We're back after a little summer pause — no guest this month, just Nate, Ben, and Neil catching up on all things music, gear, and a band that doesn't actually exist.

We dig into the rise of AI-generated artists (looking at you, Velvet Sundown), what it means for real musicians, and whether listeners even care how the music was made. Plus: a heated conversation about live backing tracks, summer gigs, mastering workflows, new speakers (hello, Barefoot Footprint 03s), and yes… Nate bought a tape machine.

Also: Florence steaks, Fort Wayne slides, Sweetwater shoutouts, and some low-key gig consulting.

🔑 Topics Covered In This Episode:

• 🎤 Velvet Sundown and the ethics of AI-generated bands
• 💽 Why AI music can’t be deconstructed like human-made recordings
• 🎧 New studio gear: Barefoot monitors & a vintage Ampex 440B tape machine
• 🧠 Nate’s take on speaker testing, low-end clarity, and tonal balance
• 🎛️ Ben's mastering workflow and loudness philosophy
• 🥁 Neil’s live rig upgrades & recording full band sets with an XR18
• 💡 Should bands record every show? (Yes.)
• 🛠️ Building a flexible PA system on a budget
• 🍕 Italian food, gelato, and Nate’s eternal love of pizza
• 🔥 Sweetwater Gear Exchange vs. Reverb
• 🎸 Live performance authenticity: what actually matters?

📣 Mentions & Shoutouts:

• Velvet Sundown on Spotify
• Rick Beato’s AI song breakdown
• Barefoot Footprint 03 Monitors
• XR18 Digital Mixer
• Sweetwater & Gear Exchange
• Billie Eilish / FINNEAS for speaker tests
• Maestro DMX for live light shows

We’d love to hear your thoughts on this episode! Drop us a line at sounddiscussionpodcast@gmail.com and find more information on our website: https://www.sounddiscussionpodcast.com.

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This month on Sound Discussion, we have the pleasure of chatting with the multi-talented Jeffrey Brockman, a singer-songwriter, Air Force veteran, and devoted family man. Jeffrey shares his journey through music, from performing in bands to focusing on his solo career, and the emotional depth behind his latest EP, "Tidal Waves."

In this candid conversation, Jeffrey opens up about the inspiration behind his songs, touching on themes of vulnerability, mental health, and the struggles many veterans face. He reflects on the cathartic process of songwriting and how music has played a crucial role in his own healing journey. With a decade-long effort culminating in "Tidal Waves," Jeffrey emphasizes the importance of authenticity and connection in his work.

We also discuss the creative process, including how collaboration with his friend Intro Newhouse has enhanced his music, and the unique challenges of balancing artistry with the realities of life. From the technical aspects of recording at home to the emotional weight of performing live, Jeffrey's insights provide a compelling look at the life of a modern musician.

This episode is a heartfelt exploration of the power of music and its ability to connect us all. Whether you're a musician, a music lover, or someone navigating life's challenges, Jeffrey's story is sure to resonate.

To follow Jeffrey Brockman and listen to his music, check out his Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/JeffreyBrockmanMusic and his Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeffreybrockmanofficial.

We’d love to hear your thoughts on this episode! Drop us a line at sounddiscussionpodcast@gmail.com and find more information on our website: https://www.sounddiscussionpodcast.com.

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Show notes created by https://headliner.app

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This month on Sound Discussion, we’re thrilled to welcome the talented mastering engineer Dan Millice, who has made waves in the music industry with his meticulous approach and impressive portfolio. Based in New York City, Dan has worked with an array of renowned artists including A$AP Rocky, Dolly Parton, and Julian Lage, earning a Grammy in 2023 for his work on Terry Lyne Carrington's album, "New Standards, Volume 1."

In this engaging episode, Dan shares his journey from a young music fan in Charlotte, North Carolina, with a band and a dream, to an award-winning mastering engineer. He discusses the importance of serving the song and the unique challenges that come with mastering different genres of music. With insights into his workflow, Dan emphasizes the significance of personal connections in the industry and how networking has played a vital role in his success.

Listen in as we gain valuable knowledge about the mastering process, including the tools Dan uses, his philosophy on templates, and the intricacies of working with artists to ensure their vision is realized. We also dive into the impact of the pandemic on the music scene and how it has shaped Dan's approach to his craft.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the behind-the-scenes world of music production and mastering. Join us for an insightful conversation that highlights the dedication and passion required to excel in the music industry!

To learn more about Dan Millice and his work, check out his website: https://www.millicemastering.com/.

We’d love to hear your thoughts on this episode! Drop us a line at sounddiscussionpodcast@gmail.com and find more information on our website: https://www.sounddiscussionpodcast.com.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Show notes created by https://headliner.app

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.