A. Focx Productions

Making Your Music Come Alive

Recording Engineer

T.L.C. – Rainbow

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Production Credits: Mix Engineer, Mastering Engineer

TLC Rainbow Recording and Mixing

I had the opportunity to work as the tracking engineer and mixing engineer for TLC’s recording of “Rainbow,” an English-language cover of the song “Niji” by the legendary Japanese rock band L’Arc-en-Ciel.

The recording was created for the official L’Arc-en-Ciel Tribute album, released in June 2012 to celebrate the band’s 20th anniversary. The tribute project brought together artists from different genres and countries to honor one of Japan’s most influential rock bands.

For TLC, the project represented a unique collaboration that blended the group’s signature vocal style with the melodic and emotional songwriting that helped make L’Arc-en-Ciel one of the most successful rock bands in Japanese music history.

Working with TLC

As the tracking engineer and mixing engineer, my role was to capture and enhance the vocal performances of TLC’s T-Boz and Chilli while preserving the emotion and character of the original composition.

The project required careful attention to vocal balance, clarity, dynamics, and overall presentation. Every element of the mix needed to support the song’s message while allowing the vocals to remain the focal point of the production.

Because the release was intended for the Japanese market and dedicated fans of both TLC and L’Arc-en-Ciel, maintaining the integrity of the original song while creating a fresh interpretation was an important part of the process.

Production Team

The project featured assistance from acclaimed songwriter and producer Marti Frederiksen, whose career includes work with Aerosmith, Def Leppard, Mötley Crüe, Buckcherry, Daughtry, Ozzy Osbourne, and numerous other major rock artists.

Working alongside a team of experienced music professionals helped ensure the tribute release met the high standards expected by fans of both TLC and L’Arc-en-Ciel.

TLC and Japan

Japan has played an important role throughout TLC’s career. In 1999, TLC became the first international R&B group to receive a Million certification from the Recording Industry Association of Japan (RIAJ) for their multi-platinum album FanMail.

As a result, the group developed a strong and loyal following throughout Japan. Over the years, TLC frequently released exclusive content and special recordings for the Japanese market, making “Rainbow” a natural addition to their international catalog.

The L’Arc-en-Ciel Tribute Project

Released by Ki/oon Music Inc., a subsidiary of Sony Music Labels Inc., the L’Arc-en-Ciel Tribute album celebrated two decades of success for one of Japan’s most influential rock bands.

The tribute project introduced L’Arc-en-Ciel’s music to new audiences while allowing established artists to reinterpret some of the band’s most beloved songs.

TLC’s version of “Rainbow” stands out as one of the unique crossover recordings on the album, combining contemporary R&B vocals with the emotional songwriting and musical style that made the original song a fan favorite.

A Memorable International Project

Projects like “Rainbow” are especially rewarding because they bring together artists, producers, and engineers from different musical backgrounds and cultures.

Working with TLC on this international tribute release remains a memorable part of my audio production career. The project continues to serve as an example of how music can connect audiences across genres, languages, and countries while honoring the legacy of an iconic band.

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.