Tip# 1: Rehearse only the songs that you'll
be recording for at least 2 days before the session. For clean starts,
use an 8 beat count-off instead of a 4 beat count-off, with the last
two beats silent. (Example: 1 2 3 4, 1 2 - - )
Tip# 2:
Practice the songs straight through, including intros, endings, and
dynamics. Work out all your solos before you get to the studio.
Tip# 3:
If needed, put on new strings and drum heads at least 2 days before
the session. Bring extra batteries, strings, and cables, just in case.
Tip# 4:
Get a good night's sleep and make sure everyone is in a good mood before
the session. Don't party. " Drugs and Drinking " Some
people play better when they're smashed, some don't. Check with the
rest of the group to see which category you fit into. Bring friends
if you feel more comfortable playing to an audience.
Tip# 5:
Start the songs cleanly and wait till the tape is rolling before turning
up your volume (unless we've gated your instrument). Don't talk, play,
or move for a count of eight after you finish a take. Wait for the last
notes to die away completely. Use your volume knob to fade out at the
end of a song.
Tip# 6:
Don't jam or play between takes or songs. Either tune up or sit quietly.
Goofing off just wastes everybody's time.
Tip# 7:
You may have to change your normal amp settings to get a better sound
on tape. Sometimes your stage settings don't work in the studio and
we may have to experiment to get your sound back - even to the point
of switching amps or going directly into the board.
Tip# 8: If
you screw up, don't panic, but point it out. Most of the time, we can
punch it in later. If one song isn't happening, forget that song and
move on to another song, or we'll take a short break. Don't bother with
"I'm sorry" or "I'll get it this time." You're just
putting more pressure on yourself. Screwups happen. Just relax and try
it again. Recording is very stressful - don't make it any harder on
yourself. If you feel yourself getting tense about a song, take a break.
A break after every couple of songs can help a lot. Be open to suggestions
and changes. "Screw-ups" sometimes turn out great. Maybe you
didn't hit the note you wanted, but the note you hit may be better.
Tip# 9:
After the final session, everybody usually wants a rough mix. Go ahead
and enjoy it that night and the next day, then put it away. Get away
from the music for a while, or you won't be able to hear clearly when
you mix. Everybody should take a 2 or 3 day break (or longer) before
the mixdown session to rest their ears. Listen to groups you like, and
try to get a feel for their sound and their mixes.
Tip# 10:
Before the mixdown session, play the rough cassette (with or without
the band there) and make notes on every song. Is it similar in sound
to groups you like? Try to pinpoint the differences. Need more bottom
on the kick? Less reverb on the vocal? Vocals too loud or soft? More
edge on the bass? Move the lead guitar more to the left or right? Before
you start the mixdown, we'll go over your notes and try to get the sound
you want.
Tip# 11:
When you're mixing down, you want a finished product that's as good
as any pre-recorded material. Listen to the whole song, not just your
part.
