04/08/2015
Enjoying babies first family vacation! In the interim I've started using Slate Digital LLC's Batch Commander (in lieu of my lusted after Raven MTX) which I have to say is awesome. Being able to make a macro that automatically beat detectives using the kick and snare, then separates and conforms all the drum tracks to those hits, all with one button so all I've got to do is adjust fades to ensure no transients were lost is amazing. Like the coolest. The built in layouts are cool, but I also love being able to make my own, and just wait till you get your hands on version 2.0. iOS remote control, improved legibility on screen, etc. it's gonna rule. I know people have a love/hate relationship with Slate, but personally I love the products, and I love people who are passionate about what they do, so keep on being you Steven Slate. You make great products, and I'm quite happy with my new session template with Virtual Mix Racks loaded with Virtual Console Collection and Revival modules across all tracks, along with Virtual Tape Machine instances on my drums, guitar busses and master buss, Trigger 2 on my kick and snare tracks (if needed), then rounding it all up with a VCC Mixbuss, Virtual Buss Compressors, and a VTM instance of 2 track 1/2" tape on the master. So yeah, all Slate on the template. Sorry if I sound like an ad, I'm just a big fan. Also for those using Trigger, the new Blackbird studio expansion sounds AMAZING.
Anyway, enough gear talk. Tracking with SPEx has gotten started, we've got basics done for one track, three to go. Looking forward to experimenting around more on this record than on the last one, and incorporating some of Alec's live vocal FX into the recording process. Check back for updates on this project and others!