Terminal Orchestra Tracking

Terminal Orchestra Tracking

DSC_0052DSC_0048DSC_0064We had a few long, productive days tracking the Terminal Orchestra at Algomah Acres Honey Farm. The basic tracks for 8 songs – drums, bass and electric guitar – were done by 2am the first night after we loaded the vans, drove 2 hours, unloaded into the church and set up for recording. Day 2 was strings and acoustic guitar overdubs. Day 3 – tom overdubs, pack up, drive home. The main area of the church was a stellar room to record in, a little cold for the musicians, but great acoustics. It was such a pleasure to work with such a talented bunch of musicians for this project…these songs are not easy, one passing the 20 minute mark, and a few more 12-15 minutes long. And they were just knocking them out. People – this is going to be an epic album.

set up in the big room

set up in the big room

late night tracking

late night tracking

strings!

strings!

mid-side!

mid-side!

Most of the gear was pulled from Da Yoopers Studio and live sound rig, with some mics I brought with me (Audix D6, AEA R84, AKG 414, Audio Technica 4033, Beyer M500’s) . To augment this gear we borrowed some Summit Audio tube preamps and compressors, as well as a few mics (Shure SM98’s and AKG 451’s) from excellent engineer and all-around sweet guy Jim Supanich of Sombrero Sound Company, based in Marquette. I was able to set up a makeshift control room in the little gift shop adjacent to the main room in the church. Even had a space heater! Oh, and we were able to sample some of the different mead varieties they’re brewing over there (pictured below in the upper righthand corner) – totally delicious.

control room

control room

listening to takes

listening to takes