Lavalanche – “Poverty Of The Stimulus Full Length” (Mixing, Mastering) *Post/Prog Rock

First time working with Lavalanche, prog/post rock band from Athens. 9-Track full length album called Poverty Of The Stimulus.
The guys had already mixed their record elsewhere, but were not fully satisfied with the result, so they contacted me for a remix.
All instruments were already recorded, including real drums. What made the whole mixing process challenging was the fact that most effects (EQ, distortion, even delay effects in some cases!) were already printed on the tracks, so a lot of work had to be done to alter the character of each instrument and deliver a solid mix.
I was given full artistic freedom, which is always a great thing. For the chorus of the song “Mutation” I asked the guys of my band (Revolted Masses) to sing the words several times, so that I could create a choir with a “stadium-rock” feeling.
Decided to go for an LCR approach on guitars and minimum sample replacement on drums. What is also interesting about this session is that almost every track has either delay or reverb on it: there is even a track with reverb throws on the kick!
Last but not least, another example of an artist who chooses a dynamic approach on mastering over a squashed “commercial” one.

Mixed and Mastered during winter 2014.

New World Disorder – “Prometheus EP” (Production, Mixing, Mastering) *Metalcore

So, here we are once again working with New World Disorder, a metalcore band from Greece, this time for their upcoming EP called “Prometheus”. I have a strong relationship with this band and we have developed a personal workflow over the years.
This time though, everything was far more challenging, as I was given strict sonic references that I had to follow, without sacrificing the personal character of the band.
Used ENGL amps for the guitar tone and tried several things to enhance the mix, eg a layer of distorted snare sample to complement the original one, intense automation etc.
I also composed an orchestral part for the outro of the EP that the guys liked a lot. Overheads were recorded live on my studio. We also tracked choir and gang vocal parts.
The artwork was designed by Giannis “Remedy Art” Nakos.

Overall, an experience that taught me a lot.

Produced, Mixed and Mastered during the spring of 2014.