Browsing Tag

sound designer

Shaping Soundscapes: An Exclusive Interview with Audio Engineer Kaiki Chan

Posted on 24 December 2024

Kaiki Chan’s journey into audio engineering is as inspiring as it is illustrative of the intersection between technical mastery and artistic passion. In this interview, Kaiki discusses their path from youthful curiosity about the entertainment world to an accomplished career that includes mixing standout tracks like Summer Cologne and restoring the audio of classic films at Audio Mechanics. The interview touches on the challenges of balancing creativity with client expectations, the rewards of collaboration, and the evolving landscape of sound engineering. Kaiki’s insights offer a window into the artistry and precision that define their work in shaping unforgettable audio experiences.

  1. Kaiki Chan, it’s a pleasure to connect with you and discuss your decorated career as an audio engineer. Before we get stuck into your accomplishments, can you take us back to the first moment you realized audio engineering might be more than a hobby and could become a lifelong pursuit?

From a young age, I was always drawn to the world of entertainment whether it was film, music, or television. What really fascinated me was the behind-the-scenes process: how all of these elements come together to create something that resonates with the audience. As I grew older, I became increasingly interested in sound and how it shapes our perception of media. It was in my teenage years, when I first started experimenting with recording equipment, that I realized this was more than just a hobby. I began to see audio engineering as a path that could blend my technical curiosity with my creative interests, and from that point, I knew I wanted to pursue it as a career.

  1. How did your early influences lead you toward refining your technical skills and understanding the artistry involved in shaping sound?

Throughout my academic years, I was fortunate to be surrounded by incredibly inspiring peers and professors who broadened my perspective. Although I initially felt that sound engineering was a niche, I quickly discovered just how expansive the field really was. Whether it was through learning about acoustics, mixing, or the creative possibilities of sound design, I realized that audio engineering is both a technical craft and an artistic expression. The more I learned, the more I recognized how sound can influence emotion, narrative, and overall experience, which ultimately refined both my technical abilities and my artistic sensibilities.

  1. Along the way, have you had to overcome any challenges which ultimately gave you more confidence as an engineer?

One of the most challenging aspects of being an audio engineer is the constant balancing act between creativity and client expectations. Over the years, I’ve learned that the moments that truly boost my confidence are when I’m able to meet those expectations while still maintaining a high level of creativity. Whether it’s delivering a sound mix that elevates a project or receiving positive feedback from clients who are thrilled with the final product, those moments serve as reminders of why I’m doing this work and motivate me to continue pushing myself.

  1. Could you share some insights into what drew you towards working as a mixing engineer on the track “Summer Cologne” and what made that collaboration such a standout moment in your career?

“Summer Cologne” was one of the first major projects I worked on as an audio engineer, and it stands out for a few reasons. One key factor was the collaboration itself. The artist was incredibly open to new ideas, and the creative freedom allowed me to experiment and really find the right sound. Additionally, the project came together remotely due to the pandemic, which was a new experience for many professionals at the time. The challenges of working virtually helped me realize the potential for remote collaboration and taught me how to adapt quickly to new technologies and workflows, which has been invaluable in my career.

  1. What was the most rewarding aspect of restoring the audio of old films at Audio Mechanics?

Restoring old film audio is an incredibly rewarding experience for me, primarily because it feels like I am giving new life to pieces of history. Many of these films had soundtracks or audio elements that had deteriorated over time, and the opportunity to preserve them for future generations felt meaningful on a much larger scale. There’s something deeply gratifying about knowing that my work will allow people to experience these films in their most authentic form, and that I’m contributing to the preservation of cultural heritage in a way that can be appreciated by audiences for years to come.

  1. How do you navigate the pressure of deadlines and high expectations while still allowing creativity to flow naturally?

Managing deadlines and high expectations is definitely part of the job, but I’ve found that the key is balance. Time management is crucial, but it’s also important to let the creative process take its course. When I’m really in the zone, it feels like nothing else matters. Hunger, sleep, even time itself become secondary to the flow of ideas. It’s when I’m able to focus fully on the task at hand that I can create my best work. And, as for high expectations, I’ve learned to embrace them as a source of motivation rather than pressure. They push me to strive for excellence, and they often lead to some of my most fulfilling work.

  1. What do you hope to achieve in your career that will leave a meaningful imprint on the industry?

My goal is simple: I want to continue contributing to the world of sound in a meaningful way. Entertainment, in all its forms, plays a crucial role in shaping how we understand the world, connect with each other, and experience life. While it may not be life-or-death work, the emotional impact of great sound design or engineering is undeniable. I’m proud to be a part of that process, and my aspiration is to keep working on projects that resonate with people, spark emotions, and leave a lasting impact, whether it’s through a film, an album, or any other medium.

  1. What would you say to inspire others to follow their own engineering paths?

The journey in audio engineering is one of constant learning, and that’s something I’m still experiencing every day. One of the most important things I’ve learned along the way is the value of mentorship. Having someone who can guide you, offer advice, and challenge you to grow is invaluable. But just as important is believing in yourself. This is a field that requires dedication, patience, and a passion for learning, and it’s crucial to stay committed even when the road gets tough. My advice would be to embrace the learning process, seek out mentors, and above all, trust in your own potential to contribute something unique to the field.

–
Connect with Kaiki Chan on Instagram & check out their work on Spotify.

Interview by Amelia Vandergast

A&R Factory interview with the man, the muso and the audio legend, Manuel Sanchez

Posted on 3 September 2024
Manuel Sanchez

Manuel Sanchez’s interview with A&R Factory explores into his profound connection with music. His narrative begins with the discovery of this deep-seated passion and traces through his scholarship at Berklee College of Music which marked a pivotal point in his artistic life. His artistic arc showcases an unyielding adherence to personal authenticity, a theme consistent throughout his career and particularly evident during the Berklee audition where he presented an original piece.

The interview touches upon the challenges and cultural shifts Sanchez faced, from moving to Boston to establishing himself in the competitive Los Angeles music scene. His role at Igloo Music, alongside his transition into producing his own music, highlights his evolution and the various facets of his musical and professional identity. 

Manuel Sanchez, welcome to A&R Factory! It’s a pleasure to sit down with you and discuss your storied career as an audio engineer and musician. To start, can you take us back to the moment when you discovered your passion for music? 

My passion for music began when I was just 9 years old and started taking guitar lessons. From the very first moment, I felt a deep connection with music. Despite my limited knowledge of music theory at the time, I always found a way to express myself through it, creating original pieces from the moment I started playing. This drive to express myself inspired me to continue studying, striving to improve and communicate my emotions even more effectively through music.

Earning a scholarship to Berklee College of Music is no small feat. How did the scholarship shape your approach to music?

When I received the scholarship, I felt vindicated—it reaffirmed my belief in trusting myself and in what music truly meant to me. Many people don’t know this, but I wasn’t accepted into one of the universities I applied to in Colombia. Their requirements were very strict; to be accepted, I had to perform a prepared piece that demonstrated technical ability in a specific genre—Jazz—which I wasn’t very familiar with at the time. As a result, I felt like I wasn’t good enough.

However, for my Berklee audition, I decided to stay true to myself. I played an original piece with a full band because I wanted to show the jury what music truly meant to me: a way to express myself. When I received the scholarship, I knew that trusting my vision and passion had been the right choice. Years later, I had the opportunity to meet one of the jury members from that audition, and she told me it was one of the best auditions she had ever seen. No one else had the idea, nor the boldness, to bring a full band into an audition to play an original piece.

How much of a culture shock was it to move from Bogotá to Boston for your scholarship?

Arriving in Boston was a big shock. Not only because I had to learn a whole new language but because It was the first time I was living by myself. The culture was different, the food, the weather. In Colombia, we don’t have winter so being -26°C (-14.8°F) is a challenge for me. But Berklee was an amazing place to start over. I had many friends that were international students as well and we all supported one another. It was very interesting to me how so many people from so many different countries could just get together and become friends. It really showed me that humans have the ability to get along no matter how different we think we are.

You have successfully integrated into the LA music scene, a pipedream for most, what has been your experience of the industry in LA?

LA can be a really tough city at first. I felt more lonely and stressed moving to LA than I did moving to Boston from another country. When I arrived in LA, I was on my own, without a car or a stable job. I took on numerous internships while working, and eventually, I found a place where I could grow.

Your work at Igloo Music, alongside industry giants like Gustavo Borner, has been a pivotal part of your journey. What have been some of the most impactful experiences working there?

Definitely, learning from more experienced people has been invaluable. Even though they were often busy with many responsibilities, they were always willing to help and teach. And then there’s the importance of making mistakes and improving from them. Don’t be afraid to fail—every failure is an opportunity to learn and grow.

You’ve contributed to over 100 projects, including high-profile productions like Money Heist: Korea and The Glory. Out of all these projects, which one do you feel was the most challenging or rewarding, and why?

One of the most challenging projects I worked on was Who Killed Him? for Amazon. This project was particularly demanding because it centered heavily on the actors’ incredible performances and artistic vision. We had to ensure that we preserved and enhanced the original intent, staying true to the creative direction while bringing out the best in every detail.

Your career spans various roles in audio engineering, from mixing to recording and dubbing. How do you approach each of these roles differently, and what do you enjoy most about the diversity in your work?

Being able to switch between different roles is something I’m very grateful for. Every time I spend a long time recording, for example, it’s nice to be able to transition to a different aspect of my profession and continue being creative. Each role is like a different hat or character I need to play, and with experience, you can switch between them more organically.

You’re on the verge of releasing your first single and have several exciting projects on the horizon. Can you share a bit about what we can expect from your music and these upcoming ventures?

I’m thrilled to finally release my music project. These songs have been in the making for years—some for over five years—so they’re deeply connected to my journey. They represent how I’ve perceived and experienced my path and evolution throughout this time.

Your story is one of perseverance, talent, and an unwavering commitment to your craft. For those who aspire to follow a similar path in music and audio engineering, what advice would you offer based on your experiences?

I advise staying true to who you are and what you genuinely want. Don’t be afraid to take risks and demonstrate your desire to grow and learn. Nowadays, society is like a loud playground where it’s easy to get lost. So take the time to focus on your inner voice and truly listen to what your heart wants. Be grateful for what you’ve achieved, as that gratitude will give you the strength and courage to keep moving forward.

–

Discover more about Manuel Sanchez via his official website.

Interview by Amelia Vandergast

Jeff Goldsmith – Before Dawn: Stillness in Electronic Neo-Classic Motion

Posted on 2 September 2024
This Beast by Jeff Goldsmith

Ahead of the release of his This Beast EP, the award-winning Minneapolis film composer and sound designer, Jeff Goldsmith teased the reflective ambience to come with the unveiling of ‘Before Dawn’.

The instrumental score captures the beauty of the stillness before dawn breaks and the humdrum of modernity unfurls. The electronic synthetics reverberate around the softly plaintive keys which keep the momentum quiescently pushing forward through the layers of ethereal reverb which border on ominous as the single progresses reaches a subtle crescendo.

The track then winds back down through an installation of artfully composed neo-classic trip-hop, exhibiting Jeff Goldsmith’s versatility as a musician and engineer. His ability to beguile through electronic sound design fused with treated samples and evocative acoustic instrumentation has earned him several accolades in the industry.

When he’s not composing for the airwaves, he’s scoring soundtracks for horror and thriller films. His most recent project, This Beast, may be a departure from his industrial leanings, but for the sonic sanctuary it delivers, it is more than worth your attention.

Stream and purchase Before Dawn on Bandcamp now.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

Nim – Avalon: An Expansively Intimate Exploration of Dystopic Ennui

Posted on 12 March 2024

Nim’s latest single, ‘Avalon’, is a testament to his evolution as a multi-instrumentalist and sound designer. From the outset, the track immerses listeners in a world where ambient electronica melds seamlessly with a cinematic synthesis of post-rock and trip-hop. The minor key arrangement, rich in ambient textures, sets an ethereal yet intensely emotive tone to maintain a melancholic undercurrent without becoming overwrought.

The lush reverb sugars the pill of the dystopic ennui, while the desolation in the vocals is so laden with solitude they feel as if they are reaching out from the vastness of space, seeking connection in their isolation.

Nim’s background as a pianist and singer is evident in the meticulous construction of ‘Avalon’. The track defies easy categorisation, drifting through the realms of post-rock, trip-hop, and ambient IDM with a fluidity that speaks to his versatility. The introduction of a trappy backbeat, both solid and glitchy, adds an unexpected yet mellifluous twist, intensifying the track’s introspective mood.

Hit play and journey through Nim’s dystopian vision, where the feel of the music takes precedence and the haunting exploration of malaise resonates long after the last note fades.

Stream Avalon on Spotify now.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

Mosa melodically sculpted the twilight in his latest electronic score, The Night Sets In

Posted on 7 October 2023
Mosa

Lose yourself in the dusky twilight of the latest electronic folk serenade by the Oxford-based sound designer Mosa. His scintillating single, The Night Sets In, is a plaintively compelling composition that could be easily compared to the artfulness of Radiohead, Mogwai, and Low; although those comparisons can allude to the diaphanously sonorous atmosphere of his sound, they don’t do Mosa’s intrinsic authenticity much justice.

His unique ability to infuse the dusty soul of blues into his sound design around the neo-classic keys and ethereal motifs establishes him as one of the most authentic artists around in 2023. We were hooked after hearing his single, Helicopter, earlier this year, after hearing The Night Sets In, which could easily rival the beguiling gravitas of any of the releases on the Westworld soundtrack, we are even more assured that Mosa is one to watch.

The Night Sets In will be officially released on October 7th. Hear it on all major platforms via this link.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

Join Harry Bone in his ambient retro synthscape, Journey

Posted on 7 September 2023

After gaining a background in classical music and a conservatoire degree in orchestral percussion production, the Bristol, UK-based producer, composer, and mixing and mastering engineer Harry Bone started to take a more experimental and lo-fi approach to his sound after discovering that almost anything can serve a musical purpose.

His 2023 ambient album, Ambi, featuring the odyssey voyage of a single, Journey, is a cathartic exhibition of his freshly rendered explorative talents. The reverb-lavish keys weave cinematic melodies while still delivering a chill synthy lo-fi smorgasbord of nostalgic alleviation.

The single was constructed to depict the journey from naval-gazing self-pity towards gratitude and positive affirmative action. By euphonically visualising a trip through the woods while allowing elements of nature to coalesce with memories that still evoke positive emotion, Bone succeeded in crafting a consoling score that will set your imagination alight.

If you’re always on the hunt for soundscapes that facilitate tranquil mental repose, don’t hang around waiting to discover the quiescent gems in Harry Bone’s discography.

Stream the Ambi album on SoundCloud.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

PonyArt has unveiled his Avant-Garde IDM installation of sonic maleficence, Novum Stutter Sd

Posted on 14 August 2023

The artwork for PonyArt’s debut LP, Redundancy, which landed on August 3rd, is creepier than any scene in The Last of Us; when you open the sonic door to it by delving into the first single, Novum Stutter Sd, you’ll instantly note the sound designer and composer’s ability to sonically visualise the macabre into maleficent melodic soundscapes.

While I never thought I would use Otto Von Schirach and Glenn Branca references in the same review, PonyArt necessitated it with his Avant-Garde installation of IDM, which came into fruition when the composer, who day walks by the name of Joe Sheldrick, decided to orchestrate an expression of pure creative freedom and escapism from genres or expectations.

While there are visceral moments of phantasmally cacophonous etherealism, the LP, which was put out through Dachshund Records, is underpinned by melodic accessibility.

Stream the Redundancy LP on Spotify now.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

Steve Nicosia scored a scintillating ambient fantasy in his instrumental curtain call, End of the Event

Posted on 12 March 2023

Taken from his hotly anticipated Matter of Time EP, the standout single, End of the Event, from the eclectically inspired artist Steve Nicosia is a filmic sonic fantasy that invites you to lose yourself in the scintillatingly structured ambience.

Short of implanting yourself back in the womb, there are few sanctuaries on our intrepid scorched earth as cathartic as the one that unfolds under the duress of the cinematic sound designer.

Extended preludes may be becoming a thing of the past in the streaming era of music. Yet, End of the Event proves that they are anything but outdated. The gentle orchestral swells, classical guitars, and piano motifs gradually build from the mid-way mark in this daydream of a release that progressively rewards you for your immersion.

As the layered melodies gently crescendo, the sense of arrestive awe for Nicosia’s talent when weaving an instrumental narrative will viscerally heighten. I feel like I’ve just heard the curtains close on humanity, and it deserves a standing ovation.

The Matter of Time EP is now available to stream via Spotify.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

Out Of Control: Taihei defies the failed system and busts free on the electronic storm to save a Fallen Angel

Posted on 20 February 2023

Dropping his first track of the year to much strength and dance floor sliding, Taihei shows us the full force of that potently elevating Fallen Angel via a track so heart-soothing, it might leave behind a smile for days.

Taihei aka John Paul Reyes is a Chicago, USA indie EDM music producer/sound designer who makes expertly created heavy soundtracks to boost all heartbeats up a notch or two.

”A musical and technical maestro since the 2010s, he has worked in multiple different genres such as Progressive House, Trance, Big Room, Trap, and other styles. After many years working behind the scenes, he established Taihei in 2018 as a nostalgia love letter to the genres, tech culture, as well as the video games and anime that inspired him.” ~ Taihei

Marking the territory and easing all stress away with a monumental mountain of discovery, Taihei is surely on all radars with a song to remember forever here. Fallen Angel feels like a real description to feel enlightened by. It’s that good.

Fallen Angel from Chicago, USA indie EDM music producer Taihei is a vein-popping pool of inspiring clues into how one flies away from those dark days and controlling mechanisms that somehow treacherously deplete humanity’s innocence.

Layered in a rather spectacular force, our ears are treated to a wake-up call similar to a 4 am party of much significance. Headache? Yes. Worth it? Oh yes.

Listen up on Spotify. View more news on IG.

Reviewed by Llewelyn Screen

Oxfordshire sound designer Mosa has unveiled his poetically postmodernist score, helicopter

Posted on 2 February 2023
https://soundcloud.com/soundofmosa/helicopter/s-SzrHmsEv6VP?si=900e2a959dbd4e68829de9048b7cfe3f&utm_source=clipboard&utm_medium=text&utm_campaign=social_sharing

Game composer by day and sound designer by night, the Oxfordshire-based artist Mosa evidently has a talent for creating immersive worlds. If anyone can exhibit the intrinsic beauty in melancholy, it is Mosa; his latest single, helicopter, is the ultimate testament to his ability to build poetry and a bitter-sweet neo-classic electronica score from scorned emotion.

Juxtaposingly creating an even balance between etherealism and visceralism, helicopter is an achingly artful aural memoir of ennui. The postmodernist reflective piece enmeshes you within the lyrical and vocal vulnerability, while the intricately weaved cinematic layers conceptually depict curtains closing. It is the ultimate consolation for outliers through the sonic resonance and affirmation that whatever you’re sinking into has sunk many of the beautiful minds that came before you.

Helicopter will land on February 3rd. Get onboard via SoundCloud.

Review by Amelia Vandergast