Martin and Billy discuss recording sessions, pre-production, band collaboration, studio creativity, live sound and Stevie Wonder’s Songs in the Key of Life.

How much preparation should a band do before recording, and how much should be left to develop in the studio?

Billy shares his recent experience recording drums and bass for his band's new EP at Apollo Audio, including the value of demos, guide tracks, tempo mapping, alternate takes and having the whole band involved in the process. Good preparation can save valuable studio time, but it also creates opportunities for new ideas that might never have emerged in rehearsal.

Martin reflects on the producer's role in developing recordings, how advance listening helps shape production decisions, and why capturing spontaneous moments can be just as important as following the original plan. He also shares some experiences from running live sound for the recent We Will Rock You theatre production.

The album discussion celebrates 50 years of Stevie Wonder's Songs in the Key of Life. Martin and Billy explore the extraordinary musicianship, layered vocal arrangements, instrumental performances, musical influences and ambitious production behind the record, alongside questions about song length, sequencing and how the way we listen to albums has changed.

Topics include:

• Recording a band EP at Apollo Audio
• Why demos and pre-production matter
• Tempo, guide tracks and arrangement decisions
• Capturing spontaneous studio ideas
• The value of having everyone involved
• Live sound and We Will Rock You
• Stevie Wonder's Songs in the Key of Life
• Layered vocals, drums and musicianship
• Song length, editing and production choices
• Album sequencing and the vinyl listening experience

Find Apollo Audio online:

apollo-audio.co.uk

The Apollo Audio Podcast is hosted by record producer Martin Lumsden and musician and studio owner Billy Hills and is recorded at Apollo Audio Hertford.

Each episode offers insight into songs, records, and the creative process, drawn from real-world experience in studios and making music.

Also available to watch on YouTube and Spotify

📍 www.apollo-audio.co.uk

📷 Instagram: @apolloaudiopodcast

📧 apolloaudiopod@gmail.com

A Froody Music Production. Production and editing by Martin Lumsden.

www.froodymusic.com

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