John links up with Snarky Puppy founder and band leader Michael League to talk about how he wrote, recorded and produced the band’s latest record ‘Empire Central’, as well as works from Varijashree Venugopal and a new project, Ellipsis. 

Michael League is an American producer, multi-instrumentalist, and founder of jazz fusion ensemble Snarky Puppy. Now with a reputation as one of the most innovative bands of the 21st century, constantly pushing the boundaries of improvisation and the styles they draw from, Snarky Puppy’s 20 year back catalogue includes 16 albums, and five Grammy wins. Outside of the band, Michael has shared his production and writing talents on records from David Crosby, Becca Stevens, Varijashree Venugopal and many more.

Speaking from his home studio in Spain, Michael digs into his production process, from crafting rough Logic demos and editing lengthy improvisations to blending global influences with Western jazz. He also shares the technical details of Snarky Puppy’s vast recording setup and treats us to a live demo of his current go-to, the Danelectro Sitar.

Tracks discussed: Bet, Ranjani, Obbakoso

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GEAR MENTIONS

Lauten Audio LS-208

Lauten Audio Snare Mic

Lauten Audio Atlantis FC-387

Audio-Technica Mics

Danelectro Sitar

F-Bass Hammertone 12-String

Fender Rhodes

Roland Space-Echo

Ebow

Moog Bass

Logic Pro

Avid ProTools

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