Working Class Audio

Matt welcomes producer/engineer/composer Fran Cathcart. Fran having just moved to the Bay Area from New York recounts his journey in studio ownership, working with Herbie Hancock, and facing down serious challenges that would make most throw in the towel, yet he still keeps going.
In This Episode, We Discuss:
Studio Ownership
Herbie Hancock
Early Digital Recording
Divorce
Covid
Getting Sued
Stress
Moving to the Bay Area

Links and Show Notes:
Fran's Site

Matt's Rant: Client Communication
Credits:
Guest: Fran Cathcart
Host/Engineer/Producer: Matt Boudreau
WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell
The Voice: Chuck Smith

In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes back Mastering Engineering Joe Caithness. Joe has worked on mastering the soundtrack music for games such as Borderlands, and Tekken, the soundtracks for the Netflix movie Close, bands such as Don Martin 3 and Palooka 5.
In this episode we discuss Pro Audio Minimalism.
In This Episode, We Discuss:
Pro audio minimalism focuses on efficiency and workflow.
Post-pandemic, many have adapted to home studios.
Stripping down gear can lead to better productivity.
Quality of work is not determined by the amount of gear.
The bell curve illustrates the journey of audio engineers.
Social media can exacerbate gear obsession.
It's important to focus on skills rather than equipment.
Minimalism can reduce stress in the creative process.
Finding balance in audio engineering is crucial.
Personal interests outside of audio can influence spending. Being debt-free allows for better control over finances.
Intentional communication can streamline workflows and reduce confusion.
Minimalism in workflow can lead to increased efficiency.
Decluttering can help identify unnecessary subscriptions and expenses.
Applying minimalism to business practices can enhance focus and productivity.
The thrill of the hunt can lead to unnecessary clutter if not managed.
Intentional equipment purchases can prevent buyer's remorse.
Every purchase has a domino effect on workflow and finances.
Embracing whimsy can make minimalism enjoyable and fulfilling.
Sharing resources can benefit others and reduce personal clutter.

Links and Show Notes:
Joe's Site
Joe on WCA #329

Matt's Rant:
Credits:
Guest: Joe Caithness
Host/Engineer/Producer: Matt Boudreau
WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell
The Voice: Chuck Smith

In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes back Producer, Mixer & Mastering Engineer Justin Gray. Based in Toronto, Canada, Justin has worked on projects for Snoop Dogg, Brandy, Nicky Youre, Mother Mother, Arkells, Jamie Fine, Lola Brooke, Upsahl, and The Sheepdogs.
In this conversation, Justin Gray discusses his album 'Immersed', exploring the creative process, technical aspects of immersive audio, and the importance of community and collaboration in music production. He shares insights on funding, marketing strategies, and the role of social media in promoting his work. The discussion also touches on the challenges of balancing family life with artistic pursuits and the significance of believing in oneself as an artist.
In This Episode, We Discuss:
Innovative immersive audio
Early surround experiments
Community-driven collaboration
Canadian arts funding
Value of physical media
Social media promotion
Impact of recognition
Balancing family support
Belief in the work
Engineer and Artist

Links and Show Notes:
Justin's Site
Links to all streaming Platforms
Band Camp
Immersive Audio Album
Justin on WCA #451

Matt's Rant: Forming Your Own Bubble
Credits:
Guest: Justin Gray
Host/Engineer/Producer: Matt Boudreau
WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell
The Voice: Chuck Smith

In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes back producer, engineer, mixer, multi-instrumentalist, singer and, songwriter, Alan Evans. Alan is of course well known as a member of his band Soulive. He's also been a past guest on WCA #133 and 328.
Matt Boudreau and Alan Evans reflect on the past year and share insights on creativity, health, and the music industry. They discuss the importance of recharging creatively, embracing technology, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle to ensure longevity in their careers. The duo also emphasizes the significance of simplicity in music production, the role of album artwork, and the power of community and connection in fostering creativity. As they look ahead to 2026, they express excitement for new projects and the journey of self-discovery in their artistic endeavors.
In This Episode, We Discuss:
Reflections on the past year
Creativity and staying inspired
Recharging creatively
Health, wellness, and career longevity
Simplicity in music production
The role and value of album artwork
Community and connection as creative fuel
Looking ahead to 2026
New projects on the horizon
Self-discovery through artistic work

Links and Show Notes:
Al's Site
Orb Audio
Microcosm Audio
Al on WCA #133
Al on WCA #328

Matt's Rant: What's Inspiring Me
Credits:
Guest: Alan Evans
Host/Engineer/Producer: Matt Boudreau
WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell
The Voice: Chuck Smith

In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes back producer Michael Beinhorn who has worked with The Red Hot Chili Peppers, Soundgarden, Herbie Hancock, Korn, Marilyn Manson, Weezer, Ozzy Osbourne, Hole, Cuco, Aerosmith & Violent Femmes. Michael originally appeared on WCA #029 back in 2015.
In This Episode, We Discuss:
Music production
Remote production
Pre-production
Music critique
Mainstream music
AI in music
Unique voices
Music industry
Creativity in music
Music technology
Artist development
Risk-taking in music
Music analysis
Recording industry
Listening setup
Collaboration

Links and Show Notes:
Michael's Site
Michael on WCA #029

Matt's Rant: Auto Pilot
Credits:
Guest: Michael Beinhorn
Host/Engineer/Producer: Matt Boudreau
WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell
The Voice: Chuck Smith