Sonic Integrity

[CZ]

Greeting fellow FM fans. Yes, isn't it great to have the new album out and about? I've been an avid fan since '77.

While still in the throws if SYW and taking my sweet time to assimilate all 18 tracks (these albums don't come around all that often you know!) I was taken by the fact that on a purely sonic level, this record just doesn't sound to have been mixed really well.

What strikes me here is the consistent low-level lead vocals, and, much too heavy stereo buss compression (sounds like an old Fairchild was used, abeit too aggressively).

Sonically the album is not on par with other FM or Lindsey or Stevie or Christine or Mick or John solo projects. Kind of a bummer, I think. An interesting side note I believe is for you OOTC fans, I also always felt that the lead vocal on "You Do Or You Don't" (my favorite track on the record) was also mixed too low.

I have heard that Lindsey sticks around during the mixing process - so I suppose SYW mixing levels (or lack thereof) could be a Lindsey thing.

I was a recording engineer for many years in Los Angeles and basically, you do what the client wants even if it isn't exactly what you would do on your project, you know?

My guess is, that's the case here(?)

So, just my two cents. Anyone care to add?

Thanks,

Christopher Zerbe

[seteca]

I know what you mean about some of the low-level vocals, but I'm 99% sure that's simply the way LB likes it! He's been doing it for so long now that he's found what he likes and stuck with it. Anyway, the songs themselves totally kick ass so I'm happy!

By the way, YDOYD is my fav. track on OOTC too....brilliant, brilliant song! One of my favs. of all time!

[Barbara]

Chris!

Good to see you again, and to have your professional input about the new album. Is the mixing process the part where Lindsey says he just turns the knobs until it sounds right? Maybe that's the problem.

Barbara

P. S. What's new with your group?