Working Class Audio

In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes back producer, engineer, and mixer Travis Ference who has worked worked on projects for Imagine Dragons, John Mayer, Ariana Grande, and Bush, to name a few. Travis is also the host of the podcast Progressions: Success in the Music Industry.Travis recently lost his studio in the fires in Altadena and this episode is all about that. In This Episode, We Discuss:The LA fire’s impact on Travis’s home and studioThe challenges of rebuilding after disasterCommunity support in times of crisisKey lessons on insurance and coverage gapsBackup strategies for audio professionalsUsing AI and cloud services for recoveryPlanning a flexible studio rebuildFirst responders and aid effortsProtecting your gear, business, and homeLinks and Show Notes:Travis's siteTravis's podcasthttps://musicares.org/https://www.wearemovingtheneedle.org/Matt’s Rant: Planning for The WorstCredits:Guest: Travis FerenceHost/Engineer/Editing/Producer: Matt BoudreauWCA Theme Music: Cli

In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes Mastering Engineer Justin Perkins who has worked with The Replacements, Rufus Wainwright, En Vogue, Ol’ Dirty Bastard, Shania Twain, Jellyfish, Johnny Cash, The All-American Rejects, Rickie Lee Jones, Donna Summer, Busta Rhymes, Jason Mraz, Lucero, Hanson, New Kids on the Block , Sum 41, AsiaJustin Perkins' success as a mastering engineer is not solely based on his audio skills but also on his meticulous approach to business operations. His emphasis on automation, client communication, and data management provides valuable lessons for anyone in the audio industry seeking to optimize their workflow and deliver exceptional service.In This Episode, We Discuss:Streamlined Project Intake & CommunicationAutomation & TemplatesClient ExperienceMastering Workflow & ToolsData Archival & BackupLinks and Show Notes:Justin's Site WaveLab: Mastering software.iZotope RX:

In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes Mixing Engineer David Stagl who has worked on projects for or with North Point Community Church, Christ Fellowship(West Palm Beach, FL), Eagle Brook Church (Minneapolis, MN), musical artists: Kristian Stanfill, Jesus Culture, Passion, Phil Keaggy, North Point Music and in broadcast: Discovery Channel, HGTV. Corporate: Home Depot, Wyndham Vacations, and Motorola.In This Episode, We Discuss:Post ProductionBroadcastAudio BooksWorship SoundDolby ATMOSLive Sound MistakesAudio Professionals in Religious SettingsImmersive Audio for ChurchesWorship Audio Challenges and SolutionsNorth Point ChurchLinks and Show Notes:David's SiteMatt's Rant: Humility in AudioCredits:Guest: David StaglHost/Engineer/Editor/Producer: Matt BoudreauWCA Theme Music: Cliff TruesdellThe Voice: Chuck Smith

In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt is joined by Chris Selim from Mixdown Online ‪and Lij Shaw from Recording Studio Rockstars to discuss our NAMM 2025 experience. In This Episode, We Discuss:Wearing Good ShoesDrinking WaterCommunityGear We SawCompanies We LikeSeminars at NAMMPodcaster and YouTuber ThingsLinks and Show Notes:https://gracedesign.com/https://gracedesign.com/product/m900-...https://www.audio-scape.com/https://korneffaudio.com/plugins/https://www.soundtoys.com/https://microkits.net/https://www.musikhack.com/https://blinq.me/Matt's Rant: Connecting With People At NAMMCredits:Guest: NAMM 2025Host/Engineer/Editor/Producer: Matt BoudreauWCA Theme Music: Cliff TruesdellThe...

In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes Engineer / Producer Owen Davies who has worked with Broken Teeth, Survival, Fangs Out, Netherhall, Yo Titan, and Brookhorse.In This Episode, We Discuss:Building THE Home StudioWorking with a Studio DesignerNavigating Studio Design ChallengesLessons from Early StudiosTap Dancing and Legal BattlesFreelancing and Passion ProjectsLinks and Show Notes:Owen's StudioMatt's Rant: Things You Should Charge For (In My Opinion)Credits:Guest: Owen DaviesHost/Engineer/Editor/Producer: Matt BoudreauWCA Theme Music: Cliff TruesdellThe Voice: Chuck Smith

In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes mastering engineer Adam Haggar who has worked with Migos, Belinda Carlisle, and The Antlers. In This Episode, We Discuss: Adam's Journey In The Audio IndustryDifferent Cities, Studios, And Roles Within The Music IndustryHis Approach To Mastering And Building His BusinessThe Importance Of NetworkingChallenges Of Maintaining High Standards In A Competitive IndustryValue Of Staying Connected To One's Passion For MusicLinks and Show Notes:Adam s SiteMatt's Rant: Los AngelesCredits:Guest: Adam HaggarHost/Engineer/Producer/Editor: Matt BoudreauWCA Theme Music: Cliff TruesdellThe Voice: Chuck Smith

In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes back the Pellicci Brothers, Jay and Ian, who appeared originally on WCA #054. They have worked with Deerhoof, John Vanderslice, Sleater-Kinney, and the Magnetic Fields.They currently run Brothers (Chinese) Recording in the Bay Area. In This Episode, We Discuss:Challenges in NamingUnintentional UniformityStudio HistoryLiteral CreativityCreative Decision MakingNot PlanningStudio ProjectsBurlapLinks and Show Notes:Brothers (Chinese) RecordingWCA #057 with The Pellicci BrothersMatt's Rant: IdentityCredits:Guest: The Pellicci BrothersHost/Engineer/Producer: Matt BoudreauWCA Theme Music: Cliff TruesdellThe Voice: Chuck Smith

In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes back Grammy Winning mastering engineer, Michael Romanowski. Michael’s extensive credits include Alicia Keys, Bonnie Raitt, Lyle, Lovett, Earth Wind & Fire, Kane Brown, and the Grateful Dead.In This Episode, We Discuss:Studio AcousticsImmersive Audio AdvocacyFuture Of Immersive AudioValue Of Community CollaborationCritical Listening SkillsBalancing Artistic Vision With Label DemandsBass Management Challenges In Immersive AudioConsumer Perceptions Of Immersive AudioRole Of VR And AR In Audio LocalizationThe Dangers of Comparison Links and Show Notes:Michael's StudioMichael on WCA #309Matt's Rant: Year End ReviewCredits:Guest: Michael RomanowskiHost/Engineer/Producer: Matt BoudreauEditing: Anne-Marie PleauWCA Theme Music: Cliff TruesdellThe Voice: Chuck Smith

In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes monitor engineer Lizzie Westsmith who has worked for numerous bands and sound companies including Rancid, Ice Spice, Rat Sound and Coachella. Lizzie shares her journey from discovering her love for audio at Berkeley's iconic Gilman Street to navigating the challenges of the live production industry. In This Episode, We Discuss:Role of a Monitor EngineerMaintaining Personal Balance924 Gilman InfluenceAddiction and RecoveryRate Transparency Touring Life BalanceSystems Engineering GoalsFinancial Management StrategiesCommunity and RespectLinks and Show Notes:Lizzie on InstagramMatt's Rant: Parlay, Pivot and Change CourseCredits:Guest: Lizzie WestsmithHost/Engineer/Producer: Matt BoudreauEditing: Anne-Marie PleauWCA Theme Music: Cliff TruesdellThe Voice: Chuck Smith

In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes Producer/Engineer Ed Donnelly, who has worked with Willie Nelson, Zac Brown, Old 97s, Son Volt, Del McCoury, Nathan Jacques, Lorin Hart, Cole Gallagher, The Lonesome Captain, Trent Summar & The New Row MobIn This Episode, We Discuss:Musical Journey and CareerLive Event Recording JourneyJourney From Performer to ProducerIndependent Artist Budget ChallengesManaging Budgets in Independent BandsMusic Industry Evolution and StrategyInspiration and Approaches in WorkIndependent Artists and Audio ProfessionalsImmersive Audio Formats and MusicLinks and Show Notes:Ed's StudioMatt's Rant: Revisiting CommunityCredits:Guest: Ed DonnellyHost/Engineer/Producer: Matt BoudreauEditing: Anne-Marie PleauWCA Theme Music: Cliff TruesdellThe Voice: Chuck Smith

In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes back mastering engineer Maor Appelbaum (originally on WCA #062)to discuss his career, his approach to mastering across genres, and how he adapts to new technology. Maor has worked on projects for artists such as Faith No More, Yes, and Meat Loaf.In This Episode, We Discuss:Genre-specific mastering approachesCreating and collaborating on new analog hardwareStrategies for effective client communicationBuilding and maintaining long-term professional relationshipsThe value of being part of a collaborative team in the audio processLinks and Show Notes:Maor Appelbaum MasteringWCA #062 with Maor AppelbaumMatt's Rant: The Value of Independent ClientsCredits:Guest: Maor AppelbaumHost/Engineer/Producer: Matt BoudreauEditing: Anne-Marie PleauWCA Theme Music: Cliff TruesdellThe Voice: Chuck Smith

In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt reconnects with engineer and studio owner Jeremy Goody, who was last featured in Episode 85. Jeremy has worked on VO projects for Microsoft, Nuance, Google, Seasonal Visions, and music projects for John Santos, Anticon, and Winfred E. Eye.In This Episode, We Discuss:Studio RebrandingBattling Cell TowersBuilding Faraday CagesShifting to Voice RecordingPodcastingLinks and Show Notes:Jeremy's Studio25th Street RecordingJohn Vanderslice on WCAAdobe Podcast ToolsNeutrik EMC SeriesFilmic Double TakeEssentialism on Audible (I really like this one)The Compound Effect on AudibleSwitch on AudibleDay Trading Attention on AudibleCredits:Guest: Jeremy GoodyHost/Engineer/Producer: Matt BoudreauEditing: Anne-Marie PleauWCA Theme Music: Cliff TruesdellThe Voice: Chuck Smith

In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt reconnects with Grammy-winning producer and engineer J.J. Blair, last featured in Episode 96. J.J. shares the challenges of building a state-of-the-art recording studio in the Hollywood Hills and offers insights from his popular "Microphone Mondays" series. He also opens up about his recent heart surgery and recovery, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing health in a demanding profession.J.J.'s impressive credits include producing and mixing the Grammy-winning album Press On by June Carter Cash, engineering Rod Stewart's Grammy-winning and #1 Billboard album The Great American Songbook, Vol. 3, and engineering and mixing Joanna Connor's #1 Billboard Blues album, 4801 South Indiana Avenue.In This Episode, We Discuss:"Microphone Mondays" seriesBuilding a state-of-the-art recording studioAcoustic design, soundproofing, and the science of great studio environmentsIncorporating vintage and modern gear, including a custom Rupert Neve consoleAdapting production techn

In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt talks with Paul "Willie Green" Womack, a producer, engineer, and professor based in Brooklyn, NY. With nearly two decades of experience, Willie shares his passion for hip-hop production, teaching, and building meaningful connections in the studio. Having worked with renowned artists such as Armand Hammer, The Roots, The Alchemist, and Wiz Khalifa, Willie provides an insider's perspective on balancing artistry with the technical demands of audio production.In This Episode, We Discuss:Teaching Hip-Hop History and Vocal ProductionRemote Education and In-Person DynamicsBuilding a Studio in BrooklynMentoring Upcoming ArtistsBridging Creativity and Technical ExpertiseThe Role of Community in Creative SpacesBalancing Work and Passion ProjectsThe Unique Challenges of Teaching During COVIDWillie's Journey from Engineer to EducatorMatt's Rant: Blank SpacesLinks and Show Notes:Willie Green's WebsiteCredits:Guest: Paul "Willie Green" WomackHost: Matt BoudreauEngineer: Matt Bou

In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt discusses Julie Kahryns extensive experience in the music industry as a producer, sound designer, composer, and educator. With a background spanning from criminal justice to a full-time music career, Julie has worked on a wide range of projects, including crafting unique audio samples for top software companies such as Ableton, Output, Cherry Audio, Splice, and Bandlab, as well as supervising music for films, and composing original scores.In This Episode, We Discuss:Career Shift From JusticeRoles: Producer, Composer, DesignerTeaching at Berklee NYCEarly Music InfluencesMentor Tony Conniff's GuidanceLearning Logic ProIncome From SamplesFilm Music SupervisionBalancing Creativity and BusinessParenthood's Career ImpactBuilding Artist ConfidenceCollaborative Mixing WorkIncome DiversificationInfluences: Brian Eno, Laurie AndersonFilm Scoring TechniquesMatt's Rant: Your HealthLinks and Show Notes:Julie's Site (iamsnowangel.com)Credits:Guest: Julie KathrynHost: Matt Boudre

In this episode, Matt talks with Will Holland, owner of Chill House, a 2,000-square-foot studio in Charlestown, Massachusetts. Will has worked with acts like SeepeopleS, Club d'Elf, Nth Power, Berklee, and the Lowell Chamber Orchestra.In This Episode, We Discuss:Chill House Studio Location2,000 Square Feet SpaceMultiple Studio RoomsLocal, Mid-Level ClientsWill's Boston BeginningsInternship Turned CareerOwnership Advantages DiscussedLow Overhead EmphasizedWord-of-Mouth MarketingWork-Life Balance FocusFuture Relocation PossibleClassic Rock InfluenceStaying YoungSetting RatesMatt's Rant: Following Up!Links and Show Notes:Will's StudioCredits:Guest: Will HollandHost: Matt BoudreauEngineer: Matt BoudreauProducer: Matt BoudreauEditing: Anne-Marie PleauWCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell

In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt Boudreau welcomes back audio engineer David, initially featured in WCA #210. David dives into his journey since his last interview, sharing updates on his Portland-based studio move, reflections on the city's music scene post-COVID, and how the pandemic shifted industry dynamics. David offers insights on balancing live sound with studio recording, the adaptive approaches required in today's music landscape, and how Portland's music community is showing resilience in challenging times. David has worked with fourhundred, Lucid Aisle, Storm Large, Kelly Koval, Joshua Lowe and the Juncos.In This Episode, We Discuss:Relocating Studio Spaces and Adapting to New Work EnvironmentsPost-COVID Shifts in Portland’s Music Scene and Industry-Wide ChangesBalancing Live Sound, Studio Recording, and Creative RolesCommunity Support, Artist Resilience, and Collaborative Culture in PortlandFreelance Audio Strategies: Workflow Tips, Gear Decisions, and Client RelationsNavigating New Mu

In this episode of Working Class Audio, recorded live at AES 2024 in New York, Christal Jerez shares her career journey from Los Angeles to the UK. She discusses her experiences in live and studio sound, her move to the UK for a PhD, and the challenges of balancing motherhood with freelance work. Christal has worked with artists such as Lil Kim, Malik Moses, Al-Doms, and Timi O.In This Episode, We Discuss:Move to the UK: Christal relocated to earn a PhD for the Andrew Scheps Music Production Scholarship, focused on immersive audio, supported by her family.Immersive Audio: Passion for 3D sound and binaural audio, working with psychoacoustic experts at NYU.Early Inspirations: Grew up in LA, influenced by family gatherings and VH1 documentaries.Education Path: Studied audio production in university, learned hands-on through radio station work recording live bluegrass music.Career Growth: Mentored by Serge Tsai at Platinum Sound, rising from assistant to freelance engineer. Focused on client relationships and stu

In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt Boudreau chats with veteran producer and engineer Joel Jaffe, founder of Studio D Recording. Joel reflects on his 40-year journey running a renowned Bay Area studio, working with legendary artists like Faith No More and Huey Lewis, and perfecting live room recording techniques. He also shares insights on overcoming the challenges of studio life, the evolving music industry, and his decision to step away from day-to-day operations, or as Matt puts it, “getting out of the chair.”In This Episode, We Discuss:Challenges of running a studio in the Bay AreaBuilding and managing Studio D RecordingRecording techniques for live rooms and handling isolationWorking with iconic artists like Faith No More, Huey Lewis, and SoundgardenThe impact of streaming and the changing music industryBalancing a 40-year career with family lifeLessons learned from mentors and iconic engineersAdvice for aspiring audio engineers and producersShifting from studio ownership to freelance workMatt’s

In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt Boudreau talks with Grammy-nominated recording engineer and educator Dr. Mary Mazurek about her work in classical music recording and her approach to teaching and mentoring.In This Episode, We Discuss:Grammy-nominated projectsChallenges of recording classical musicMicrophone techniques for live performancesManaging acoustics in different environmentsMentoring young engineersPractical learning in audioEvolution of audio technologyMoving to CanadaSummers in ChicagoMatt’s Rant: The most important thing is what comes out of the speakers!Links and Show Notes:Dr. Mary Mazurek's Faculty ProfileMary Mazurek's previous WCA episode #253Credits:Guest: Dr. Mary MazurekHost: Matt BoudreauEngineer: Matt BoudreauProducer: Matt BoudreauEditing: Anne-Marie PleauWCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell