

Additional podcast editing and production by:
Vlad Vasilcenko
Liz Hulitskaya

"Get the main menu music worked out!" In this captivating episode of Recording Studio Rockstars, host Lij Shaw sits down with the talented music director and game audio specialist, Steve Pardo. They dive into Steve's journey from jazz musician to game composer, sharing his insights on the creative process and collaboration in the industry. Steve passionately discusses how to get the main menu music just right, the magic of mixing in Dolby Atmos for gaming, and why the saxophone shines with guitar pedals. From Unreal Engine to Apple Logic Pro X, he offers tips on creating huge sounds in a small studio, all while highlighting the significance of live instruments in modern production. Don’t miss this lively conversation that blends nostalgia with cutting-edge techniques, and get inspired to embrace the future of music and gaming!

My guest today is Steve Pardo, a music director, and game audio specialist with over 15 years of experience crafting immersive music and sound for award-winning games and globally recognized franchises. Steve is the co-founder of SkewSound, Composer and Music Manager at ProbablyMonsters, and an active performing artist based in Nashville, TN.

Steve’s career began at the legendary Harmonix Music Systems, where he worked on iconic titles like Rock Band VR, Dance Central, and Fantasia: Music Evolved. He has since contributed to games such as Fortnite Festival, Cypher 007, Moonbreaker, and Signs of the Sojourner. His music also appears on platforms like Netflix, Adult Swim, and IFC, and he’s collaborated on cutting-edge projects involving generative and AI-driven music for companies like Mastercard, Warner Music, and Tribeca Film Festival.

A graduate of the University of Miami, Steve earned both a bachelor’s degree in Studio Music and Jazz and a master’s degree in Studio Jazz Writing, grounding his creative work in a rich foundation of jazz and orchestration.

Steve’s Nashville studio is equipped with a 7.1.4 Atmos system, boutique microphones, synthesizers, and more, allowing him to create very cool music in a cozy setting.

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Website Links:

https://www.stevepardo.com
https://soundofobjects.com/

Instagram: @stevepardo

Additional podcast editing and production by:
Vlad Vasilcenko
Liz Hulitskaya

Wanna get a big fat snare drum sound? In this dynamic episode of Recording Studio Rockstars, host Lij Shaw interviews music producer and engineer Charlie Waymire, the visionary behind Ultimate Studios Inc. From his roots as a drummer to mastering studio workflow in Los Angeles, Charlie shares his journey and the challenges he’s faced. They delve into achieving that big fat snare drum sound, the intricacies of selecting Roswell Pro Audio mics, and the importance of collaborating with clients in the studio. Charlie emphasizes the value of experimentation and understanding gear, all while rediscovering his passion for music creation. This episode is a treasure trove of insights for both aspiring musicians and seasoned engineers alike!

My guest today is Charlie Waymire, a music producer, recording engineer, and mixing engineer based in Los Angeles with a career that began behind the drum kit. As a drummer and musician, Charlie developed a passion for capturing the essence of sound, gradually transitioning into the world of audio production. His journey led him to establish Ultimate Studios, Inc., a place where he records, produces, and mixes music for artists across different genres.

Charlie's hands-on experience as a musician guides him as a producer and engineer, understanding the creative process from an artist’s perspective. This allows him to capture authentic performances and help guide artists in crafting their best work. As a career drummer, Charlie wanted Ultimate Studios, Inc. to have a great sounding and affordable drum room where he has had the pleasure of working with some of the best drummers in the world, including Chad Smith (Red Hot Chili Peppers), Ray Luzier (Korn), Oscar Seaton (Lionel Ritchie) and Steven Wolf (Dr Luke/Alicia Keys) to name a few.

With a focus on sonic quality and artistic collaboration, Charlie has built his reputation as a trusted partner for artists seeking professional recording and production services. His dedication to both the technical and creative sides of music production has made him sought-after in the Los Angeles music scene, committed to helping artists achieve their full potential.

But, he says, the real star of his studio is his dog, Delilah. She actually runs the show, and Charlie mainly makes coffee. 🙂

Special thanks to Matt McGlynn at Roswell Pro Audio for making our introduction.

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Website Links:

https://www.ultimatestudiosinc.com/
https://soundofobjects.com/

Instagram: @soundofobjects
TikTok: @soundofobjects

Additional podcast editing and production by:
Vlad Vasilcenko
Liz Hulitskaya

"It's all about the spirit, man." In this electrifying episode of Recording Studio Rockstars, host Lij Shaw reunites with the ingenious Brian Murphree, the mastermind behind Sound Porter Mastering. Together, they traverse Brian's remarkable journey from passionate musician to a celebrated mastering engineer, illuminating the vital role of sonic excellence in music production. Their conversation uncovers the fascinating evolution of video and photography, while diving deep into recording techniques, studio design, and acoustics. With a keen focus on the artistry of sound engineering, they dissect advanced methods like mid-side processing and the artistry behind the 'do no harm' philosophy in mastering. Rounding out the episode, Brian and Lij share war stories from the punk underground, blending nostalgia with invaluable insights for aspiring sound producers ready to make their mark.

My guest today is Brian Murphree, a seasoned mastering engineer and founder of Soundporter Mastering, based just south of Nashville. Brian’s career spans over 15 years in the mastering field, during which he’s dedicated himself to helping artists and mix engineers achieve their best possible sound. Since launching Soundporter in 2019, he’s built a client list that includes Grammy-winning producer Boo Mitchell, Melly Baldwin, touring drummer for Justin Bieber, and a range of other artists whose work has amassed hundreds of thousands of streaming plays. Brian’s approach centers on delivering professional-quality results while making mastering accessible for artists at any stage of their career.

Brian’s journey began with his own experience in bands, where he took on the mixing and mastering roles to bring underground artists' sounds to life, often on a tight budget. His supportive and collaborative approach makes him a trusted resource in the music community, and he’s passionate about helping clients get the most out of their mixes before they even reach the mastering stage. Brian has also played bass with the surf rock band Daikaiju and punk band Random Conflict, contributing to his deep understanding of the musical landscape.

You can hear Brians backstory on episode RSR227 and check out the Youtube playlist of cool music he has helped create in the show notes.

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watch more on youtube

Website Links:

RSR277 – Brian Murphree – How to Get Your Mix Ready for Mastering

https://www.soundporter.com/

Instagram: @brianmurphree1
Facebook: @soundportermastering
Youtube: @brianmurphree8023

Additional podcast editing and production by:
Vlad Vasilcenko
Liz Hulitskaya

Incremental progress leads to significant achievements! Join Lij Shaw as he interviews audio veteran Alex Ohana, who shares stories from a 35-year career. Alex reveals the power of embracing risk and reinvention, along with the importance of community in the audio world. He discusses his journey, from recording techniques to the evolution of technology, and offers insights into finding success in the music industry. This inspiring conversation delves into innovation, personal growth, and staying true to your creative vision.

My guest today is Alex Oana, an engineer, producer, and innovator originally from Minneapolis and now based in Los Angeles. Over a 30-year career, Alex has produced hundreds of records and earned 11 Minnesota Music Awards. In 1994, he purchased the former home of Twin/Tone Records to launch his own studio, City Cabin, in Minneapolis. In the early 2000s, Alex relocated to Los Angeles, where he focused on mixing and worked as a front-of-house engineer for Pharrell Williams and NER*D on global tours.

Alex has also held roles such as Global Sales Manager at Apogee Electronics and consultant for Vintage King Audio. As Vice President at Slate Digital, he co-created the groundbreaking Raven multitouch DAW controller. Later, he founded Audio Test Kitchen, an innovative online platform offering detailed comparisons of over 300 microphones and other audio gear. He is currently the Vice President of Marketing for Sound Vision Works.

Alex first joined us on episode RSR226, where he shared his full backstory. Today, we’ll dive into the latest in studio tech and production.

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Website Links:

https://www.audiotestkitchen.com/
https://www.soundvisionworks.com/
https://www.alexoana.com/

Instagram: @audiotestkitchen @soundvisionworks @alexoana 
Facebook: @audiotestkitchen @soundvisionworks @alexoana
YouTube: @AudioTestKitchen @SoundVisionWorks 

Additional podcast editing and production by:
Vlad Vasilcenko
Liz Hulitskaya

"You can do whatever you want." In this engaging interview, Lij Shaw sits down with Jason Livermore, co-owner of the Blasting Room studio, to explore Jason's transformative journey from aspiring musician to Grammy-winning producer. They discuss the studio's evolution, the significance of high-quality equipment, and the invaluable experience gained from working with interns. Jason delves into the intricacies of modern mixing techniques, the transition to digital, and the essentials of drum recording and mixing, highlighting the impact of acoustics, MIDI, and automation. Their conversation also covers the joys of learning new instruments and offers practical advice for aspiring engineers looking to thrive in the competitive world of music production.

My guest today is Jason Livermore who got his first snare drum at just three years old and eventually picked up guitar and bass but found his way back to drums, which he loved most. In junior high, he discovered punk rock, with Milo Goes to College as his first vinyl purchase. Jason played in bands throughout high school and college, even recording some of them himself. After college, he realized that recording would be a better path than selling beer for Miller. When ALL opened the Blasting Room in Fort Collins in 1994, Jason jumped at the opportunity and has been a key part of the studio ever since. In 2015, he became co-owner alongside Bill Stevenson, working on about 95% of the albums from the studio, including producing the Latin GRAMMY-winning record Solo D’Lira in 2023. Jason has also played drums for bands like Wretch Like Me, Drag the River, Bill The Welder, Soul City Missionaries, and The Virginia Sisters.

Special thanks to Brian Murphree for the introduction!

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Website Links:

Instagram: @jasonlivermore @theblastingroom
Facebook: @blastingroom

Additional podcast editing and production by:
Vlad Vasilcenko
Liz Hulitskaya