THE “HOPELESS ROMANTICS” ALBUM
Also known as: The Seven Challenges of Album Production

Hopeless romantics believe in “true love” — despite repeated setbacks. These often begin innocently enough, but over time, the hopeless romantic escapes into fantasy to cope — avoiding the real challenge of commitment and the fear of future disappointment.

To wear the badge of a hopeless romantic is, in a way, to confess that there's no real hope of finding the romance you seek — often because the object of desire has become an expression of a deeper fear, disguised and hiding just out of reach.

The dream of making an album can feel the same. You’re devoted…

There’s something magic about live albums.

They’re not always perfect. That’s kind of the point. They capture a moment — a messy, beautiful, full-hearted moment — and invite listeners to be there with you.

And when paired with great video, they can be unforgettable.

I’ve always been drawn to that combination. Bobby McFerrin’s Spontaneous Inventions, Coldplay’s Rush of Blood tour DVD, Mute Math’s Flesh and Bone, Justin Timberlake’s FutureSex/LoveShow, and Jason Mraz’s Live at Eagle Ballroom — all of them have left a mark on me.

So, when is the right time to record your

So many reasons! I think albums are the best, but I know singles rule the music business. They always have. There’s a bit of a romantic illusion that albums are the pinnacle — and believe me, I’m head over heels for that illusion. But the fact remains: one great song will do more for any music career than ten average ones ever could. Because of the nature of the music industry and the dominance of singles, I personally think releasing singles one at a time over a year or two can be a powerful way to build toward an album. You might...

One of my favourite records that pops up in my Spotify Wrapped every year isn’t a flashy cinematic masterpiece — it’s a quiet acoustic album. Just guitar, vocals, and the occasional piano or electric touch. I play it when I’m in the bath, packing up the studio, or driving home late. It holds me in that gentle space between relaxation and meditation. It won’t scare you, and it won’t put you to sleep — a rare balance. Sometimes, as artists and listeners, we need a break from the intensity of full production. That’s where unplugged records start to…

I love EPs — how could I not? The first record I ever released, over 20 years ago now, was an EP. I’m still pretty proud of it, but also a little embarrassed. In many ways, it shaped my life — and the lives of my bandmates, friends, family, and fans. That little EP I recorded in my trumpet player’s bedroom took on a life of its own. Regardless of whether the music still holds up, I’m really proud of that. Even now, at least once a year, someone stops me in the street to say hi because of it. So how can I not…

Because they kick ass!!

They’re just better … right?!

If you are even considering doing an album then it’s because you love them. You love them more than just one or even a few songs. You love long walks on the beach, not short strolls round the carpark.

You probably have a long list of albums you think sound good, or inspire you creatively, and some that changed your life.

Sure a good single is fun, and playlists are a vibe, but albums … albums are like sonic novels we read and reread over and over again! They are like the modern symphony, long and indulgent, full of rich movements and motifs.

When I built Sole Canopy Studio I had…

When was the last time you listened to music? I mean really listened. Listened and didn’t do anything else.

Just…
…listened.

I spent some time at the Soft Centre in Melbourne, a recording and immersive mixing studio owned and run by wizard engineer Christian Scallan. I was there learning about mixing in Dolby Atmos which was an ear opening experience to say the least.

During the tutorial Chris offhandedly pointed out the extent to which music has become a background experience. It so often dwells behind the task at hand. Phone in hand the tiny speaker plays the song that serves the instagram video. With a cinema ticket in hand you can hear it through an incredible immersive audio system, but still playing main support for the headliner, the images. Perhaps with dishes in hand it plays in the kitchen. Or booty in hand it plays…