The course was split up into a series of seminars, practical (hands on) projects,
observation (Michael doing his thing) and one to one time where we got to play some of our own mixes to not only Michael but the
rest of the group. The group was made up of 13 young professionals from all over the world and had participants from Brazil, Spain, Canada, Switzerland, England, Germany and other places.
A good place to start would be to discuss what I hoped to get out of this week with Michael and the other participants. One thing I want to be clear about is that I didn’t expect any quick fixes or shortcuts to better mixes. In all my time as an engineer I have had the pleasure of assisting some great people but in particular, one engineer and one producer have taught me more in the few days a year I work with them than I would otherwise learn in a year on my own. This is what initially attracted me to this sort of masterclass and, as such, it is safe to say I expected to a lot out of it. This expectation was exceeded effortlessly by the end of the second day.
So, what did I feel I got out of it? Well, this has been one of the most inspirational things I have every done in my own little journey I call a career. Spending the time working with such like minded people in such stunning surroundings, hanging out and chatting with Michael (who is one of the friendliest guys you will ever meet), listening to his never ending supply of jokes, industry stories, experience and wisdom in what was simply one of the best weeks of my life. Even after 35 years Michael's love and passion for the music is still brutally evident every time he stands between the speakers and listening to this passion translate through his mixes is something that will be with me forever. I have returned from France with a much better understanding of what I am trying to do and hundreds (and hundreds) of new tricks, ideas and concepts that I will myself need to properly explore and integrate into my working. In fact, I don't think I could even go back to 'the old way' now.
Thank you very much to Victor, Max and Stan (the man!) at La Fabrique and MWTM, the other 12 guys and, of course, Michael. It will take me the next few years to fully digest everything you shared with us but already I feel better connected with the music and am loving what is coming out of my speakers. I have met some great new friends from all over the world and I look forward to progressing through this cruel and brutal industry along side you all.
So, what coming up?
Well, I am right back to it. This month will see the conclusion of a few big projects I have been working on this year. In particular
Kat Healy’s album is creeping closer to completion. It’s in great shape and Kat and Graeme have been spending a lot time this year making sure it is totally right for her first release. The Project: DSB record is also getting mixed this week. This one is pure prog rock and I can’s wait till people start hearing it. Also, the
Das Contras record is picking up again with some of the final guitar and vocals being done this week before the horns later in the month. All of this is super exciting and I will detail further about it all soon.
In the meantime, have you checked out
The Island by
Michael MacLennan? If not, do so now and keep an eye out for his debut single ‘To The Fire’ out later this month.
Garry Boyle –
CP Productions
Ps - Coolshzer Voolshzer is how Manuel (from Spain) pronounces Culture Vulture. It is the second funniest thing I have ever heard in my life. The funniest was him trying to say John Mayer.
