The Garage Band Handbook - Chapter Five: Demos Part Two

The real fun in the studio is after all the tracks are recorded. The band may play live, all at the same time, or they may play one by one over-dubbing each instrument in sync with the one previously recorded, but either way each instrument and vocal is recorded onto a separate track. In this day of digital recording the number of tracks is often infinite. It used to be standard to record in either four, eight or twenty four track. Remember, the more tracks you record, the more tracks have to be mixed together for the final product. 
Each track can be given a combination of different sound effects such as distortion, flange, tremolo or harmonizer and then placed in it’s own spot in the mix through the use of reverb, echo and pan. With so many options the time in the studio can pile up quickly. Keep in mind that the recording is just the first step. You’ll need to duplicate the tape onto cassettes along with cover art and cases. You’ll also need a nice cover letter and mailing costs for sending out all those tapes to local clubs, parties, concerts in the park events and the like. If you can set up a nice, atmospheric live set and video tape it, that can be a very effective demo for getting live shows even if the music and the sound is less than polished. Again, it will be the attitude, confidence, stage demeanor and visual style that the potential booker will be impressed by, not necessarily the music.

No comments:

Post a Comment