In this episode, we reflect on James's final tour with Yakul, exploring the emotions and challenges of stopping a long-term project and the process of moving on. We dive into whether long-term goal setting is always beneficial or if it can box you in, discussing the importance of staying flexible and being open to new opportunities. We also talk about the need to define your focus and how that can act as a barometer for future direction. Tune in for a deep dive into transitions, adaptability, and the lessons learned from closing one chapter and starting another.

Drop us an email with any thoughts or topics you'd like us to discuss. Give us a follow on our socials if you want to see more of our journeys.

thesoundmindpod@gmail.com

James: https://www.instagram.com/jamesberkeleymusic
Marcus: https://www.instagram.com/marcus_hedges_composer

In this episode, we're excited to welcome Beatmaker, producer, and multi-instrumentalist edbl to the podcast. Known for his prolific collaborations, edbl has collaborations with over 60 artists, helping to spotlight some of the most exciting up-and-coming talent in the UK. With over 70 million streams and support from platforms like Radio 1, 1Xtra, Radio 2, and Jazz FM—not to mention a prestigious Maida Vale session—edbl has solidified himself as a major force in the music scene. He’s also collaborated closely with artists like Odeal, Jelani Blackman, Samm Henshaw, Jay Prince, and Ady Suleiman.

In this conversation, we explore edbl’s journey from balancing side gigs to building a music career that now stands on its own. We also dive into how he translates his songs for live performances, and why going with the flow—rather than overplanning—has been an important asset to his success. Plus, we hear his thoughts on the state of the music industry, his hopes for the future, and the one plugin he couldn’t live without if stranded on a desert island.

Tune in for an inspiring chat with one of the UK's most dynamic producers!

Follow Ed:

https://www.instagram.com/edbledbl
https://open.spotify.com/artist/7ncd26zzbpqgZRroBKmReO?si=YbNwx5CmTg6inv7ltqBOSA

Drop us an email with any thoughts or topics you'd like us to discuss. Give us a follow on our socials if you want to see more of our journeys.

thesoundmindpod@gmail.com

James: https://www.instagram.com/jamesberkeleymusic
Marcus: https://www.instagram.com/marcus_hedges_composer

In this special episode we're thrilled to welcome our first guest, John Elleson-Hartley, a seasoned mixing and mastering engineer with over 25 years of experience in the industry. Based in Horsham, UK, John has worked with a diverse array of composers and has contributed to high-profile projects like Nainita Desai’s Deepest Breath soundtrack on Netflix, Miguel Doliviera’s Ibiza Narcos on Sky, and Ian Livingstone’s Formula 1 2023 video game soundtrack for Codemasters. With credits that include work for Universal, BBC, and ITV, John’s expertise is unparalleled.

In our conversation, we dive into what mastering truly entails and how the process has evolved with advancements in technology. John shares his thoughts on the subjective nature of 'the best' in audio, emphasizing the importance of intuition over rigid processing chains. We also explore the concept of loudness and how digital streaming platforms adjust LUFs through their algorithms.

John highlights the critical role of referencing mixes on various speaker systems and the importance of building a strong network for professional growth. We also discuss why it's crucial to continue promoting your music long after its release and how maintaining an attitude of gratitude can fuel long-term success in the industry.

https://www.musiklab.co.uk/
https://www.instagram.com/johnehartley/

Drop us an email with any thoughts or topics you'd like us to discuss. Give us a follow on our socials if you want to see more of our journeys.

thesoundmindpod@gmail.com

James: https://www.instagram.com/jamesberkeleymusic
Marcus: https://www.instagram.com/marcus_hedges_composer