Choosing the right metal producer for bands, especially in heavy metal, For bands, especially in heavy metal, can make or break your success. So much of what makes metal great is capturing a very specific sound — something not all producers can deliver. You don’t want a yes-man; you want someone who elevates your sound.
Researching Your Metal Producer Options
Before committing to a metal producer, have several names in mind. Start by looking at bands you like and seeing who produced their records. That way, you know they produce a style of music you enjoy.
Consider factors like genre experience, availability, cost, and more. You can sometimes find this information on a producer’s website, but you’ll often need to contact them for details.
Word of Mouth in the Metal Scene
While choosing a metal producer might have once required “knowing a guy,” valuable information is now readily available. Aside from checking liner notes, joining metal-focused Facebook Groups, Discord channels, or Subreddits can be very helpful.
Musicians and producers participate in these communities, allowing for valuable networking and answering your questions. You can learn about a producer’s turnaround times, pricing, recording process, or general vibe.
Online Directories for Music Producers
Producers can be more than just a set of ears. Some are great songwriters or even musicians who can add to your work. Online directories are a fantastic resource for discovering talented individuals with a proven track record in the industry. They’re like social media, with producers sharing insights into their work, thoughts on the music industry, and what they look for in bands. Here are a few popular options:
- Soundbetter
- BandLab
- AirGigs
- Fiverr
Remember, the most experienced producers with a long-term relationship with quality products are often featured in industry publications, not gig sites like Fiverr (though there are exceptions.). Keep your eyes and ears open to possibilities beyond these directories to discover the perfect producer for you.
Choosing Metal Producer Based On Your Budget
Finding potential candidates to mix and master your music is great, but it’s meaningless if they’re outside your price range. Some producers charge a premium for their services, sometimes as high as $15,000 per song. While the final product might sound immaculate, this could seriously strain your budget. Thankfully, there are ways to save money.
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Mixing and Mastering Can Be Done Separately
If hiring a dedicated mixer and mastering engineer isn’t feasible, consider separate freelancers specializing in metal mixing and mastering. Splitting your budget into two less-expensive endeavors makes the overall cost more manageable.
Look for Package Deals
Many producers offer package deals that bundle recording, mixing, and mastering services at a discounted rate. This cost-effective method saves money on production, especially if you need help with recording. This is why home recording often saves bands money; by the time they get to the mixing/mastering stage, the producer has less work to do, so costs are lower.
Choosing a Metal Producer That Understands Your Genre
Metal, to an outsider, might all sound the same. But those in the metal scene know that couldn’t be further from the truth. Each microgenre of metal has unique sounds, requiring a different mindset from your average producer.
You wouldn’t hire a renowned 80’s glam rock producer for your blackened crust punk album. Apply this same logic and attention to detail when choosing who handles mixing/mastering for your project. Finding a producer who understands your genre’s technical and stylistic aspects is crucial to bringing out the best in your music.
Technical Proficiency With Heavy Music
Seek out metal producers experienced in working with heavy instrumentation, such as distorted guitars, fast-paced drumming, and aggressive vocals. Look for producers who can retain the music’s raw power during processing without making it sound sterile. Their ability to accomplish this will be evident in their portfolio.
Check their loudness levels, too. A producer hyper-focused on achieving an ultra-loud master will only result in a fatiguing listen for fans. The best producers know how to achieve a loud mix without compromising quality.
Subgenre Familiarity Is a HUGE Bonus
Subgenres of metal, like black metal, death metal, or power metal, have unique sonic characteristics and production techniques. Finding a producer who’s passionate about and familiar with your subgenre is a major plus.
The right producer will instinctively know which guitar tones, drum sounds, vocal effects, and overall mix approach will complement your music’s intensity. Choosing a metal producer doesn’t have to be scary; go into it informed, and you’ll be well on your way to making your next metal release your best yet.
Conclusion
Choosing a metal producer might seem daunting, but it can be incredibly exciting. The perfect producer can launch a band’s career. Research various producers and request quotes; you never know who has an opening.
