Many people ask, "what exactly is mastering?". In my own words, mastering is to a mix, what lacquer is to paint. The mix is where the creative vision is brought to fruition, where the story is told. Mastering seals this work of art, so that its ready to be seen by the world. The mix can contain broad, bold brush strokes, or tiny details only visible upon close obvservation, while the laquer must be applied with great care and a pristine finish, building each layer with no imperfections. It makes all the colours pop, deepens textures and preserves the art beneath it.

Mastering has become my primary focus because of its unique fulcrum-point between technicality and creativity. My specific interests, under the broad tree of music, feel most connected to the practice of mastering.

My initial intention when approaching any track is to explore the characteristics that make it engaging, and are signature to the artist. Then, I decide whether I need to adjust, preserve, or support them.