What is your process for mixing rock music (ie do you start with drums, leveling, EQ etc)?

Mixing rock music requires a systematic and well-defined process. The following steps outline a recommended methodology for achieving a professional-sounding mix.

1. Session Preparation

• Ensure that the session has been properly organized and labeled, including all tracks and stems.
• Check for any technical issues, such as phase problems or clipping, and resolve them before proceeding.

2. Drums

• Begin with the drum tracks as they form the foundation of the mix.
• Start by setting the levels of each drum track and balance them accordingly.
• Apply equalization (EQ) to each track to remove any unwanted frequencies and enhance the desired sound.
• Consider adding compression to control the dynamic range and maintain consistency in the drum sound.

3. Bass

• Next, mix the bass track.
• Set the level and balance of the bass with the drum tracks.
• Apply EQ to shape the sound of the bass, making sure it sits well in the mix.
• Compression can also be used to control the dynamic range of the bass and maintain consistency.

4. Guitars

• Mix the rhythm guitar tracks next.
• Set the levels and balance of the guitar tracks with the drums and bass.
• Use EQ to shape the sound of the guitars and make them sit well in the mix.
• Consider adding effects, such as reverb or delay, to enhance the sound of the guitars.

5. Vocals

• Mix the lead and backing vocal tracks.
• Set the levels and balance of the vocal tracks with the other elements of the mix.
• Apply EQ to remove any unwanted frequencies and enhance the desired sound of the vocals.
• Consider using compression to control the dynamic range of the vocals and maintain consistency.

6. Overdubs and Effects

• Mix any additional elements, such as keyboard or percussion overdubs.
• Set the levels and balance of these elements with the other elements of the mix.
• Apply EQ and effects as desired.

7. Finalizing the Mix

• After all elements have been mixed, review the entire mix and make any final adjustments as necessary.
• Balance levels and panning, and adjust the overall EQ of the mix.
• Consider adding a stereo bus compressor to control the dynamic range and glue the mix together.

In conclusion, mixing rock music requires a systematic approach, starting with the foundation of the mix (drums) and working through each element until the mix is complete. The use of EQ, compression, and effects can help shape the sound of each element and enhance the overall mix. (Source: “Mixing Secrets for the Small Studio” by Mike Senior)