When I do cover projects in the studio, it's me on all instruments live, guitars, bass, drum kit, and keys (no vox
), at least for the first draft. I love listening back to them like albums at high volume once the mix is done (not sure if my neighbors do), and sometimes the rawest versions are best. Picking which gear to use before recording is one of the most fun parts of all.
Some favorites are '80s Ozzy, Maiden, Priest, Metallica, Loudness, MDeth, and early Dream Theater, and these also influence my original material. More recently diving into King Diamond, Mercyful Fate, and Metal Church. I'll often change things slightly, maybe an intro, extended middle excursion or outro like the bands would do live, and the solos are free targets if something flows. Solos are recorded dead last, and they are the icing on the cake. I often simply certain things, namely drums and keys for bands like DT, to keep it within my reach. But a strong song doesn't lose much even if the flashy stuff is simplified.
Most recently did Church of Saint Anne, a freakin' banger of a song.
Next are all new versions of Seventh Son and The Clairvoyant, perfect as winter begins....
I've already known these two songs for many years, but every time I record a new version, it's better than the one before, especially the drums, which aren't as easy as you might think. Also a great excuse to record my new G-Force.
