Music Production and Mixing Tips for Music Producers and Artists | Inside The Mix

• #190: Ever Wonder Why Your Effects Sound "Off"? Unlocking Pre-Fader and Post-Fader Sends

  Send me a messageEver wondered how the pros achieve those perfectly balanced mixes and immersive effects? Marc Matthews and Tim Benson (Aisle9) explain the difference between pre-fader and post-fader sends, the key to balanced mixes and immersive effects. Many overlook this fundamental signal flow, yet mastering it is the secret to professional sound.Discover when to use pre-fader sends (ideal for independent monitor mixes) and when to use post-fader sends (perfect for lush reverb and delay - learn how to use post-fader sends for reverb and delay!). Understand how pre-fader sends work (signal before the fader) and how post-fader sends work (proportional to the fader).Explore why you'd use a pre-fader send for effects and the advantages of using pre-fader sends (consistent monitor levels, unique effects) and post-fader sends (natural effect balances). We'll also touch on how pre/post-fader sends affect aux tracks/returns and when to use pre-fader sends for parallel processing. Join Marc and Tim as they demonstrate that there are no rigid rules, only a universe of creative possibilities waiting to be unlocked.Links mentioned in this episode:Got a question? We'd love to hear from you! Submit a question, share your social media handles or website, and get featured in a future episode. Plus, one lucky question will win a Starbucks voucher each month! Support the showBook your FREE 20 Minute Discovery Call Follow Marc Matthews' Socials:Instagram | YouTube | Synth Music Mastering Thanks for listening!!

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• #189: Could Re-Releasing Music Boost Your Streams? A Guide to the Waterfall Release Strategy

  Send me a messageEver released a song only to watch it vanish into the streaming void after a brief moment in the spotlight? In this episode of Inside The Mix, Marc Matthews delves into the waterfall release strategy, a strategic approach to music distribution that aims to revolutionise how artists share their work and maximise their reach.The core concept of the waterfall release strategy is explained: instead of releasing singles in isolation or dropping an entire album at once, artists gradually build momentum by rereleasing previous tracks alongside each new single. The episode outlines how an artist might start with one song, then release it with the second single, followed by packaging all three tracks together for the third release, continuing this pattern until the complete EP or album is unveiled.Marc provides a practical walkthrough of how to implement this strategy using DistroKid, although he notes that the underlying principles are applicable across various distribution platforms. He emphasises the critical importance of maintaining identical metadata and audio files for re-released tracks on DistroKid, the correct and consistent use of ISRC codes, and offers practical tips to help artists avoid common pitfalls when using DistroKid for a waterfall release.Sharing his own experiences, Marc discusses testing this approach with his recent releases, "Waves," "Separation," and "Four Minute Warning." He highlights the noticeable increase in streams for his earlier tracks, demonstrating a tangible benefit of the strategy.The episode explores the potential advantages of the waterfall strategy for artists looking to maximise their music's reach and lifespan, particularly on Spotify. Marc discusses how this method can keep an artist's catalog fresh in listeners' minds, potentially trigger algorithmic favour through consistent releases, and create multiple opportunities for music discovery on platforms like Spotify. He poses the question of how a waterfall release can help boost Spotify streams and keep back catalogs relevant.While acknowledging it's not a guaranteed solution, Marc positions the waterfall strategy as a compelling option for producers and artists aiming for sustained traction rather than a fleeting moment in the spotlight. He encourages listeners to consider if this approach, particularly when implemented through DistroKid, could transform their next music release and help them effectively utilise the waterfall release strategy on Spotify.Links mentioned in this episode:Listen to 4 Minute WarningDistroKidMy Journey to 10,000 Monthly Listeners - What Actually Works?How to Release Music and Artist Strategies for Engagement and Success in 2024 with Jay GilbertDon't Release Another Song Without Reading this First: A Guide Support the showBook your FREE 20 Minute Discovery Call Follow Marc Matthews' Socials:Instagram | YouTube | Synth Music Mastering Thanks for listening!!

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• #188: ALL THE DAMN VAMPIRES | Davey Oberlin: What Makes an '80s Synthwave Cover Truly Authentic?

  Send me a messageWhat happens when a keyboard player for Korn and Five Finger Death Punch dives headfirst into the neon-soaked synthwave world? Davey Oberlin joins Marc Matthews to reveal how he transforms classic rock anthems into synthwave masterpieces through his project, All The Damn Vampires.Davey breaks down his cover of Whitesnake's Is This Love, uncovering the creative process behind reinterpreting rock songs in a different musical style. From drop F guitar tunings that create wall-shaking heaviness to vocal production techniques that achieve 80s aesthetics in modern synthwave production, every decision is made with precision. "I picture that dark studio vocal booth in the '80s," Davey explains, "then try to get the sound that matches the vibe."The conversation explores using vintage effects in synthwave production and the unique challenges of blending organic and electronic elements. Davey introduces “Vice Core,” his signature fusion of Miami Vice aesthetics, yacht rock sensibilities, and metal intensity—creating an entirely new sonic experience. He also shares insights into how audiences react to synthwave covers of rock classics, balancing nostalgia with innovation.What You’ll Learn:Arrangement strategies for synthwave compositions that retain the emotional impact of rock originalsMixing and mastering techniques for synthwave tracks that balance analog warmth with modern polishWhy so many metal musicians transition into synthwave and how the two genres overlapHow to reinterpret rock songs while preserving their essence and avoiding common pitfallsThe role of quad-tracking rhythm guitars in creating a massive yet controlled soundThe importance of visual storytelling in synthwave production and its impact on sonic choicesWhether you're a producer experimenting with how to cover a rock song, a guitarist exploring electronic textures, or simply fascinated by the evolution of synthwave, Davey delivers an inspiring look at reinvention, collaboration, and pushing creative boundaries.Links mentioned in this episode:Follow Davey OberlinFollow All The Damn VampiresValhalla Vintage VerbNuro Audio XvoxFab Pro R 2 Support the showBook your FREE 20 Minute Discovery Call Follow Marc Matthews' Socials:Instagram | YouTube | Synth Music Mastering Thanks for listening!!

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• #187: THE MIDNIGHT | Tyler Lyle: Unlocking the Secrets of Synthwave Songwriting

  Send me a messageIn this episode of Inside The Mix, host Marc Matthews engages in a profound conversation with Tyler Lyle, the singer-songwriter and one-half of the synthwave duo, The Midnight. Tyler delves into the enigmatic nature of songwriting, describing it as "a well-narrated hallucination," and likens the creative process to "trying to start a truck sitting on a block of ice." Drawing from his folk storytelling roots, Tyler shares how he seamlessly integrates evocative lyrics into The Midnight's nostalgic synth-driven soundscapes. He contrasts the tangible aspects of music production with the abstract challenges of lyric writing, emphasizing the importance of consistent dedication—what he refers to as the "ass-in-chair method." This disciplined approach involves daily studio sessions from 10 am to 5 pm, complemented by morning routines of journaling, exercise, and meditation to foster creativity.The synergy between Tyler and his production partner, Tim McEwan, is highlighted as a harmonious blend of prolific idea generation and meticulous refinement. Despite geographical distances, they prioritize periodic in-person collaborations to capture the irreplaceable energy of shared creative spaces.Much of the discussion centers on Tyler's transition from confessional songwriting to crafting lyrics rich in archetypes and universal symbols. Inspired by Carl Jung's philosophies, he aims to create a shared mythological space within The Midnight's music, allowing listeners to project their meanings onto the imagery. What You'll Learn:The abstract nature of lyric writing and strategies to overcome creative challenges.The importance of consistent routines in fostering creativity.Balancing prolific idea generation with meticulous refinement in collaborative settings.The role of archetypes and universal symbols in crafting resonant lyrics.Insights into blending folk storytelling with synthwave aesthetics.For aspiring artists, Tyler emphasizes creating work that embodies truth and necessity, encouraging authentic expression over external validation. He reminds creatives that they are conduits, "ferrying ideas from one realm to this one," and underscores the significance of producing art that resonates fundamentally.Join Marc and Tyler as they explore the depths of the songwriting process, offering invaluable insights for independent music producers and artists seeking to elevate their craft.Links mentioned in this episode:Follow Tyler Lyle Support the showBook your FREE 20 Minute Discovery Call Follow Marc Matthews' Socials:Instagram | YouTube | Synth Music Mastering Thanks for listening!!

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• #186: Why LUFS Don't Matter As Much As You Think with Ian Shepherd

  Send me a messageIn this episode of Inside The Mix, mastering engineer Ian Shepherd demystifies loudness metrics and debunks common mastering misconceptions while offering practical advice for producers looking to improve their masters without chasing arbitrary targets. Ian explains the role of LUFS in mastering, why normalization matters, and how focusing on musicality and dynamics leads to better results than simply hitting a loudness target.What You'll Learn: • LUFS measurements explained – momentary, short-term, and integrated loudness • How many LUFS should my master be? Understanding the balance between dynamics and loudness • The truth about LUFS for Spotify – why 83% of users never change loudness normalization settings • What does LUFS stand for? And why it's just one piece of the mastering puzzle • How normalization impacts your music across different streaming platforms • The role of audio normalization in creating a consistent listening experience • Why AI mastering struggles to match the emotional intent of human engineers • Spotify’s approach to loudness and what it means for your masters • Internal dynamics – how balancing different sections of your song enhances clarity and impact • The mastering feedback loop – why collaboration between engineers and artists is keyIf you want your music to stand out in today’s Spotify-dominated landscape, don’t obsess over loudness numbers. Instead, focus on musicality, dynamics, and emotional impact. Test how your tracks sound at normalized streaming levels, and let the music, not the meters, drive your mastering decisions.Links mentioned in this episode:Listen to the Mastering Show PodcastMastering Engineer Reacts to 8 Pro Mixes of the Same SongHigher LUFS - do they REALLY always sound louder?YouTube ruined all my videos - UNLESS you disable this setting...Loudness Penalty: AnalyzePerception AB Support the showBook your FREE 20 Minute Discovery Call Follow Marc Matthews' Socials:Instagram | YouTube | Synth Music Mastering Thanks for listening!!

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