How Deep Is Your Love?
Whenever I’m about to head into a large mix project that could span several days into a few weeks or more, I tend to fall back on old favorites for inspiration in the days leading up to it. Today was the first example: Jonatha Brooke - Steady Pull
In particular, the track “How Deep Is Your Love” blows my mind every time I hear it. Loads of ear candy, but still grounded with rock solid vocals and killer groove by Larry Aberman.
This album is easily one of the most influential for me as a mix engineer. The sounds are killer and each element is treated as if it’s the backbone of the sonic palette; without it, the whole thing falls apart. The tunes are definitely slick, but at the same time, retain a very raw and natural character as if they weren’t processed at all. It certainly doesn’t hurt that Bob Clearmountain had a major hand in the production of this record, not mention his role as the recording and mix engineer.
Some of my best mixes have been the result of mimicking Clearmountain’s style of starting with the vocal first, rather than building up from the drums/bass. It’s a great way to ensure that the vocal doesn’t disappear behind the rest of the band…not always the desired effect (especially for some rock records), but for singer/songwriter work, it’s a great method.
