Understanding Records, Second Edition: A Field Guide to Recording Practice

The revised edition of Understanding Records is the only book to introduce music production and its practical elements with no assumed prior knowledge. It includes exclusive print and video interviews with emerging and established recordists, "real word" audio examples, easy-to-understand explanations of each facet of the record production process, and information on new developments in recording practice and updated musical references.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 248 pages
Publication date: 25 July 2019
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing Plc

Understanding Records, the revised edition, is a comprehensive guide that unravels the musical language of recording practice, making it accessible to readers and students with an interest in the field. Drawing from a wealth of hit records produced since 1945, this book offers a chronological exploration of core production and engineering techniques, elucidating their workings, sounds, musical applications, presence in the Top 40 soundscape, and their role within the broader record-making process. As the sole book to introduce music production and its practical elements without assuming prior knowledge, the revised edition boasts an array of exclusive features:

Print and video interviews with emerging and established recordists, including Alex Chuck Krotz (Drake, Three Days Grace, Mother Mother), Kevin O Leary (Shawn Mendes, The Glorious Sons, Monster Truck), Alastair Sims (Rush, The Tragically Hip, Barenaked Ladies), Matt Shelvock (kingmobb, san holo, bitbird, DROLOE), and Russ Hepworth-Sawyer (Billy Ray Cyrus, Steve Earle, Amadou & Miriam).

Numerous "real word" audio examples, meticulously organized into easily accessible streaming playlists, culled from Juno-nominated sessions the author himself worked on, and from numerous other professional sources.

Easy-to-understand explanations of each facet of the record production process, devoid of technical jargon and clarifying terminology.

Up-to-date information on new developments in recording practice and updated musical references.

Expanded and reworked sections on mixing and audio mastering, providing in-depth insights into these critical stages of the recording process.

Understanding Records, the revised edition, is a valuable resource for musicians, producers, engineers, and music enthusiasts alike, offering a comprehensive and accessible understanding of the art and science of recording music. Whether you're a beginner seeking to embark on your recording journey or an experienced professional looking to refine your skills, this book will be your trusted companion on the path to musical excellence.

Weight: 412g
Dimension: 154 x 229 x 13 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781501342370
Edition number: 2 ed