Day 3 - Recording session with Dave Draper

Well today was the last day of my recording session with Dave Draper.  In the morning, Dave spent some time mixing Harlequin and also added a few more bits here and there to make it even more uplifting!  Then we moved onto the recording of the main vocals for Siren, Radar and Hologram, which was done in stages so as not to knacker the old voice out.

Later in the afternoon, we basically sat down and went through, with not too much of a fine toothed-comb, finalising all of the tracks.  The main vocals we recorded earlier in the day, was then mixed and again a little bit of magic dust was sprinkled over them to give it that extra kick.   We also decided to experiment with a few ideas for backing vocals and harmonies and they've turned out fanstastic. 

When I first contacted Dave, my initial thoughts were that I just wanted your basic drum set, bass guitar and electric guitar set-up but I guess you don't really know how things will pan out once you get creative heads together and see where your muse takes you.  Our muse took us down the complete opposite route and we've ended up with a full-on production sound using electronic samples, whilst maintaining an acoustic feel.

I feel that this whole experience for me has been a major learning curve in terms of how things are musically put together.  When people are listening to new music and say they don't like it but without giving a valid reason why, it just proves that they aren't "listening" properly.  There's so much bloody hard work that goes into making music that people just don't realise.  I think that's why I love discovering new bands and singers cuz I can listen as well as feel a song.

Feeling a bit sad now actually as it just seems to be over in a flash, so I'd better get writing some more songs and start saving the pennies!  I have, however, come away with some badass tracks that I'm extremely proud of!! 

A big THANK YOU to Dave for lending me your musical expertise AND also a big THANKS to Elly!

Now it's time for the next stage....!!!

Thanks again for reading folks - love ya, Sarah, xxx!

Day 2 - Recording Session with Dave Draper

As I'm writing this blog, I've got way too many thoughts floating around in my head about the direction I want to go with this E.P.  I'm just really excited for it to be heard by people.

I have had my eyes opened as to the how the whole recording process is done.  There's a lot of stuff involved not just musically but understanding how people work.  I'm just amazed at how much can be achieved with a bit of forward-thinking. 

Anyway, today was spent putting flesh on the 4 songs. 

Radar has had a level of re-structuring to it, to give it a more chilled out feel but with a driving force behind it still and we've obtained what we set out to achieve.  The next step for this one is to record the final take of the vocals.  It's got kind of a Ellie Goulding feel to it, we've still maintained it as an acoustic guitar track but have added electronic parts to it.  It sounds blooming brilliant and I'm extremely happy with it.

Harlequin has some extra gold dust sprinkled onto it and sounds so uplifting.  My Michelle Branch/Jewel/Sheryl Crow influences really show up on this track.

The afternoon was spent recording the final take guitar tracks for the 4 songs and a final take vocal track for Harlequin, which didn't really take all that long to be honest.

I've been the most chilled out I've ever been making this E.P. My initial thoughts was that it was gonna be quite stressful but it isn't, it's actually the complete opposite and I can honestly say that I'm enjoying the whole experience so much so that I don't want it to end.  I'm feeling a bit sad that tomorrow is the last day of recording tracks and finalising them.

Anyway, needs must - got another early start tomorrow.

Thanks again for reading about my experience, much love, Sarah, XXXXXXXXXX

Day 1 - Recording Session with Dave Draper - Jan 2011

Well today was an early start for me heading down to Evesham in the wee hours of the morning.  Traffic wasn't too bad and got down there (a bit lost) just after 9.00.  Anyway, got to Dave's studio and we was straight to work.  I can't describe to you how efficient Magic Dave is, yes Magic Dave with his magical musical wand who has managed to wow me all day and he's such a lovely bloke and makes you feel at ease.  Feeling lucky that I've got him on board!!!

Anyhow, today was spent mainly recording guide tracks just so Dave can get a feel for the song.  We then concentrated mainly on creating ideas for just the two songs, Harlequin and Hologram.

Not wanting to give too much away, both songs have taken on a new feel, especially Hologram.  We've basically, laid down drums using drum programming and bass and also a bit of electric guitar.  Hologram has a beautiful string section in it that just puts a lump in your throat and it's giving that extra dynamic feel.  Harlequin has that radio-friendly; driving theme to it that just makes you feel uplifted.

We've had a really good productive peak today which will continue tomorrow where we will be working on the other 3 songs and who knows how they will come out like.  We will also be laying down acoustic guitar and vocal tracks at some point.

So there's your little insight as to what we've both got up to today.  Anyway, not very rock n roll I know but I'm off to bed for a fresh start in the morning.

Thanks for taking the time to read about my experience!

Much love, Sarah, xxx

Gig tonight - 23 Jan 2011

Sarah Oreggio is playing at The Old Moseley Arms Pub in Balsall Heath tonight alongside Singer Song-writer, Louise Kilbride.

The night starts at 9.00 and Sarah Oreggio will be on a 9.30.

First gig of 2011

Hello everyone!!! My first gig of 2011 will be at The Old Moseley Arms pub in Balsall Heath on 23 January.  The night starts at 9.00 pm and also features other bands and artists from Birmingham.  Come along and show your support for a night of fanstastic live music.

Thanking you all, xx!!!