This week on Gig Gab, Brad Madix drops by for a masterclass in live sound mixing, sharing insights from his expansive career that’s touched the stages of Florence + the Machine, Sara Bareilles, Queensrÿche, Rush, and Linkin Park, to name a few. Diving into the nuances of live performance, Brad helps Dave Hamilton unpack the evolution of touring post-COVID. With a focus on the technical, discussions veer into the realms of using virtual sound checks, the intricacies — and benefits — of playing to a click, and the revolutionary impact of mixing with scenes. Brad emphasizes the importance of learning your mixer inside out and shares practical advice on managing levels and maintaining a reasonably loud stage volume. “Always Be Performing” isn’t just a catchphrase; it’s a philosophy that underscores their conversation, highlighting the constant adaptation and learning required in the dynamic world of live music production. In a lighter moment, Brad regales listeners with tales from the road, including humorous instances of mistaken identity involving Geddy Lee and another with Bruce Willis (well, someone in Japan certainly thought so!), offering a glimpse into the lighter side of touring life. The episode is a treasure trove of tips and tricks for live sound engineers of all levels. Packing for tour life, navigating the challenges of live streams, and the shift in touring dynamics since COVID are also dissected, providing a comprehensive overview for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of the live music scene. Whether you’re behind the mixer or dreaming of your next gig, this episode is a reminder that in the world of live music, the key to success is to “Always Be Performing”, embracing every challenge and opportunity with open arms and, especially, open ears. P.S. It turns out I lied at the end of the episode: I completely neglected to properly hit ‘record’ on the video stream, so that doesn’t exist. Sorry, folks! -Dave Chapters and Timestamps: 00:00:00 Gig Gab 415 – Monday, February 5th, 2024 Masterful Mixes & Mistaken Identities: Brad Madix’s Tips from Florence to Rush to Linkin Park, & Celebrity Mix-Ups Feb 5th: International Clash Day Brad’s First visit to Gig Gab in May, 2020 00:03:40 Diablo Digital (with Greg Price, Metallica’s FOH engineer) Sara Barellis – Live @ Hollywood Bowl Virtual Sound Check Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour Phish’s Live Streams 00:13:35 What’s Different About Touring since COVID? “Underplay” to test the tour and generate some buzz It’s Gotta Be Kinda Right! 00:20:37 Playing to a click 00:22:17 Monitors with TimeCode Brent Carpenter, Rush Monitor Engineer 00:24:37 Mixing with Scenes AVID S6L 00:30:13 Learn Your Mixer 00:35:19 SPONSOR: Bandzoogle’s new EPK plan starts at just $6.95 per month, and Gig Gab podcast listeners can go to Bandzoogle.com to try it free for 30 days, then use the promo code “giggabEPK” to get 10% off the first year...

In this week’s Gig Gab, Dave Brunyak–known now as Dallas Corbin–joins Dave Hamilton for a deep dive into the art of persona creation and redefining one’s place in the music world. They reminisce about Dave’s first appearance on the show back in 2015 and delve into the genesis of ‘Dallas Corbin,’ a persona that carved his path into country music. Inspired to learn more about country music after hearing Lee Brice’s “I Drive Your Truck,” Dave illustrates the freedom that comes when embodying a character. Emphasizing the show’s mantra, “Always Be Performing,” he discusses the importance of adapting to various environments and audiences. The conversation shifts to technical aspects, focusing on managing stage volume and the transition to using In-Ear Monitors (IEMs) for better sound control. Dave shares insights into his move towards an ampless setup, highlighting the use of the Helix Guitar Processor and the significance of selecting the right gear. He candidly discusses his guitar tone signal path and the practical benefits of going ampless — especially for someone using in-ear monitors — offering an insider’s view into the technicalities that can make or break a gig. The episode wraps with a Gear Gab segment, spotlighting affordable yet effective equipment like the CCA C-12 Universal Fit IEMs, proving that high-quality performance doesn’t always require a hefty price tag. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 414 – Monday, January 29th, 2024 Dave Brunyak on Gig Gab in 2015 (episode 26!) 00:02:43 Creating Dallas Corbin 00:05:14 Finding Country Music I Drive Your Truck by Lee Brice Music Video 00:14:10 Give Yourself a Character To Play A Character With a Costume 00:15:59 Playing the Miranda Lambert After Party 00:18:27 SPONSOR: Bandzoogle’s new EPK plan starts at just $6.95 per month, and Gig Gab podcast listeners can go to Bandzoogle.com to try it free for 30 days, then use the promo code “giggabEPK” to get 10% off the first year of the new EPK plan subscription. 00:19:54  The “Turn It Down” Litmus Test 00:25:20 Serve The Environment 00:27:05 Managing Stage Volume 00:31:51 Moving to In-Ear Monitors UE18+ Pro with the Ambient Ports ASI 3DME Universal IEMs with Ambient Condenser Mics  00:42:02 Guitar Tone Signal Path vs. IEMs The answer: go ampless Helix Guitar Processor The Box That Makes Your Gig Crappier Nectar’s in Burlington CCA C-12 00:55:41 Gig Gab 414 Outtro Heartland Radio (and on Facebook) Dallas Corbin Contact Us! feedback@giggabpodcast.com Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List

In this week’s Gig Gab episode 413, guest co-host Billy Butler joins Dave Hamilton to dive deep into the nuances of live performance and band dynamics. They kick off with a robust discussion on ‘four-walling’ a show, emphasizing the importance of asking “Why would people want to come and see your band?” Drawing from examples like The Dead South, Gay Bride of Frankenstein, and lessons from Samuel Beckett, they stress the significance of understanding audience appeal. The conversation pivots to the challenges of keeping an original band together, highlighting the crucial role of connecting with your audience and the art of being in the moment. The latter half of the podcast begins with a dive into the creative process behind Bitter Pill’s recent writing sessions, with mentions of inspirations like Betty Hutton’s “Murder, He Says” and the iconic Tom Waits. Billy and Dave then shift gears to practical advice, offering valuable lighting tips for live performances, including the strategic use of projectors and the effectiveness of a light at a 45-degree angle in front of the performer. They conclude with a powerful message: “Don’t Stop. Don’t Let Anyone Tell You ‘You Can’t’,” embodying the show’s catchphrase “Always Be(er) Performing”. This episode is a treasure trove of insights for musicians and performers aiming to elevate their stage presence and connect more deeply with their audiences. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 413 – Monday, January 22nd, 2024 00:02:04 Status Updates on Reddit 00:04:58 Four–walling a show The Dead South Gay Bride of Frankenstein * Samuel Beckett “Try Again. Fail Again. Fail Better Lollapalooza Ask “Why… Would people want to come and see your band?” 32:25 SPONSOR: Green Chef makes eating well easy with plans to fit every lifestyle. Go to GreenChef.com/60giggab and use code 60giggab to get 60% off, plus 20% off your next two months. 00:34:19 Keeping an original band together Connecting With Your Audience Be In The Moment 00:49:30 Bitter Pill Writing Sessions Betty Hutton – Murder, He Says Tom Waits 00:58:48 Lighting Tips Projectors Light number 1: In front of performer at 45-degree angle 01:10:21 Don’t Stop. Don’t Let Anyone Tell You “You Can’t” 01:14:54 Gig Gab 413 Outtro Bitter Pill the band Billy Butler on Facebook Contact Us! feedback@giggabpodcast.com Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List

In this week’s Gig Gab podcast, guest co-host Dan East joins Dave Hamilton as they dive into a rich discussion tailored for musicians and performance artists. The episode opens with Dan sharing his expert planning strategies for the upcoming NAMM show. He provides valuable insights on how to navigate such large-scale events, emphasizing the importance of goal-setting and strategic networking to make the most out of these gatherings. The conversation takes a playful turn with the (new?) segment “Grub Gab”, a nod to the often-overlooked aspect of gigging – the food musicians end up eating. Here, Dave and Dan exchange anecdotes and tips about maintaining a healthy diet and finding quality food amidst the hectic schedules on performance days. They highlight how food choices can impact energy levels and performance quality, adding a unique and practical dimension to the life of a performing artist. Throughout the episode, the theme of “Always Be Performing” resonates, reminding listeners that a musician’s performance isn’t just about the time spent on stage. It encompasses everything from preparation for industry events like NAMM to managing nutritional needs on the road. This holistic approach to a musician’s life, as shared by Dave and Dan, offers invaluable insights into balancing the demands of creativity, health, and professional growth in the ever-evolving world of music. Press play … and enjoy! 00:00:00 Gig Gab 412 – Monday, January 15th, 2024 Dan East Returns! 00:02:00 Planning for NAMM John Mlynczak – New NAMM CEO MTD Basses and Guitars 00:08:51 Yamaha’s Main Stage Saturday Night Show at NAMM Lawrence The Band Steven Kramer Glickman (from Big Time Rush) performing with our pal, Buddy Gibbons NAMM Schedule Dr. Flash Gordon’s Monkey Poop Theory 00:16:38 Substances and The Stage Anything that’s an excuse for you screwing up on stage: don’t do it! 00:24:15 Grub Gab Protein Bars VAM Band on Gig Gab Johnny Hayes Bass 00:30:43 Ask bar staff: Where do you eat? 00:32:45 SPONSOR: Bandzoogle’s new EPK plan starts at just $6.95 per month, and Gig Gab podcast listeners can go to Bandzoogle.com to try it free for 30 days, then use the promo code “giggabEPK” to get 10% off the first year of the new EPK plan subscription. 00:34:26 Recent gigs Jay Bernedo Power Station Studio in Florida Brandon Pratt from Red Helen 20k Podcast Dave Bang Drum, Dan Talk. It’s all good! Dave Collins Mastering 00:40:55 Producing with The Bolero Effect 00:43:20 Avoiding the Sterile, “Red Light Syndrome” Effect when in the studio Rob Freeman,

This week on Gig Gab, dive deep into the world of hearing health with Frank Wartinger, a renowned music audiologist and podcaster! Wartinger emphasizes the importance of protecting your ears, especially for musicians and avid music fans. He introduces the “Dangerous Decibels Three Part Solution” – a practical approach involving turning down the volume, walking away from excessively loud sounds, and consistently wearing ear protection. He highlights the significance of being a considerate onstage neighbor and viewing your band in terms of ‘entrées and side dishes,’ where you’re often the side dish, suggesting a balance in sound levels. Frank also recommends various earplugs like Etymotic ER20, Loop, Vibes, and Eargasm, stressing on the need for filtered earplugs to maintain sound quality while protecting hearing. Further into the show, the conversation shifts to the technical aspects of hearing protection, discussing the loss of specific frequencies during live performances and the importance of getting custom-molded earplugs for the best protection. Lists from JH Audio and Sensaphonics are recommended for finding reliable audiologists. The discussion then turns to the use of in-ear monitors (IEMs) and how to maintain safe levels to avoid long-term hearing damage, citing a 2008 study comparing stage monitor levels with IEMs. Wartinger and Hamilton remind listeners that in the world of music, it’s crucial to “Always Be Performing,” but that also means taking care of your health, especially your hearing, to ensure longevity in your career. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 411 – Monday, January 8th, 2024 Healthy Hearing with Music Audiologist, Frank Wartinger 00:01:30 Special Guest: Frank Wartinger, Music Audiologist and host of the Talking Ears podcast 00:03:19 Helping musicians protect their hearing Hypercusis Tinnitus 00:04:54 What Can we as musicians *and* music fans do to preserve and even improve our Hearing Health? Dangerous Decibels Three Part Solution Turn it down – 3dB down is twice as safe Walk away – be more careful of what you do with loud sounds…especially on gig days Protect Your Ears 00:12:00 Be A Good Neighbor (on stage) 00:15:48 Think of your band as being made up of entrées and side dishes — You’re usually the side dish! Heather Maluku Music Audiologist – Small Muscle Athletes 00:17:28 Ear plug recommendations Maynard James Keenan Plays Drums with Shotgun Filtered Earplugs Etymotic ER20 Loop Earplugs Dubs Earplugs (discontinued) Vibes Earaser Eargasm 00:28:26 Do you wear earplugs when doing live sound? Losing 3kHz-6kHz over the course of a two hour show 00:34:07 Getting Molds Done Good Lists to use

This week’s Gig Gab, guest co-host Mike Schulte joins Dave Hamilton as they dive into the diverse world of gigging. They kick off discussing New Year’s gigs, pondering if it’s a 2023 or 2024 gig – a unique time warp for musicians. The conversation shifts to the technicalities of in-ear monitors (IEMs), highlighting the need for updated molds as ears change shape. Brands like 64 Audio A-18s, JH Audio 16, and Alclair Dual XB get a mention. Next, they recount a tale of two gigs: one at Buddy Holly’s final venue, a memorable experience, and another, less stellar performance. The duo then ventures into the controversial territory of playing a gig while having Covid, discussing the use of Ableton to replace a sick band member, and mentioning the band Sleep Token. Further into the podcast, Dave and Mike delve into audience expectations and the curious phenomenon of disliking a song but enjoying playing it. They switch gears to “Gear Gab”, focusing on the CAT-SASS cable system for large stages, Splitter Snakes, and running your own mixer, emphasizing the importance of reliable gear in a musician’s arsenal. The concept of state-dependent learning is explored, highlighting the mental load musicians carry, especially when worrying for one’s bandmates. Lastly, they discuss the benefits and pitfalls of a silent stage, with a nod to the band Here Come the Mummies. Throughout, the hosts embody the show’s mantra, “Always Be Performing”, reinforcing the notion that regardless of the situation, a true performer adapts and thrives. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 410 – Tuesday, January 2nd, 2024 Guest co-host: Mike Schulte from The Pork Tornadoes 00:02:05 New Years’ Gigs (Dave and Mike) 00:05:20 Was this a 2023 NYE gig or 2024? 00:12:04 Your Ears Change Shape… Sometimes You Need To Update your IEM Molds 64 Audio A-18s JH Audio 16 Alclair Dual XB 00:17:58 One Great Gig…and one not-so-great gig Buddy Holly’s final venue 00:20:43 SPONSOR: Factor, America’s #1 Ready-To-Eat Meal Kit, can help you fuel up fast with flavorful and nutritious ready-to-eat meals delivered straight to your door. Visit FactorMeals.com/giggab50 and use code giggab50 for 50% off! 00:22:39 Playing a Gig with Covid Ableton to replace a sick band member Sleep Token 00:31:00 What does the audience want? 00:36:22 Disliking the song but enjoying PLAYING the song 00:41:14 Gear Gab: CAT-SASS cable system for drums Splitter Snake Midas M32 00:51:10 State-Dependent Learning Doing the worrying for the rest of the band 00:59:05 The Benefits and Pitfalls of a Silent Stage Here Come the Mummies 01:03:45 GG 410 Outtro Contact Us! feedback@giggabpodcast.com Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List

In this Gear Gab episode of Gig Gab, Dave Hamilton starts with a deep dive into the world of bass drum microphones, with a spotlight on the Behringer BA 19A, priced at an accessible $79. Dave compares this budget-friendly option against its more expensive counterparts, the Shure Beta 91A and the beyerdynamic TG D71C. He meticulously highlights how the Behringer BA 19A stands up to these industry staples in terms of sound quality, build, and overall value. This segment is a goldmine for both budding and seasoned drummers, providing a clear perspective on whether the Behringer BA 19A is just a budget clone or a serious contender in the realm of professional audio equipment. In the latter half of the episode, the focus shifts to two innovative products from Soundbrenner. First is the Soundbrenner Core, a multifunctional musical watch that combines a metronome, tuner, and more into a single wearable device. Dave explores how this gadget can enhance your practice and performance. Next, he reviews the Soundbrenner Minuendo variable earplugs, a must-have for any musician looking to protect their hearing without sacrificing audio clarity. Remember, in the world of Gig Gab and beyond, “Always Be Performing,” no matter the gear in your arsenal. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 409 – Friday, December 29th, 2023 00:01:36 Review: Behringer BA 19A ($79) AKG D112 ($234) Shure Beta 91A ($199 or $249) beyerdynamic TG D71C ($239) 00:07:45 Review: Soundbrenner Core Musical Watch with Metronome, Tuner, and more 00:12:14 Review: Soundbrenner Minuendo variable earplugs 00:14:18 GG 409 Outtro feedback@giggabpodcast.com Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List

In this week’s Gig Gab, dive into the nuances of being a musician and producer, all rolled into one. You’ll explore the art of practicing effectively, a skill that’s as crucial as it is often overlooked. Get insights from the legendary Rick Rubin and his book, “The Creative Act,” a must-read for any serious musician. The episode also touches on the timeless talent of Bruce Springsteen and delves into the intriguing collaboration between Rick Rubin and Paul McCartney in “McCartney 3,2,1.” The discussion then shifts to the practicalities of auditioning a bandmate. It’s not just about talent; it’s about fit and synergy. Remember, whether you’re in a band or just a group, the dynamics and chemistry matter immensely. The second half of the podcast features Dave recalling his experience filling in for the Houserockers with Paul in August 2016 – a testament to the importance of adaptability and skill in a musician’s life. The episode concludes with a crucial reminder: it’s absolutely fine to be in the music BUSINESS. Embrace it as a legitimate and vital aspect of your musical journey. And while certain chapters, like the Uptown Celebration, might come to an end, remember, in the world of music, as in life, it’s all about the mantra, “Always Be Performing.” Keep this phrase close to your heart as you navigate the ever-evolving landscape of music and performance. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 408 – Monday, December 18th, 2023 00:01:06 Practicing With — and Producing — Yourself 00:05:07 Vocal coaching Rick Rubin’s The Creative Act 00:07:27 Bruce Springsteen 00:10:13 Rick Rubin and Paul McCartney, McCartney 3,2,1 00:11:59 Auditioning a Bandmate 00:26:04 Is it a Band, or just a Group? 00:33:11 Dave filling for the Houserockers in August, 2016 00:35:32 Thanks to You! 00:40:15 Thanks to Paul! 00:42:57 It’s Ok To Be In The Music BUSINESS 00:44:19 Uptown Celebration Ends…for now? 00:49:07 GG 408 Outtro Contact Us! feedback@giggabpodcast.com Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List

In this week’s Gig Gab podcast with Paul Kent and Dave Hamilton you’ll dive into the essential nuances of social media for musicians. The key takeaway? Social media isn’t just a platform for advertising; it’s a vital space for being social and engaging with your audience. It’s about creating a community around your music and sharing your journey, not just promoting gigs. Remember, in the ever-evolving world of music, “Always Be Performing” isn’t just about the stage; it’s about how you present and connect with your fans online too. The episode also touches on the emotional rollercoaster musicians often face, like the ‘No-Gig Depression,’ a real phenomenon where the lack of performances can impact your mental well-being. Then there’s the dilemma faced by Keith: clubs only wanting to book one version of your band, a classic case of supply versus demand in the music industry. It sparks an intriguing debate – is control the antithesis of art, or is it compromise? Finally, a thought-provoking question: Are you just a musician, or are you a true bandmate? This question challenges you to reflect on your role and contribution to your musical collective. Press play and enjoy, folks! 00:00:00 Gig Gab 407 – Wednesday, December 13th, 2023 00:01:25 Thank you for being awesome! 00:05:00 How about some Dave-solo episodes? 00:07:42 Don’t Forget to Be Social on Social Media Social Media is not Advertising 00:14:55 No-Gig Depression 00:18:21 Keith-When Clubs Only Want to Book One Version of Your Band Supply vs. Demand Control is the antithesis of art? No… compromise is! Geddy Lee’s “My Effin’ Life” 00:37:58 Are you a musician or a bandmate? 00:43:19 GG 407 Outtro Contact Us! feedback@giggabpodcast.com Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List

In this week’s episode of Gig Gab with Paul Kent and Dave Hamilton, the duo dives into the evolving landscape of the music scene, particularly focusing on how musicians are adapting to today’s world. They touch on the unexpected cancellations of Christmas gigs, stirring a conversation about the resilience and adaptability required in the ever-changing world of music. The conversation then shifts to an intriguing discussion about the future of cover bands and tribute bands. They ponder over what bands like The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, and Lynyrd Skynyrd will mean to cover bands in ten years. The segment on tribute bands, featuring groups like Lotus Land, Foreigners Journey, and Dark Desert Eagles, highlights the enduring appeal of these iconic acts. They conclude with insights on personal growth through playing different instruments, discuss some exciting changes ahead for Gig Gab itself, emphasizing the show’s mantra: Always Be Performing. 00:00:00 Gig Gab 406 – Tuesday, December 5th, 2023 00:00:39 Adapting to the quiet 00:01:56 Christmas (gig) is CANCELED 00:03:51 What will cover bands be in ten years? The Beatles The Rolling Stones Lynyrd Skynyrd 00:16:26 What about Tribute Bands Beatlemania Foreigners Journey Dark Desert Eagles Eaglemania Lotus Land Being Petty 00:27:30 Changes are afoot! 00:37:32 Inspiration from Playing a Different Kit 00:39:00 GG 406 Outtro Contact Us! feedback@giggabpodcast.com Sign Up for the Gig Gab Mailing List