Hello, I’m James – a sound engineer based in Brighton & Hove. I developed my skills out of my passion for recording my own music and that of my friends. As it turns out, I’m really good at it.
With over 10 years’ experience as a professional recording and mix engineer, I have developed my recording techniques to harness the unique power of every musician and let their personality shine through in their performance. Over the years I have attuned my ear to create polished and professional sounding recordings and mixes, with a specialism in recording drums.
Whatever challenges you’re facing in your creative project, I’ve almost certainly experienced them myself, and can definitely relate to the highs and lows of trying to carve out a decent sounding mix until 4am! I have encountered and overcome many of the technical and creative challenges that musicians face during the recording and mixing process, and can therefore save you time and resources, offering advice and solutions to common problems that arise in the music production process. My experience, expertise, and affable manner puts musicians at ease, as I guide them through the process and offer feedback and support along the way. This creates a positive and productive recording experience for the band, which can translate into a more polished and professional final product.
When not busy working with others I create my own music and videos under the name Cat Fire Radio, draw cartoons which get posted to my website, make documentaries, play in bands, write blogs and generally strive to refine and advance my skills. I am highly creative, disciplined in my methods and logical in my thinking. I believe that organisation and preparation are key to meeting any challenge and that honesty is the highest virtue.
In 2007 my band travelled to Chicago to work with Steve Albini, whose technical expertise, contempt for mainstream orthodoxy, and that drum sound have long been a huge inspiration. I have returned to Chicago several times since, including to make the documentary “Recording Drums With Steve Albini”, which can be viewed here. Those experiences were formative of my passion for audio excellence that I continue to strive for every day.
I have carried out freelance audio duties for the BBC and other media post-production companies, created sound effects for Mattel toys, and recorded, mixed and mastered live events across the country. I also worked as chief Music Technician at the University of Sussex where I developed a real passion for helping students achieve their creative goals through clear communication of complex hardware and software systems. As such I can be a sounding board, guide, or advisor to you, offering you the support you need to help you to develop your own skills.
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