5/5
Just finished a 3-day session with Soulstice Band. Three things that came to mind: 1) The whole experience was amazing. The vibe is low key and comfortable. All employees, from interns learning the ropes all the way up to Don Salter himself, were kind and generous with their time and expertise. Don opened up the vaults of his vintage equipment: Hammond organ with original Leslie, vintage Wurlitzer suitcase, custom guitars, microphones and mixers. We really got the sound we wanted; 2) We worked with Damien, the lead engineer. He is the real deal. He was an integral part of the team, and really helped us think differently about performing versus recording. Also song structure, voicing and instrumentation were greatly improved with his input. His editing skill and speed are phenomenal. We recorded, overdubbed and got rough mixes of SIXTEEN songs in three days. In Damien, we got the role of a producer and engineer in the package of a new friend; 3) Everything Don Salter, the owner and Arizona music guru told us turned out to be true. This is rare in our experience, and we were wary about someone who is so upbeat and excited, laying out all the things you will do when there. But he steered us straight from the very beginning, and we greatly appreciate the fact that a businessman can be true, honest AND enthusiastic. The band is meeting soon to talk over the rough mixes and to plan our next visit to do mixing and mastering. You get more than you pay for at The Saltmine.
