The idea to get into music mixing came about – as often happens – almost by chance.
It was sparked by the purchase of a multi-track mixer intended to serve as an audio interface for home recording. I decided it would be worthwhile to record separated tracks with individual instruments, and the Mackie ONYX 8 – an 8-channel premium analog mixer with multi-track USB – was the right tool for this kind of job.
The moment I installed the bundled software (Tracktion’s Waveform), I realized that my previous ideas about music recording had been incredibly uncivilized.
Next equipment appeared very quickly – the CR-X studio monitors – also from Mackie… incidentally, I`ve really liked that company and eventually expanded my setup, although that’s a story for another time.
Then came headphones – I’m currently on my third pair : )) – and a few more desk accessories. Finally, I had to buy a new desk to accommodate all this essential musical gear.
The beginnings, as they often are, were time-consuming. I hesitate to call them “difficult,” however, to some extent, perhaps I should. Step by step, I managed to record a CD that was essentially at a demo level. I opted for a compromise because the situation demanded it. Yet, paradoxically, it was just after recording ( two CDs) that I truly threw myself into production.
This is the right moment to say a few words about Hugiz Records. It is a professional music production company run by Tomek – who shares my first name – a truly dedicated person. I had the opportunity to go through a mentorship program and hold a series of meetings with Tomasz that proved to be simply invaluable.
One instance stands out in my memory. Eager to show off, I had prepared Excel spreadsheets detailing the settings – including specific parameter values – for the various plugin chains used in my songs.
Tomek, who, based solely on those numbers and parameter values (he had occasion to hear only two or three songs), pointed out areas that needed tweaking. To be honest, he was spot on – Respect to him! :))
I’m currently working with Adrian, who shows truly angelic patience with me, given my irrepressible urge to go overboard with effects.
Adrian tells me to try not to overdo the parameters, because the problem may appear when I bring all the tracks together, the result can be a total mess – forcing me to go through the process all over again.
With such professional support, everything is moving in the right direction.
I’ve noticed a certain pattern. Much like arranging effects on a pedalboard, music production has its own established foundational principles. However, nothing stops you from seeking out your own unique settings and the possibilities are unlimited.
For over two years now (in earnest, for the past year), I’ve been immersing myself in production to give my songs a sound of my own style. It may not be a pinnacle of engineering, but certainly conveys my creative process and the authenticity of someone deeply committed to their musical passion.
I’m preparing a musical surprise that will mark the culmination of the next stage of development—it should be out this month, probably in about two weeks.
I hope you like it—I’ll keep you posted : ))
See You : ))
Tomek