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Peel back the glamour of the professional recording world. Guests from the world of audio for music, film, games, restoration, and more share their insights on how they made their journey, how they survive, their advice on the real things including wins, losses, working with other people, money, and career advice.
Hosted by audio engineer Matt Boudreau.
The Working Class Audio Podcast - Navigating the World of Recording with a working class perspective.
Hosted by audio engineer Matt Boudreau.
The Working Class Audio Podcast - Navigating the World of Recording with a working class perspective.
586 Episodes
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This is part 2 of a discussion Matt had with multi-platinum mixer and engineer Richard Chycki whose clients include such rock royalty as Rush, Aerosmith, Dream Theater, Skillet, Mick Jagger, Alice Cooper, Pink and many more.In This Episode, We Discuss:ManagementNetworking: Building Relationships for SuccessCultural Transition: From Canada to the U.S. Music SceneThe Rush Connection: Networking and OpportunitiesNavigating the World of Immersive Audio TechnologiesFuture Plans and Networking in NashvilleLinks and Show Notes:Part 1 InterviewRich's SiteMatt's Rant: Auto PilotCredits:Guest: Richard ChyckiHost/Engineer/Producer: Matt BoudreauWCA Theme Music: Cliff TruesdellThe Voice: Chuck Smith
In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes mixing engineer, producer and composerJade Alysse Berry, whose path to mixing was sparked by a life‑changing health event and a deep love for music. Jade shares practical insights on creativity, collaboration, and setting clear boundaries with clients.In This Episode, We Discuss:How a health crisis redirected Jade’s career toward audio engineeringChallenges and politics of the music industryCollaborative dynamics with partner Bob Horn The creative process of mixingSetting boundariesUnderstanding client expectationsEffective communicationLinks and Show Notes:Jade on InstagramMatt's Rant: The Home StudioCredits:Guest: Jade Alysse BerryHost/Engineer/Producer: Matt BoudreauWCA Theme Music: Cliff TruesdellThe Voice: Chuck Smith
Matt is joined by grammy winning engineer Tom Camuso who has worked with Lenny Kravitz, Blondie, Steve Earl as well as a number of commercial, television and film projects. Tom is also the Chief Engineer at The Les Paul Recording Studio in Holly wood.In This Episode, We Discuss:Preserving Les Paul's LegacyLos Angeles vs. New YorkCracking the Preservation CodeWeatherEducationLibrary of CongressLinks and Show Notes:Tom's SiteLes Paul StudioMatt's Rant: Economic ReevaluationCredits:Guest: Tom CamusoHost/Engineer/Producer: Matt BoudreauWCA Theme Music: Cliff TruesdellThe Voice: Chuck Smith
Matt is joined by multi-platinum mixer and engineer Richard Chycki whose clients include such rock royalty as Rush, Aerosmith, Dream Theater, Skillet, Mick Jagger, Alice Cooper, Pink and many more.In This Episode, We Discuss:NAMM ExperienceCurrent State of Immersive AudioMoving to Nashville: Reasons and PlansEarly Musical Journey and Transition to EngineeringThe Shift from Musician to EngineerAdapting to Technological Changes in AudioThe Future of Atmos and Immersive AudioArtist Reactions to Immersive MixingThe Evolution of Atmos TechnologyLearning from Major ArtistsNavigating the Music IndustryFinancial Strategies in Music ProductionThe Importance of NetworkingMixing Classic Records in AtmosLinks and Show Notes:Rich's SiteMatt's Rant: The ExpensesCredits:Guest: Richard ChyckiHost/Engineer/Producer: Matt BoudreauWCA Theme Music: Cliff TruesdellThe Voice: Chuck Smith
Matt welcomes Grammy Nominated producer /engineer/mixer Joel Weldon Willis.In This Episode, We Discuss:Building a Home StudioEarly Experiences in Music ProductionTransitioning to Freelance and Indie Music SceneCreative Approaches to Music ProductionNavigating Financial Challenges in the StudioRecording Techniques and Live SessionsLessons Learned in the StudioFreelancing and Renting Studio SpacesCommunity and Collaboration in Music ProductionBalancing Promotion and AuthenticityThe Impact of Grammy NominationsAdapting to Client Needs and CommunicationRemote MixingHandling Criticism and Professional GrowthThe Importance of Collaboration Over CompetitionLinks and Show Notes:Joel's SiteMatt's Rant: InspirationCredits:Guest: Joel Weldon WIllisHost/Engineer/Producer: Matt BoudreauWCA Theme Music: Cliff TruesdellThe Voice: Chuck Smith
Matt welcomes Producer /engineer/mixer and film composer Sanford Parker. As an artist he’s performed and released albums with extreme heavy and industrial bands like Black Cross Hotel, Corrections House, Mirrors for Psychic Warfare and Minsk. Throughout the years he’s collaborated with members of Sonic Youth, Ministry, Napalm Death and Neurosis as well as producing and mixing albums for Darkthrone, Voivod, Brutal Truth, Pelican, YOB, Hide, Youth Code, Wovenhand, Rwake, Local H and many others. TakeawaysSanford opened his studio in March 2020, just before the pandemic.He prefers working with independent artists and punk music.Chicago's music scene is affordable compared to other major cities.Managing overhead is crucial for running a successful studio.Sanford transitioned to mixing in the box for efficiency.He values genuine relationships with artists over bureaucracy.The pandemic shifted his work focus back to mixing.The flexibility of working remotely with clients.Learning to navigate financial discussions with bands.Independent music often allows for quicker decision-making.Links and Show Notes:Sanford's SiteMatt's Rant: Your JourneyCredits:Guest: Sanford ParkerHost/Engineer/Producer: Matt BoudreauWCA Theme Music: Cliff TruesdellThe Voice: Chuck Smith
In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes back GRAMMY-winning recording engineer and producer Steve Chadie live from the AudioScape booth at NAMM 2026 to talk about recording bands. Steve has worked with WIllie Nelson, Los Lonely Boys, Wilco, and the Supersuckers.In This Episode, We Discuss:Mic placement and monitoring.The bleedBand dynamicsFood and energy levelsExpectationsCreative ruts.Being invisibleHeadphone mixesLess substance abuseLinks and Show Notes:Steve on WCA #245Steve on WCA #487Steve's SiteMatt's Rant: The PeopleCredits:Guest: Steve ChadieHost/Engineer/Producer: Matt BoudreauEditing: Anne-Marie PleauWCA Theme Music: Cliff TruesdellThe Voice: Chuck Smith
Matt welcomes producer/engineer/composer Fran Cathcart. Fran having just moved to the Bay Area from New York recounts his journey in studio ownership, working with Herbie Hancock, and facing down serious challenges that would make most throw in the towel, yet he still keeps going. In This Episode, We Discuss:Studio OwnershipHerbie HancockEarly Digital RecordingDivorceCovidGetting SuedStressMoving to the Bay AreaLinks and Show Notes:Fran's SiteMatt's Rant: Client CommunicationCredits:Guest: Fran CathcartHost/Engineer/Producer: Matt BoudreauWCA Theme Music: Cliff TruesdellThe Voice: Chuck Smith
In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes back Mastering Engineering Joe Caithness. Joe has worked on mastering the soundtrack music for games such as Borderlands, and Tekken, the soundtracks for the Netflix movie Close, bands such as Don Martin 3 and Palooka 5.In this episode we discuss Pro Audio Minimalism.In This Episode, We Discuss:Pro audio minimalism focuses on efficiency and workflow.Post-pandemic, many have adapted to home studios.Stripping down gear can lead to better productivity.Quality of work is not determined by the amount of gear.The bell curve illustrates the journey of audio engineers.Social media can exacerbate gear obsession.It's important to focus on skills rather than equipment.Minimalism can reduce stress in the creative process.Finding balance in audio engineering is crucial.Personal interests outside of audio can influence spending. Being debt-free allows for better control over finances.Intentional communication can streamline workflows and reduce confusion.Minimalism in workflow can lead to increased efficiency.Decluttering can help identify unnecessary subscriptions and expenses.Applying minimalism to business practices can enhance focus and productivity.The thrill of the hunt can lead to unnecessary clutter if not managed.Intentional equipment purchases can prevent buyer's remorse.Every purchase has a domino effect on workflow and finances.Embracing whimsy can make minimalism enjoyable and fulfilling.Sharing resources can benefit others and reduce personal clutter.Links and Show Notes:Joe's SiteJoe on WCA #329Matt's Rant: Credits:Guest: Joe CaithnessHost/Engineer/Producer: Matt BoudreauWCA Theme Music: Cliff TruesdellThe Voice: Chuck Smith
In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes back Producer, Mixer & Mastering Engineer Justin Gray. Based in Toronto, Canada, Justin has worked on projects for Snoop Dogg, Brandy, Nicky Youre, Mother Mother, Arkells, Jamie Fine, Lola Brooke, Upsahl, and The Sheepdogs.In this conversation, Justin Gray discusses his album 'Immersed', exploring the creative process, technical aspects of immersive audio, and the importance of community and collaboration in music production. He shares insights on funding, marketing strategies, and the role of social media in promoting his work. The discussion also touches on the challenges of balancing family life with artistic pursuits and the significance of believing in oneself as an artist.In This Episode, We Discuss:Innovative immersive audioEarly surround experimentsCommunity-driven collaborationCanadian arts fundingValue of physical mediaSocial media promotionImpact of recognitionBalancing family supportBelief in the workEngineer and artistLinks and Show Notes:Justin's Site Links to all streaming PlatformsBand CampImmersive Audio AlbumJustin on WCA #451Matt's Rant: Forming Your Own BubbleCredits:Guest: Justin GrayHost/Engineer/Producer: Matt BoudreauWCA Theme Music: Cliff TruesdellThe Voice: Chuck Smith
In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes back producer, engineer, mixer, multi-instrumentalist, singer and, songwriter, Alan Evans. Alan is of course well known as a member of his band Soulive. He's also been a past guest on WCA #133 and 328.Matt Boudreau and Alan Evans reflect on the past year and share insights on creativity, health, and the music industry. They discuss the importance of recharging creatively, embracing technology, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle to ensure longevity in their careers. The duo also emphasizes the significance of simplicity in music production, the role of album artwork, and the power of community and connection in fostering creativity. As they look ahead to 2026, they express excitement for new projects and the journey of self-discovery in their artistic endeavors.In This Episode, We Discuss:Reflections on the past yearCreativity and staying inspiredRecharging creativelyHealth, wellness, and career longevitySimplicity in music productionThe role and value of album artworkCommunity and connection as creative fuelLooking ahead to 2026New projects on the horizonSelf-discovery through artistic workLinks and Show Notes:Al's SiteOrb AudioMicrocosm AudioAl on WCA #133Al on WCA #328Matt's Rant: What's Inspiring MeCredits:Guest: Alan EvansHost/Engineer/Producer: Matt BoudreauWCA Theme Music: Cliff TruesdellThe Voice: Chuck Smith
In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes back producer Michael Beinhorn who has worked with The Red Hot Chili Peppers, Soundgarden, Herbie Hancock, Korn, Marilyn Manson, Weezer, Ozzy Osbourne, Hole, Cuco, Aerosmith & Violent Femmes. Michael originally appeared on WCA #029 back in 2015. In This Episode, We Discuss:Music productionRemote productionPre-productionMusic critiqueMainstream musicAI in musicUnique voicesMusic industryCreativity in musicMusic technologyArtist developmentRisk-taking in musicMusic analysisRecording industryListening setupCollaborationLinks and Show Notes:Michael's SiteMichael on WCA #029Matt's Rant: Auto PilotCredits:Guest: Michael BeinhornHost/Engineer/Producer: Matt BoudreauWCA Theme Music: Cliff TruesdellThe Voice: Chuck Smith
In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes mixer, producer, engineer, writer, and performer Stephen DeAcutis. Stephen has worked with Vanilla Fudge, Gladys Knight, Travers and Appice, Corey Glover, and Cyndi Lauper.In This Episode, We Discuss:Owning Your TimeEmbracing Old and NewCelebrating the New GenerationSolving Audio ProblemsWorking From HomeCommunicating with MusiciansGetting It Right At The SourcePerforming LiveLinks and Show Notes:Stephen's SiteStephen on InstagramMatt's Rant: Staying PositiveCredits:Guest: Stephen DeAcutisHost/Engineer/Producer: Matt BoudreauWCA Theme Music: Cliff TruesdellThe Voice: Chuck Smith
In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes mastering and lathe cutting engineer Natalie Bibby who works at AIR Studios in the U.K.. Natalie has worked with Kraftwerk, Bring Me The Horizon, Lola Young, Jimmy Eat World, The Vaccines, Lewis Capaldi, GIRLI, and CATTYShe's also led a world-class mastering workshop at Peter Gabriel’s Real World Studios, UK.In This Episode, We Discuss:Early musical influencesStarting in recording & mixingUniversity training & goalsMetropolis internship lessonsMoving into masteringLive cuts & direct-to-discHalf-speed mastering overviewLearning & mentorship insightsAIR StudiosValue of attended sessionsManaging client expectationsHybrid mastering workflowsHow mastering engineers listenCommon mixing problemsMusic Producers GuildChallenges for studiosAIR’s cutting reputationVinyl cutting processMastering vs. cuttingAmerican mastering mystiqueLinks and Show Notes:AIR StudiosMusic Producers GuildMatt's Rant: How we present ourselvesCredits:Guest: Natalie BibbyHost/Engineer/Producer: Matt BoudreauWCA Theme Music: Cliff TruesdellThe Voice: Chuck Smith
In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes back guitarist, producer, and mixing/mastering engineer Alex Crescioni to talk about Extreme Metal production. Alex is known for his work with Burton C. Bell, Deverauxx, and Siglos.In This Episode, We Discuss:Extreme MetalTechniquesSoundsRoom ToneBusinessSurvivalLetting GoLinks and Show Notes:Alex’s SiteAlex on LinkedinAlex on InstagramAlex on WCA #333Matt's Rant: Spread the WorkCredits:Guest: Alex CrescioniHost/Engineer/Producer: Matt BoudreauWCA Theme Music: Cliff TruesdellThe Voice: Chuck Smith
In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes back producer/engineer/mixer and record label owner Don Setaro. Matt and Don get into a deep dive discussion of the re-issue process for former Pavement drummer, Gary Young's album "Hospital For The Chemically Insane". Former WCA guests Dan Johnson and Justin Perkins chime in to talk about their role in the process. Enjoy.In This Episode, We Discuss:PavementGary YoungDetective WorkRestorationTape RescueMastering from CDRe- IssueKeeping the VibeLinks and Show Notes:Gary on BandcampIAC RecordsMatt's Rant: StructureCredits:Guest: Don Setaro /Dan Johnson/Justin PerkinsHost/Engineer/Producer: Matt BoudreauWCA Theme Music: Cliff TruesdellThe Voice: Chuck Smith
In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes back producer/engineer and mixer Ken Sluiter to delve into the intricate process of stereo rebuilds for Atmos mixing. They discuss the challenges of finding and organizing original material, the importance of matching to comparison masters, and the unique aspects of each project. Ken shares insights on the ingestion process, the role of research in understanding original recordings, and the potential of AI tools in audio restoration. The discussion also touches on the future of mixing and the evolving landscape of music production. Enjoy.In This Episode, We Discuss:Stereo rebuilds for Atmos mixing.The process involves gathering original assets and recreating mixes.Each project is unique, requiring a tailored approach.Matching to a comparison master is crucial for accuracy.Researching the original recording can provide valuable insights.AI tools can assist in stem separation but have limitations.Finalizing mixes involves careful listening and adjustments.The future of audio mixing may involve more AI and technology.Understanding the original recording process is key to successful rebuilds.Links and Show Notes:Ken on WCA #166Matt's Rant: Music Expo/AES/NAMMCredits:Guest: Ken SluiterHost/Engineer/Producer: Matt BoudreauWCA Theme Music: Cliff TruesdellThe Voice: Chuck Smith
In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes back Dan Johnson of Audio Archiving Services and Catherine Vericolli of Central Audio Archiving to do a deep dive into the world of audio archiving, preservation, and restoration. In This Episode, We Discuss:Analog TapesAnalog MachinesModular Digital MultitracksDAT MachinesDASH MachinesPro DigiRetrospectMezzoLinks and Show Notes:Links to Danhttps://www.audioarchivingservices.com/https://www.workingclassaudio.com/wca-405-with-dan-johnson/Links to Catherine https://www.centralaudioarchiving.com/https://www.workingclassaudio.com/wca-035-with-catherine-vericolli/https://www.workingclassaudio.com/wca-403-with-catherine-vericolli/Matt's Rant: This AI ThingCredits:Guest: Dan Johnson & Catherine VericolliHost/Engineer/Producer: Matt BoudreauWCA Theme Music: Cliff TruesdellThe Voice: Chuck Smith
In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes back John Cuniberti who produces, engineers, mixes and masters records for many artists including most notably Joe Satriani, Sammy Hagar, The Dead Kennedys, and Chicken Foot. John originally appeared WCA #005 back in 2014 and returns to do a deep dive into his OneMic recording concept. -EnjoyIn This Episode, We Discuss:OneMic SeriesDynamicsAcousticsPlacementTempo2 Track as Multi-TrackRibbon MicsLinks and Show Notes:OneMIc on YouTubeJohn's SiteShiny Eyes StudioMatt's Rant: Focus of Your AttentionCredits:Guest: John CunibertiHost/Engineer/Producer: Matt BoudreauWCA Theme Music: Cliff TruesdellThe Voice: Chuck Smith
In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes Grammy Winning producer/engineer/mixer Gena Johnson who has worked with Chris Stapleton, Jason Isbell, Brandi Carlile, and John Prine. Enjoy.In This Episode, We Discuss:Leave your ego at the doorMake people feel comfortableListen to the artistLabels are business partnersWord of mouth workFeminine energy in productionWomen in the industryClassical voice training for 12 yearsInternship at Welcome 1979Learned tape machines and solderingAssisting at Nashville studiosFirst number one recordWorking at RCA Studio ARewiring Studio A intensivelyMentor Michael Wagner's influenceChampions Vance Powell and Daryl ThorpWalls painted with glitterKeep overhead lowGood attorney and manager combinationLinks and Show Notes:Gena's WebsiteGena on InstagramVance Powell on WCAMatt Ross-Spang on WCADarrel Thorpe on WCAMatt's Rant: Sonic Intrusion RevisitedCredits:Guest: Gena JohnsonHost/Engineer/Producer: Matt BoudreauWCA Theme Music: Cliff TruesdellThe Voice: Chuck Smith
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