AndrewChapmanCreative: No Room Treatment, No Problem

AndrewChapmanCreative kicks off with a nostalgic nod to one of his earliest recording escapades. In 2011, he tracked a math rock band in a gritty, unpolished garage space. No acoustic cushy treatment here – we’re talking raw, reflective surfaces everywhere. Yet, against all odds, the sound was surprisingly solid. Chapman gives props to the band’s energy, suggesting that sometimes all you need is some punk spirit and a bit of elbow grease.

Andrew addresses a common misconception: that extensive room treatment is a must for good recordings. In his book, performance trumps all, and while room treatment is nice, it’s not the holy grail many claim it to be. He suggests musicians focus less on trying to achieve perfect acoustics and more on understanding the tools they have. In the chaotic landscape of home studios, pragmatism and innovation often beat perfection.

The core of Andrew’s message lies in embracing the unique challenges of one’s recording environment. He encourages budding producers to view recording as a game of chess – moving mics like pieces, strategizing against reflections, and utilizing every corner of the room. With a dose of DIY spirit and some slick problem-solving, he insists that you can overcome any acoustical hurdle. Whether it’s about microphone placement or deflecting reflections, Andrew makes it clear: recording is all about experimentation and having fun with it.