09/20
Processes
These processes comprise what is commonly described as music production. We undertake these processes both singularly and in combination.
Every relationship starts with a date. We still think meeting face to face is incredibly important even if it is being outmoded by facebook et al. It is an opportunity to talk over your plans and see whether there is common ground between our thoughts. Consideration of topics outside the technical and musical processes, such as image and identity are of ongoing concern throughout the production process helping to channel the final product.
Project management is an essential component of the production process if it is to run to time and budget. An accurate project schedule is distributed to all involved at the outset of every project.
Behind every great recording is a great song, a song which stands up by itself. More often than not we collaborate in the writing process with our clients, offering a fresh set of impartial ears. A commercially viable song will have a universal message.
'The notes I handle no better than many pianists. But the pauses between the notes - ah, that is where the art resides!'
A succinct reminder from the Austrian pianist Artur Schnabel of the benefits of an uncluttered arrangement. Seemingly minor adjustments really allow a piece to breathe revealing its hidden dynamics.
It is hard to imagine contemporary pop without programmed components, and tasteful programming, be it percussion, synthesizer parts or brass ensemble, is an art in itself. We are happy to program anything from a simple piano part to a full orchestra.
Wildly underrated in its importance this is the last opportunity to alter arrangements before tracking commences. It ensures that all players are prepared for the recording process and maximises the time available for additional overdubs during the recording sessions.
A real emphasis is placed on capturing a great performance. Combining this ideal with high quality signal paths and industry standard equipment means that your recording will sound balanced, clean and dynamic before it is even mixed.
The accurate intonation and synchronisation of individual parts within a performance make an immeasurable difference to the impact of a mix. We are rigorous in our approach to provide tight yet natural results.
We like to think of mixing as the sympathetic glamorisation of recorded material. Each mix is treated individually and in great detail so that it may be appreciated by a wide audience.
Mastering is the technical and creative act of balancing, equalizing and enhancing, analog or digital media so that the finished product will have attained the maximum musicality and competitiveness in the open market. The Cowshed provides a complete digital pre-mastering service utilising industry standard Waves processors and complementary outboard, along with sensitive ears to provide high quality production masters.
With touring rapidly becoming the primary revenue stream for artists, having events professionally produced is now a matter of course. A separate division, The Cowshed Live Ltd handles fashion shows, product launches, artist exposés, gigs and festivals providing everything from show block to clean up team. The images on our Flickr Photostream will you give you a feel for our standards and the nature of our clients. Visit the data section for a link.