After months of post-recording mixing with Phoneticsound, the Martingales now hold the complete master of their second album. Beginning their recording in February 2010, Andrew Beltaos and the band worked alongside engineer and producer Jeff Olson to create a dynamic collection of new songs. I have personally enjoyed listening to their new album with it’s authentic ambient sounds and layers. Today I got the opportunity to speak with Andrew about his experience recording here at Phoneticsound.

We had some good laughs sharing stories and discussing Jeff’s quirks and humor. Here is part of our conversation:

Jenesa:”How long have you been playing?”

Andrew: I have been playing since 1993 and the band was formed in January 2007.

Jenesa: “Have you recorded before?”

Andrew: We recorded our first album in December 2007 at Phoneticsound and released it in May 2008. Our second album we just recorded this February with Jeff and just got copies of the masters a few days ago.

Jenesa:”What were your expectations before coming to record?”

Andrew: When we recorded our first album it was pretty basic; just the three instruments played the same as we would a live show. We wanted it to be similar to our first album but with more complexity. So this time I had lots of production ideas for embellishments using layers and additional instruments. I had more of a vision in mind this time.

Jenesa: “How did your experience differ from your expectation?”

Andrew: It turned out to be more work than we had thought. We spent a lot of time on small specific parts. It was hard work but very fun.

Jenesa: “What was your recording experience like?”

Andrew: Exciting! I felt like there were endless possibilities; like the world was at my finger tips. Jeff knows how to take my ideas and create the sounds I have envisioned. We recorded 4 days in a row 9-5 so it was intense and tiring at times but it was A LOT OF FUN!

Jenesa:”Was it easy or difficult to capture the performance you wanted?”

Andrew: For the most part, it was easy.

Jenesa:”What was your experience like working with Jeff as an engineer and producer?”

Andrew: Jeff really knows what he’s talking about. I feel like sometimes he can read my mind. He really feels music the same way I do. I would explain what I was looking for and he would know what needed to be done to make it happen.

Jenesa:”What were some of the highlights or favorite moments from recording?”

Andrew: The jokes! Jeff has a good sense of humor. At the studio there is no window between the control room and the live room. So you have to wear headphones to hear Jeff as you’re tracking and he would say the most funny things. It’s like he’s in your head!

Chatting with Andrew was fantastic. He was so positive and articulate. I was impressed with his quick responses to my questions. Andrew also gave me a heads up that the Martingales are playing tonight at the Taphouse here in St. Albert. So if you get a chance I would suggest you take the opportunity to see their live show! I’m heading off now to transform into my fashionable painting attire to tackle the studio stairs.

Visit www.themartingales.ca to stay updated on the band, their upcoming album, and CD release!

Jenesa