[Dana Nielsen]

Description

This engaging discussion delves into the intricacies of music production, focusing on hardware and plugins, particularly compressors and EQs. The participants highlight the benefits of using plugin versions of vintage gear and mastering EQ and compression techniques. They also discuss the challenges in the music industry, the role of music therapy in emotional expression, and the impact of AI in music production.

#MusicProduction #Plugins #Compressors #EQ #MusicTherapy

Q&A

What are some favorite plugins or gear that members have been using recently?

• Daniel mentioned that he has stopped searching for plugins and has found his favorites. He believes that the better you get at hearing compression and equalization, the better of a producer you become. He has been diving into different types of compression, such as upwards compression, downwards compression, and expansion. He also mentioned that saturation is a type of compression and tone that he appreciates.

What is the benefit of pushing every tool to its extremes?

• Pushing every tool to its extremes allows you to explore the full range of possibilities and discover unique sounds and effects. By pushing the limits of a plugin or piece of gear, you can uncover interesting textures, harmonics, and sonic characteristics that may not be immediately apparent at more conservative settings. It’s a great way to experiment and find your own signature sound.

What are the challenges and advantages of being a music freelancer in a competitive city like LA?

• Being a music freelancer in a competitive city like LA comes with both challenges and advantages. The competition can be intense, with many talented individuals vying for limited opportunities. It can be challenging to stand out and secure gigs or projects. However, being in a music hub like LA also provides access to a vibrant music scene, networking opportunities, and the chance to collaborate with top-notch professionals. It’s a city where creativity thrives, and if you can navigate the competition, it can offer exciting possibilities.

How does music therapy use music to address emotional and psychological issues?

• Charissa, a Board-certified Music Therapist, explains that Music therapy uses music as a therapeutic tool to address emotional, psychological, and physical issues. It can help individuals express and process their emotions, reduce stress and anxiety, improve mood and self-esteem, and enhance overall well-being. Music therapists use various techniques, such as playing instruments, singing, songwriting, and listening to music, to create a safe and supportive environment for healing and personal growth.

What are some recent projects Charissa has worked on as a session singer?

• Charissa has recently worked on projects such as the animated Disney movie ‘Wish’, where she provided vocals and collaborated with artists like Julia Michaels and Ariana Debose.

Chapters

00:26 Introductions

Participants introduce themselves and engage in casual conversation.

03:46 Hardware & Plugins

Discussion on hardware and plugins for recording and mixing, including compressors and EQs.

28:47 Exploring Plugins

Benefits of using plugin versions of vintage hardware gear and mastering EQ and compression techniques.

32:32 Understanding Compressors

Different types and modes of compressors, shaping dynamics, and the role of EQ.

37:00 Experimenting with Plugins

Pushing plugins to extremes, understanding sound characteristics, and comparing different compressors.

54:47 Music Industry Challenges

Competitive nature of the music industry, difficulty of breaking through, and impact of the pandemic.

58:57 Music Therapy

Using music therapy to express emotions, role of music in therapeutic settings, and connecting with clients.

64:30 Music Industry Work

Discussion about projects, vocalists, and union jobs in the music industry.

67:11 AI in Music

Concerns and experiences with AI in music production and session work.

71:27 Community Engagement

Encouragement to engage with the community, share music, and impressions of Sonarworks new AI voice plugin.

[David Maroul]

I just finished watching the zoom call replay. If you haven’t watched it I highly encourage you to do so. So much great information. Seriously.

Dana, I’m glad you broke it down in a comment but I want to add (though I feel like I’m typically not much of a group person) I felt unusually comfortable & at home watching all of you interact like a family. So real & authentic, with everyone sharing freely and knowledgeably. Really fun to watch and learn from.

I am honored and humbled to share this space with all of you.

Thanks for this hour of wonderful content. 🙏

Charissa, Happy Mothers Day~

@dana

@Dalliance

@JLEW

@-PT

@CMN

@smoothygroove

👽

[Stuart Roholt]

Hey David – that’s the problem with @dana – he makes you feel unusually comfortable! It’s a great hang – I hope you can make it next time👍🏻

[David Maroul]

😆 Thanks Stuart! I will def try to make it to the next one.

[Dana Nielsen]

@Dave and @smoothygroove thank you guys so much!! You, and the crew at large here, are just the coolest n’ sweetest!

Thanks so much for the kind words, and for checkin out the Zoom (live or replay) – that was so fun!

PS – also, sorry for the 3min of me doing nothing at the beginning of the video hahahaha. Didn’t realize that was there when I posted it. In hindsight it makes sense as Zoom started recording the moment I initiated the Zoom meeting rather than when I admitted the first guest. Anywho — anyone else watching the replay, skip ahead 3 minutes to avoid watching me silently looking at a computer monitor 😂🤦🏻‍♂️