A. Focx Productions

Making Your Music Come Alive

Mixing Engineer

Tech N9ne – Straight Out the Gate

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Production Credits: Mixing

Straight Out the Gate Remix Production

One of the most exciting projects I have mixed was the Straight Out the Gate Remix, featuring Tech N9ne, Krizz Kaliko, Serj Tankian of System of a Down, and guitarist John 5. This collaboration brought together major talent from both the hip-hop and rock worlds. As a result, the track required a powerful mix with clarity, energy, and impact.

The project was produced by Scott Stevens, known for his work with Shinedown, Halestorm, and Daughtry. After completing production, Scott handed the session over to me for mixing. My goal was to take his vision and create a finished record that delivered maximum excitement and power.

Mixing the Straight Out the Gate Remix

From the start, it was clear this was not a typical rap record. Instead, the song blended Tech N9ne’s rapid-fire vocals, Krizz Kaliko’s dynamic performance, Serj Tankian’s unmistakable voice, and John 5’s aggressive guitar work.

One of the biggest challenges was balancing heavy rock elements with modern hip-hop production. The guitars needed to sound massive. However, they could not cover the vocals. Likewise, the drums needed impact without overwhelming the mix. The bass also needed weight while remaining tight and controlled.

Every frequency range required careful attention. As a result, each instrument had its own space while remaining part of a cohesive production. The Straight Out the Gate Remix required a mix that could balance rock and hip-hop elements while maintaining clarity and impact.

Vocal Clarity and Energy

Tech N9ne’s vocals were a major focus throughout the mix. His delivery contains incredible speed and detail. Therefore, every lyric needed to remain clear, even during the busiest sections of the song.

Using EQ, compression, automation, and level balancing, I kept his vocals front and center. At the same time, I preserved the aggressive energy of the track.

Serj Tankian added another level of intensity. His voice is instantly recognizable to rock fans around the world. Because of this, it was important to preserve his signature sound while integrating it naturally into the production.

The John 5 Guitar Sound

John 5’s guitar performances helped create the rock foundation that gives the remix its crossover appeal. To achieve this, special attention was given to stereo imaging and frequency balance.

The guitars needed to remain powerful and wide. However, they could not compete with the vocals or rhythm section. Careful placement within the mix allowed every element to work together.

Straight Out the Gate Remix Fan Response

Fans immediately responded to the sound of the remix. Over the years, listeners have praised the aggressive mix, powerful drums, massive guitar tones, and vocal clarity.

In addition, many fans consider the Straight Out the Gate Remix one of the strongest examples of rap and rock successfully combined into a single production. More than a decade later, the track continues to receive streams and positive feedback.

Straight Out the Gate Remix Success

Released on Tech N9ne’s Something Else Deluxe Edition in 2013, the album became one of the year’s most successful independent releases.

The album debuted at #4 on the Billboard 200 and sold approximately 58,000 copies during its first week. Furthermore, it reached #2 on both the Billboard Top Rap Albums and Billboard Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums charts.

Today, the various versions of “Straight Out the Gate” have accumulated tens of millions of streams worldwide. Meanwhile, the Scott Stevens Remix continues to attract listeners across Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube, Amazon Music, and other major platforms.

Final Thoughts

Projects like this are especially rewarding because they combine outstanding performances with exceptional production. Working under the direction of Scott Stevens and helping bring his vision to completion was a privilege.

More than a decade later, the Straight Out the Gate Remix continues to attract listeners worldwide. It remains one of the most memorable rap-rock crossover productions I have had the opportunity to mix.

Newsted – Soldierhead

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Production Credits: Recording, Engineering,

Digital Engineering, Mixing, Mastering

Jason Newsted Soldierhead Recording, Mixing, and Mastering

One of the most exciting projects of my career was working as the recording, mixing, and mastering engineer for Jason Newsted’s debut solo single, “Soldierhead.”

Released as the lead single from the Metal EP, the song marked Jason Newsted’s return to aggressive heavy metal. As a result, fans quickly embraced the release and welcomed his return to heavier music.

Recorded at Creation Lab Studio, “Soldierhead” combined powerful guitar riffs, driving bass lines, aggressive vocals, and classic thrash metal influences. At the same time, the production used modern recording and mixing techniques to create a powerful sound.

Recording Soldierhead

My first goal was to capture the raw energy of the performances. Therefore, every recording decision focused on preserving the intensity of the musicians while maintaining clarity and balance.

In addition, I worked to ensure that every instrument retained its character. This approach helped create a solid foundation for the mixing and mastering stages.

Mixing Jason Newsted Soldierhead

The mixing process focused on impact, separation, and clarity. The guitars needed to sound massive. However, they could not overpower the vocals or rhythm section.

Likewise, the drums needed punch and energy without becoming overwhelming. Careful EQ, compression, and automation helped every element maintain its place within the mix.

As a result, the final mix delivered the aggressive sound metal fans expected while remaining clear and balanced.

Mastering Jason Newsted Soldierhead

The mastering stage brought the entire production together. I focused on loudness, punch, low-end control, and overall consistency.

Furthermore, I worked to ensure the song translated effectively across streaming platforms, digital downloads, video releases, headphones, and traditional audio systems.

The goal was simple. I wanted listeners to experience the same impact regardless of how they heard the song.

Jason Newsted Soldierhead Success

Fans immediately responded to “Soldierhead.” In addition, the song generated significant attention throughout the metal community.

The release helped drive the success of the Metal EP. The EP reached #1 on the iTunes Heavy Metal Charts and debuted at #62 on the Billboard 200.

Today, “Soldierhead” continues to attract listeners around the world. Millions of streams and views demonstrate the lasting appeal of Jason Newsted’s return to heavy music.

Final Thoughts

Projects like “Soldierhead” are especially rewarding because they combine strong performances with high-quality production.

Working with Jason Newsted on his debut solo project was a privilege. More importantly, the song remains an important part of my portfolio of recording, mixing, and mastering credits.

Today, Jason Newsted Soldierhead continues to connect with metal fans worldwide. It remains a great example of combining classic thrash metal energy with modern audio production.

 

Bury the Rest – Lying in Repose

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Production Credits: Mix Engineer, Mastering Engineer

Bury the Rest Lying in Repose Mixing and Mastering

Bury the Rest Lying in Repose is a powerful modern rock release that showcases the band’s aggressive sound, talented musicians, and emotional songwriting. I had the opportunity to contribute to this project and help deliver a polished production that captured the energy and intensity of the performance.

Released in 2014, the song combines heavy guitars, driving rhythms, and powerful vocals. As a result, it became a standout track within the band’s catalog and helped introduce their music to rock and metal fans.

Throughout the production process, my focus was on creating a balanced and powerful listening experience while keeping the raw emotion of the performance intact.

The Production Process

The production of the song required careful attention to clarity, punch, and overall balance. Every instrument needed its own space within the mix while still contributing to a powerful wall of sound.

Special attention was given to guitar definition, vocal presence, low-end impact, and stereo imaging. In addition, the final master was adjusted to sound great across streaming services, digital downloads, headphones, car stereos, and home audio systems.

Meanwhile, professional mixing and mastering help listeners experience music as intended regardless of where they hear it. Therefore, every stage of the process focused on maximizing both impact and clarity.

Fan Response

Fans of modern hard rock and alternative metal continue to discover this release through digital platforms and the official music video.

The official music video premiered on October 1, 2014, and has generated thousands of views online. Many listeners have praised the heavy sound, strong performances, and modern production style.

Today, the track continues to attract listeners through streaming platforms and online music communities. As a result, the release has helped expand awareness of the band among rock and metal audiences looking for new independent music.

Legacy of the Release

Projects like this are rewarding because they combine strong songwriting, energetic performances, and professional audio production.

More than a decade after its release, Bury the Rest Lying in Repose remains an important credit within my portfolio of audio production work. It serves as another example of my commitment to helping artists achieve professional results through high-quality recording, mixing, and mastering.

For more information about my professional mixing and mastering services, visit the Samples page and Contact page on my website. You can also learn more about the band through their official website and music platforms.

The Dead Daisies We’re An American Band (Live)

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Production Credits: Mix Engineer

The Dead Daisies We’re An American Band is a powerful live version of the legendary Grand Funk Railroad classic. I proudly mixed this recording during the band’s acclaimed Live & Louder era. The track features an all-star lineup that includes John Corabi, Doug Aldrich, Marco Mendoza, Brian Tichy, and David Lowy.

Capturing The Live Experience

My goal was simple. I wanted listeners to feel like they were standing in the crowd at a Dead Daisies concert.

Rather than creating a polished studio sound, I focused on preserving the excitement of the live performance. As a result, the mix delivers the energy, emotion, and atmosphere that fans experience at a live show. Additionally, I worked to keep every instrument clear while maintaining the power of the full band.

Mixing Approach

For The Dead Daisies We’re An American Band, I built a large guitar sound while keeping strong separation between the rhythm and lead guitars. At the same time, I kept John Corabi’s vocals front and center so every lyric remained clear and impactful.

Furthermore, I enhanced the punch of the rhythm section to give the performance greater drive and intensity. I also preserved the audience reactions because they help place the listener directly inside the venue. Together, these elements create an immersive rock-and-roll experience.

Song Performance

Originally released by Grand Funk Railroad in 1973, “We’re An American Band” became one of rock music’s most recognizable anthems. Later, The Dead Daisies brought their own hard rock style to the song and introduced it to a new generation of fans.

The official video has generated more than 3.75 million YouTube views. In addition, the song has accumulated millions of combined streams and views across digital platforms worldwide.

Live & Louder Success

The band released the song during the promotion cycle for Live & Louder. The album reached the Top 10 of the UK Rock & Metal Albums Chart. It also charted in Germany, Switzerland, Austria, and several other European territories.

Ultimately, The Dead Daisies We’re An American Band remains a fan favorite. It showcases the band’s signature blend of classic rock attitude, modern hard rock power, and world-class musicianship.

For additional examples of my work, visit my Samples page. You can also learn more about my professional Mixing and Mastering Services.

The Dead Daisies – Long Way To Go

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Production Credits: Mixing

The Dead Daisies mixing and mastering project was a rewarding opportunity to work with one of modern rock’s most respected bands. Known for their powerful performances, world-class musicianship, and classic hard rock sound, The Dead Daisies have built a strong international following among rock fans.

As a professional mixing and mastering engineer, my goal is always to enhance the impact, clarity, and energy of every recording while preserving the character of the performance. The The Dead Daisies mixing and mastering process focused on delivering a polished and dynamic sound that translated effectively across streaming services, digital downloads, radio broadcasts, CD, vinyl, and modern playback systems.

The Dead Daisies are known for combining classic rock influences with a modern production approach. Their music features powerful vocals, driving rhythms, memorable guitar performances, and strong songwriting. Additionally, their recordings require careful attention to detail to ensure every instrument maintains its presence and impact within the mix.

Professional mixing and mastering play a critical role in helping rock music reach its full potential. Furthermore, these processes help create consistency, balance, and clarity across a wide range of listening environments. As a result, listeners can experience the music exactly as intended by the artists and producers.

Working on projects connected to bands of this caliber continues to be one of the most rewarding aspects of my career. The The Dead Daisies mixing and mastering work remains an important part of my portfolio and reflects my commitment to delivering professional audio production for artists across the rock genre.

To learn more about my professional mixing and mastering services, visit the Samples page or Contact page on my website.