Canal Irreal Session

This Spring I had the privilege of working with Canal Irreal on a new LP. Being a huge fan of their first record, and since they're all longtime friends, it was a treat to be in on the process of making this one. Scott Plant will be mixing the record, and Jonah Falco is on board to master. On the main day of tracking, ComEd decided to shut down power to our neighborhood for six hours! Luckily the band took it in stride and we played a few hands of rummy while waiting for the game on signal.

Riesgo LP Session

 In December 2021 I had the first session in a long time at Secret Chamber. Riesgo, whom I'd selfishly hoped would put out an LP for a long time, reached out to see if we could work together. We sorted out the protocols, and came up with a plan. Tracking all instruments and vocals took place on one day. As of this writing, the mixes are being finalized. Can't wait for this one to come out!

Permanent Residue Tape

Keeping up with recent releases coming out of Secret Chamber: As described in a previous post we got together to record last fall with these guys, and now the songs are seeing the light of day. Vince Miller, now also of EXEDO, plays drums.

Jarochicanos

I got to do something a little different yesterday, as far as recording goes. Jarochicanos reached out to get a song recorded that has lyrics written in response to the Chicago Teachers' Union strike which is still ongoing as of this writing. The play a style called Son Jarocho, and performed as an ensemble, arranging themselves around the mics for the best balance between instruments and voices. I don't usually get to use stereo techniques like this coincident pair setup. A refreshing change of pace.

A Busy Start to Fall

The fall of 2019 is shaping up to be busy, now that the studio space is done and word is getting out. I tracked and mixed six songs for a new band featuring Jake Levee of Canadian Rifle, who is among the first punks I met after moving to Chicago 23 years ago. Even though he is playing bass in this band (whose name is in the process of being changed) he brought over this Music Man HD130 which I sold to him circa 2007 and has been his main amp in Canadian Rifle ever since. It has gotten some serious road wear since Jake took over ownership, and has had the transformers and speakers replaced along with a number of other repairs. Every time I see the Rifle play I get a twinge of regret for selling it - it always sounds amazing and held up the bargain for the recording. 

Apart from great songs, good vibes and excellent playing, Jake and Kate would like to remind us all of what is really important for a successful recording session:

In the next month I will be recording the new hardcore band Dog Flashback, and working on a new record for Primitive Teeth. I also have several projects in the works that are still being finalized. That's a lot of bags of chips in my future.