Recording live with just one, or two takes is a serious challenge for any band. It is an undertaking that requires an intense practice schedule, proper coordination between artists and recording engineer, as well as confidence in oneself to accept the performance captured. It is also a challenge, that when accomplished, stands as a testament to a band’s hard work. The recording in and of itself is a document and a reward to the artists, delivered to them in the final format they choose. When a band, or engineer decides to introduce further elements into this recording construct the results can garner even further achievements.
Little Big Beat Studio has produced a YouTube channel (LittleBigBeatLive) that ups the ante on the live recording format. They have introduced video capture of performances, and have brought in small, live audiences (equipped with headphones) who sit feet away from the musicians. The performance space is set up in the fashion of a living room, creating a level of intimacy few music fans and musicians get to experience. As the audience take to seats that surround the performers they bear witnesses to the power of live music, the talent radiating from the musicians, and the power of recording live.
Two stand out performances I recommend from this channel are Josh Dion’s (of Paris Monster) “A Vision Complete,” and Trixie Whitley’s “New Frontiers.” Both performances stand as multimedia monuments to the skill of these artists and allow the listener/viewer to get a feel for the level of connection the live audience had to the artists at that point in time. The energy emitting from Josh Dion, Trixie Whitley, and Whitley’s band is palpable, it is as if you can feel it through your speakers. I would love to see artists become inspired by this approach. I would love to see more studios open their doors to events like this. Finally, I would love to see those who want to throw house shows (but are not sure how to handle noise ordinances and PA equipment) take note of what Little Big Beat Studio is doing. It is truly special and unique.