Recording Engineer Archives - A. Focx Productions

Production Credits: Mix Engineer, Mastering Engineer

TLC Rainbow recording and mixing was an honor to be part of. I worked as the tracking engineer and mixing engineer for TLC’s English-language recording of “Rainbow.” The song appeared on the official L’Arc-en-Ciel Tribute album, released in 2012 to celebrate the band’s 20th anniversary. It was a unique opportunity to work on an international project that brought together artists from different musical backgrounds.

TLC Rainbow Recording and Mixing Process

The TLC Rainbow recording and mixing process focused on capturing the emotion and energy of the performance. My goal was to deliver a polished and modern sound. I recorded and mixed the vocal performances of T-Boz and Chilli. I also paid close attention to clarity, balance, dynamics, and vocal definition.

Additionally, I wanted to preserve the spirit of the original song while creating a fresh mix for TLC’s signature style. As a result, the final production translated consistently across streaming services, digital platforms, CDs, and modern playback systems.

Production Team

The project also included acclaimed songwriter and producer Marti Frederiksen. His credits include Aerosmith, Def Leppard, Mötley Crüe, Buckcherry, Daughtry, and Ozzy Osbourne. Working together, we created a polished recording for the Japanese market. At the same time, we remained respectful of the original performance.

TLC and Japan

Japan has long been an important market for TLC. The group’s album FanMail earned Million Certification from the Recording Industry Association of Japan (RIAJ). Consequently, TLC built a loyal fan base in Japan. This made their recording of “Rainbow” a natural fit for the tribute album.

Final Thoughts

The TLC Rainbow recording and mixing project remains one of the most rewarding international collaborations of my career. Overall, I’m proud to have contributed to a release that introduced TLC’s interpretation of “Rainbow” to audiences around the world. Furthermore, the project demonstrates how professional recording and mixing can unite different musical styles while preserving the emotion and character of the original song.

If you’re looking for professional recording, mixing, or mastering services, visit my Mixing Services, Mastering Services, or Contact page to discuss your next project.

Production Credits: Recording, Engineering,

Digital Engineering, Mixing, Mastering

Newsted – Soldierhead Recording, Mixing, and Mastering

I was proud to provide the recording, mixing, and mastering for Newsted Soldierhead, the lead single from the Metal EP. The release marked Jason Newsted’s return to heavy metal and showcased the aggressive sound that fans had been waiting for. My goal was to preserve the raw energy of the performance while delivering a polished, commercial-quality production.

Recording, Mixing, and Mastering Process

The Newsted Soldierhead project was recorded at Creation Lab Studio. Throughout the production, I focused on clarity, punch, balance, stereo imaging, and dynamic impact. Every stage of the recording, mixing, and mastering process was carefully completed to ensure the song translated consistently across streaming platforms, digital downloads, YouTube, headphones, car stereos, home audio systems, and professional studio monitors.

Additionally, the production maintained the aggressive guitar tone, powerful rhythm section, and classic thrash metal influence that defined the project. Every decision was made to preserve the intensity of the performance while meeting today’s commercial audio standards.

Commercial Success

Following its release, Newsted Soldierhead received strong support from heavy metal fans worldwide. Furthermore, the single helped drive the success of the Metal EP, which reached #1 on the iTunes Heavy Metal Chart and debuted at #62 on the Billboard 200. These accomplishments marked a successful return for Jason Newsted after his years with Metallica.

Lasting Impact

More than a decade after its release, Newsted Soldierhead continues to receive streams and remains a favorite among fans of thrash metal and classic heavy metal. As a result, the song has become one of the defining releases from Jason Newsted’s post-Metallica career.

Working on Newsted Soldierhead remains one of the highlights of my career as a recording, mixing, and mastering engineer. It was an honor to contribute to a release that continues to connect with listeners around the world. Whether working with major-label artists or independent musicians, I focus on delivering professional audio production that preserves the artist’s vision while providing the clarity, balance, punch, and consistency expected from today’s music industry.