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WCA #580 with Sanford Parker

WCA #581 with Sanford Parker – Chicago Music Scene, Independent Artists, Managing Overhead, and Getting out of Florida.

Matt welcomes Producer /engineer/mixer and film composer Sanford Parker. As an artist he’s performed and released albums with extreme heavy and industrial bands like Black Cross Hotel, Corrections House, Mirrors for Psychic Warfare and Minsk. Throughout the years he’s collaborated with members of Sonic Youth, Ministry, Napalm Death and Neurosis as well as producing and mixing albums for Darkthrone, Voivod, Brutal Truth, Pelican, YOB, Hide, Youth Code, Wovenhand, Rwake, Local H and many others.

Takeaways

  • Sanford opened his studio in March 2020, just before the pandemic.
  • He prefers working with independent artists and punk music.
  • Chicago’s music scene is affordable compared to other major cities.
  • Managing overhead is crucial for running a successful studio.
  • Sanford transitioned to mixing in the box for efficiency.
  • He values genuine relationships with artists over bureaucracy.
  • The pandemic shifted his work focus back to mixing.
  • The flexibility of working remotely with clients.
  • Learning to navigate financial discussions with bands.
  • Independent music often allows for quicker decision-making.

Links and Show Notes:

Matt’s Rant: Your Journey

Credits:

  • Guest: Sanford Parker
  • Host/Engineer/Producer: Matt Boudreau
  • WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell
  • The Voice: Chuck Smith

Video Interview

WCA #580 with Steve Chadie

WCA #580 with Steve Chadie – LIVE FROM NAMM 2026

In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes back GRAMMY-winning recording engineer and producer Steve Chadie live from the AudioScape booth at NAMM 2026 to talk about recording bands. Steve has worked with WIllie Nelson, Los Lonely Boys, Wilco, and the Supersuckers.

In This Episode, We Discuss:

  • Mic placement and monitoring.
  • The bleed
  • Band dynamics
  • Food and energy levels
  • Expectations
  • Creative ruts.
  • Being invisible
  • Headphone mixes
  • Less substance abuse

Links and Show Notes:

Matt’s Rant:The People

Credits:

  • Guest: Steve Chadie
  • Host/Engineer/Producer: Matt Boudreau
  • Editing: Anne-Marie Pleau
  • WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell
  • The Voice: Chuck Smith

Video Interview

WCA #579 with Fran Cathcart

WCA #579 with Fran Cathcart – Studio Ownership, Herbie Hancock, Stress, and Moving to the Bay Area

Matt welcomes producer/engineer/composer Fran Cathcart. Fran having just moved to the Bay Area from New York recounts his journey in studio ownership, working with Herbie Hancock, and facing down serious challenges that would make most throw in the towel, yet he still keeps going.

In This Episode, We Discuss:

  • Studio Ownership
  • Herbie Hancock
  • Early Digital Recording
  • Divorce
  • Covid
  • Getting Sued
  • Stress
  • Moving to the Bay Area

Links and Show Notes:

Matt’s Rant:Client Communication

Credits:

  • Guest: Fran Cathcart
  • Host/Engineer/Producer: Matt Boudreau
  • WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell
  • The Voice: Chuck Smith

Video Interview

WCA #578 with Joe Caithness

WCA #578 with Joe Caithness – Pro Audio Minimalism, Finding Balance, Decluttering, Embracing Whimsy, and The Bell Curve

In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes back Mastering Engineering Joe Caithness. Joe has worked on mastering the soundtrack music for games such as Borderlands, and Tekken, the soundtracks for the Netflix movie Close, bands such as Don Martin 3 and Palooka 5.

In This Episode, We Discuss:

  • Pro audio minimalism focuses on efficiency and workflow.
  • Post-pandemic, many have adapted to home studios.
  • Stripping down gear can lead to better productivity.
  • Quality of work is not determined by the amount of gear.
  • The bell curve illustrates the journey of audio engineers.
  • Social media can exacerbate gear obsession.
  • It’s important to focus on skills rather than equipment.
  • Minimalism can reduce stress in the creative process.
  • Finding balance in audio engineering is crucial.
  • Personal interests outside of audio can influence spending. Being debt-free allows for better control over finances.
  • Intentional communication can streamline workflows and reduce confusion.
  • Minimalism in workflow can lead to increased efficiency.
  • Decluttering can help identify unnecessary subscriptions and expenses.
  • Applying minimalism to business practices can enhance focus and productivity.
  • The thrill of the hunt can lead to unnecessary clutter if not managed.
  • Intentional equipment purchases can prevent buyer’s remorse.
  • Every purchase has a domino effect on workflow and finances.
  • Embracing whimsy can make minimalism enjoyable and fulfilling.
  • Sharing resources can benefit others and reduce personal clutter.

Links and Show Notes:

Matt’s Rant:

Credits:

  • Guest: Joe Caithness
  • Host/Engineer/Producer: Matt Boudreau
  • WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell
  • The Voice: Chuck Smith

Video Interview

WCA #577 with Justin Gray

WCA #577 with Justin Gray – Immersive, Balancing Family Support, Belief In Your Work, Early Surround, & Being Engineer and Artist

In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes back Producer, Mixer & Mastering Engineer Justin Gray. Based in Toronto, Canada, Justin has worked on projects for Snoop Dogg, Brandy, Nicky Youre, Mother Mother, Arkells, Jamie Fine, Lola Brooke, Upsahl, and The Sheepdogs.

In this conversation, Justin Gray discusses his album ‘Immersed’, exploring the creative process, technical aspects of immersive audio, and the importance of community and collaboration in music production. He shares insights on funding, marketing strategies, and the role of social media in promoting his work. The discussion also touches on the challenges of balancing family life with artistic pursuits and the significance of believing in oneself as an artist.

In This Episode, We Discuss:

  • Innovative immersive audio
  • Early surround experiments
  • Community-driven collaboration
  • Canadian arts funding
  • Value of physical media
  • Social media promotion
  • Impact of recognition
  • Balancing family support
  • Belief in the work
  • Engineer and Artist

Links and Show Notes:

Matt’s Rant:Forming Your Own Bubble

Credits:

  • Guest: Justin Gray
  • Host/Engineer/Producer: Matt Boudreau
  • WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell
  • The Voice: Chuck Smith

Video Interview

WCA #576 with Alan Evans

WCA #576 with Alan Evans – Health, Creativity, Reflections, Client Interactions, and 2026

In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes back producer, engineer, mixer, multi-instrumentalist, singer and, songwriter, Alan Evans. Alan is of course well known as a member of his band Soulive. He’s also been a past guest on WCA #133 and 328.

Matt Boudreau and Alan Evans reflect on the past year and share insights on creativity, health, and the music industry. They discuss the importance of recharging creatively, embracing technology, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle to ensure longevity in their careers. The duo also emphasizes the significance of simplicity in music production, the role of album artwork, and the power of community and connection in fostering creativity. As they look ahead to 2026, they express excitement for new projects and the journey of self-discovery in their artistic endeavors.

In This Episode, We Discuss:

  • Reflections on the past year
  • Creativity and staying inspired
  • Recharging creatively
  • Health, wellness, and career longevity
  • Simplicity in music production
  • The role and value of album artwork
  • Community and connection as creative fuel
  • Looking ahead to 2026
  • New projects on the horizon
  • Self-discovery through artistic work

Links and Show Notes:

Matt’s Rant:What’s Inspiring Me

Credits:

  • Guest: Alan Evans
  • Host/Engineer/Producer: Matt Boudreau
  • WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell
  • The Voice: Chuck Smith

Video Interview

WCA #575 with Michael Beinhorn

WCA #575 with Michael Beinhorn – Remote Production, Artist Development, Risk Taking, High-End Listening, and Unique Voices

In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes back producer Michael Beinhorn who has worked with The Red Hot Chili Peppers, Soundgarden, Herbie Hancock, Korn, Marilyn Manson, Weezer, Ozzy Osbourne, Hole, Cuco, Aerosmith & Violent Femmes. Michael originally appeared on WCA #029 back in 2015.

In This Episode, We Discuss:

  • Music production
  • Remote production
  • Pre-production
  • Music critique
  • Mainstream music
  • AI in music
  • Unique voices
  • Music industry
  • Creativity in music
  • Music technology
  • Artist development
  • Risk-taking in music
  • Music analysis
  • Recording industry
  • Listening setup
  • Collaboration

Links and Show Notes:

Matt’s Rant:Auto Pilot

Credits:

  • Guest: Michael Beinhorn
  • Host/Engineer/Producer: Matt Boudreau
  • WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell
  • The Voice: Chuck Smith

Video Interview

WCA #574 with Stephen DeAcutis

WCA #574 with Stephen DeAcutis –Owning Your Time, Getting It Right At The Source, Solving Audio Problems, and Performing Live

In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes mixer, producer, engineer, writer, and performer Stephen DeAcutis. Stephen has worked with Vanilla Fudge, Gladys Knight, Travers and Appice, Corey Glover, and Cyndi Lauper.

In This Episode, We Discuss:

  • Owning Your Time
  • Embracing Old and New
  • Celebrating the New Generation
  • Solving Audio Problems
  • Working At Home
  • Communicating with Musicians
  • Getting It Right At The Source
  • Performing Live

Links and Show Notes:

Matt’s Rant: Staying Positive

Credits:

  • Guest: Stephen DeAcutis
  • Host/Engineer/Producer: Matt Boudreau
  • WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell
  • The Voice: Chuck Smith

Video Interview

WCA #573 with Natalie Bibby

WCA #573 with Natalie Bibby – AIR Studios, Direct to Disc, Attended Sessions, MPG, and Connecting with Others

In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes mastering and lathe cutting engineer Natalie Bibby who works at AIR Studios in the U.K.. Natalie has worked with Kraftwerk, Bring Me The Horizon, Lola Young, Jimmy Eat World, The Vaccines, Lewis Capaldi, GIRLI, and CATTYShe’s also led a world-class mastering workshop at Peter Gabriel’s Real World Studios, UK.

In This Episode, We Discuss:

  • Early musical influences
  • Starting in recording & mixing
  • University training & goals
  • Metropolis internship lessons
  • Moving into mastering
  • Live cuts & direct-to-disc
  • Half-speed mastering overview
  • Learning & mentorship insights
  • Joining AIR Studios
  • AIR Studios
  • Value of attended sessions
  • Managing client expectations
  • Hybrid mastering workflows
  • How mastering engineers listen
  • Common mixing problems
  • Music Producers Guild
  • Challenges for studios
  • AIR’s cutting reputation
  • Vinyl cutting process
  • Mastering vs. cutting
  • American mastering mystique

Links and Show Notes:

Matt’s Rant:How we present ourselves

Credits:

  • Guest: Natalie Bibby
  • Host/Engineer/Producer: Matt Boudreau
  • WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell
  • The Voice: Chuck Smith

Video Interview

WCA #572 with Alex Crescioni

WCA #572 with Alex Crescioni – Extreme Metal, Techniques, Clients, Survival, and Letting Go

In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes back guitarist, producer, and mixing/mastering engineer Alex Crescioni to talk about Extreme Metal production. Alex is known for his work with Burton C. Bell, Deverauxx, and Siglos.

In This Episode, We Discuss:

  • Extreme Metal
  • Techniques
  • Sounds
  • Room Tone
  • Business
  • Survival
  • Letting Go

Links and Show Notes:

Matt’s Rant: Spread the Work

Credits:

  • Guest: Alex Crescioni
  • Host/Engineer/Producer: Matt Boudreau
  • WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell
  • The Voice: Chuck Smith

Video Interview

WCA #571 with Don Setaro

WCA #571 with Don Setaro –DEEP DIVE – Gary Young Hospital For The Chemically Insane

In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes back producer/engineer/mixer and record label owner Don Setaro. Matt and Don get into a deep dive discussion of the re-issue process for former Pavement drummer, Gary Young’s album “Hospital For The Chemically Insane”. Former WCA guests Dan Johnson and Justin Perkins chime in to talk about their role in the process.

In This Episode, We Discuss:

  • Pavement
  • Gary Young
  • Detective Work
  • Restoration
  • Tape Rescue
  • Mastering from CD
  • Re- Issue
  • Keeping the Vibe

Links and Show Notes:

Matt’s Rant: Structure

Credits:

  • Guest: Don Setaro /Dan Johnson/Justin Perkins
  • Host/Engineer/Producer: Matt Boudreau
  • WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell
  • The Voice: Chuck Smith

Video Interview

WCA #570 with Ken Sluiter

WCA #570 with Ken Sluiter – A deep dive into stereo rebuilds for Atmos mixing

In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes back producer/engineer and mixer Ken Sluiter to delve into the intricate process of stereo rebuilds for Atmos mixing. They discuss the challenges of finding and organizing original material, the importance of matching to comparison masters, and the unique aspects of each project. Ken shares insights on the ingestion process, the role of research in understanding original recordings, and the potential of AI tools in audio restoration. The discussion also touches on the future of mixing and the evolving landscape of music production.

In This Episode, We Discuss:

  • Stereo rebuilds for Atmos mixing.
  • The process involves gathering original assets and recreating mixes.
  • Each project is unique, requiring a tailored approach.
  • Matching to a comparison master is crucial for accuracy.
  • Researching the original recording can provide valuable insights.
  • AI tools can assist in stem separation but have limitations.
  • Finalizing mixes involves careful listening and adjustments.
  • The future of audio mixing may involve more AI and technology.
  • Understanding the original recording process is key to successful rebuilds.

Links and Show Notes:

Matt’s Rant: Music Expo/AES/NAMM

Credits:

  • Guest: Ken Sluiter
  • Host/Engineer/Producer: Matt Boudreau
  • WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell
  • The Voice: Chuck Smith

Video Interview

WCA #569 with Dan Johnson & Catherine Vericolli

WCA #569 with Dan Johnson & Catherine Vericolli – Audio Restoration/Archive Deep Dive

In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes back Dan Johnson of Audio Archiving Services and Catherine Vericolli of Central Audio Archiving to do a deep dive into the world of audio archiving, preservation, and restoration.

In This Episode, We Discuss:

  • Analog Tapes
  • Analog Machines
  • Modular Digital Multitracks
  • DAT Machines
  • DASH Machines
  • Pro Digi
  • Retrospect
  • Mezzo

Links and Show Notes:

Links to Dan

Links to Catherine

Matt’s Rant: This AI Thing

Credits:

  • Guest: Dan Johnson & Catherine Vericolli
  • Host/Engineer/Producer: Matt Boudreau
  • WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell
  • The Voice: Chuck Smith

WCA #568 with John Cunibert

WCA #568 with John Cuniberti – OneMIc, Dynamics, Acoustics, Placement, and 2 Tracks

In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes back John Cuniberti who produces, engineers, mixes and masters records for many artists including most notably Joe Satriani, Sammy Hagar, The Dead Kennedys, and Chicken Foot. John originally appeared WCA #005 back in 2014 and returns to do a deep dive into his OneMic recording concept.

In This Episode, We Discuss:

  • OneMic Series
  • Dynamics
  • Acoustics
  • Placement
  • Tempo
  • 2 Track as Multi-Track
  • Ribbon Mics

Links and Show Notes:

Matt’s Rant: Focus of Your Attention

Credits:

  • Guest: John Cuniberti
  • Host/Engineer/Producer: Matt Boudreau
  • WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell
  • The Voice: Chuck Smith

Video Interview

WCA #567 with Gena Johnson

WCA #567 with Gena Johnson – Listening to Artists, Keeping Overhead Low, Career Champions, and Glitter Walls

In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes Grammy Winning producer/engineer/mixer Gena Johnson who has worked with Chris Stapleton, Jason Isbell, Brandi Carlile, and John Prine.

In This Episode, We Discuss:

  • Leave your ego at the door
  • Make people feel comfortable
  • Listen to the artist
  • Labels are business partners
  • Word of mouth work
  • Feminine energy in production
  • Women in the industry
  • Classical voice training for 12 years
  • Internship at Welcome 1979
  • Learned tape machines and soldering
  • Assisting at Nashville studios
  • First number one record
  • Working at RCA Studio A
  • Rewiring Studio A intensively
  • Mentor Michael Wagner’s influence
  • Champions Vance Powell and Daryl Thorp
  • Walls painted with glitter
  • Keep overhead low
  • Good attorney and manager combination

Links and Show Notes:

Matt’s Rant: Sonic Intrusion Revisited

Credits:

  • Guest: Gena Johnson
  • Host/Engineer/Producer: Matt Boudreau
  • WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell
  • The Voice: Chuck Smith

Video Interview

WCA #566 with Mike Blodgett

WCA #566 with Mike Blodgett – Isolated Ground, Ground Rods, Isolation Transformers, Power Conditioners, and Electrical Safety

In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes back engineer/producer electrician, Mike Blodgett to discuss electricity and pro audio!

In This Episode, We Discuss:

  • Isolated Grounds
  • Isolation Transformers
  • Ground Rods
  • Power Conditioners
  • Apartment Power
  • Home Studio Power
  • Electrical Safety

Links and Show Notes:

Matt’s Rant: How You Listen

Credits:

  • Guest: Mike Blodgett
  • Host/Engineer/Producer: Matt Boudreau
  • WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell
  • The Voice: Chuck Smith

Video Interview

WCA #565 with Hans-Martin Buff

WCA #565 with Hans-Martin Buff – Tearjerkers, Peter Gabriel, Real World, Binaural, and ATMOS

In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes back engineer/producer and 3D audio geek, Hans-Martin Buff to discuss mixing Peter Gabriel’s I/O as well as his own project Tearjerkers. 

In This Episode, We Discuss:

  • Tearjerkers
  • Peter Gabriel
  • Real Word Studios
  • Binaural Mixing
  • ATMOS
  • Format Haters

Links and Show Notes:

Matt’s Rant: Focused Discussion

Credits:

  • Guest: Hans-Martin Buff
  • Host/Engineer/Producer: Matt Boudreau
  • WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell
  • The Voice: Chuck Smith

Video Interview

WCA #564 with Steve Dierkens

WCA #564 with Steve Dierkens – Career Path Shift, Joy in Work, Financial Balance, Global Collaborations, and Redefining Success

In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes Engineer, Producer, Mixer Steve Dierkens. In this conversation, Steve shares his journey from as a succesful enginer working in film in California to a professional audio engineer and producer living in Canada. He discusses his early influences, the transition to a professional career, and the lifestyle changes that came with moving to Canada. Steve reflects on the challenges of building a studio, the importance of family, and the reevaluation of his career goals. He emphasizes the need for joy in music production and offers insights into financial perspectives in the audio profession. The conversation also touches on remote collaborations, social media challenges, and the definition of success and happiness in the industry.

In This Episode, We Discuss:

  • Career path shift
  • Family-driven choices
  • Moved to Canada
  • Studio-building challenges
  • Joy in work
  • Financial balance
  • Valued client relationships
  • Global collaborations
  • Social media pressure
  • Redefining success

Links and Show Notes:

Matt’s Rant: More on Streaming vs Physical Media

Credits:

  • Guest: Steve Dierkens
  • Host/Engineer/Producer: Matt Boudreau
  • WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell
  • The Voice: Chuck Smith

WCA #563 with Jon Rezin

WCA #563 with Jon Rezin– Working Remotely in Ohio, Mixing, Saving Time, Skills and Network

In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes Grammy winning Mixer, Producer, & Mastering Engineer Jon Rezin who has worked with Natalia Jimenez, One Direction, Andy Grammer, BoA, and Santana.

In This Episode, We Discuss:

  • Working Remotely in Ohio
  • Mixing
  • Saving Time
  • Skills
  • Network
  • Building Relationships
  • The Masked Singer
  • American Idol

Links and Show Notes:

Matt’s Rant: Streaming vs Physical Media

Credits:

  • Guest: Jon Rezin
  • Host/Engineer/Producer: Matt Boudreau
  • WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell
  • The Voice: Chuck Smith

Video Interview

WCA #562 Steve Genewick talks Spinal Tap

WCA #562 – STEVE GENEWICK talks SPINAL TAP

In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes back Recording and Mixing Engineer Steve Genewick. Steve gives us the full behind the scenes look into the making of the new Spinal Tap record “The End Continues”. From the initial phone call to the release of the record and movie we get into the details.

In This Episode, We Discuss:

  • Initial Phone Call
  • Where to Record
  • Setup
  • Mics, Preamps, etc..
  • Mixing
  • Mixing in ATMOS
  • WIG Day!
  • In The Box
  • Cracking Up

Links and Show Notes:

Matt’s Rant: Perfection

Credits:

  • Guest: Steve Genewick
  • Host/Engineer/Producer: Matt Boudreau
  • WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell
  • The Voice: Chuck Smith

Video Interview