Progressive Sound Audio

Wow, wow, wow!

Who likes a story? I love a story! And I listen to stories every single day.

Songs are stories, and a unique way for an Artist to share their story with the world.

And guess what? Today welcomes another story as told by the wonderful chaps from That Sfumato Effect

'I Don't Know Who You Are' has been released today and is available on all major streaming platforms.

I had the great privilege of Mastering this song and all is can say is Wow! A totally stripped back, raw and personal story that is well worth sharing with the world.

I'll leave links for Spotify and Apple Music below and please take a listen. This is an absolute gem of a story.

https://ampl.ink/A2EPZ?fbclid=IwY2xjawEsFQtleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHX2XRABKgMpPKsAyE5tUcn5TSatKm1bwmrx5vSJS5rMkXXchtOcy-G9ZDQ_aem_odrVdw2i1AtlxT0u6pjYTQ

That Sfumato Effect - I Don't Know Who You Are A Father/Son Relationship Song

It's a Friday and what does that mean?

Another new music release for you to listen to.

Today the wonderful gents from That Sfumato Effect have re-mixed and re-released the track 'Fire' and it's absolutely amazing.

This track was mastered by myself and features the song writing prowess of Stuart Glanville, the amazing bass playing of Jon Bicknell and the wonderful composition, production and mixing of the one and only Tony Ross.

If you're looking for an upbeat track to start off your weekend, then take a listen using the following link.

And you never know, there may be more in store from That Sfumato Effect coming very soon!

https://ampl.ink/23mpb?fbclid=IwY2xjawEjEXNleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHaFb6JwlngUGs_Bmma9pj_TipZWX-6ACFpUqJfR8PiRlLOmSVHqgJCKPKQ_aem_u0uJIQ_ceYytyD4UNa9C_A

That Sfumato Effect - Fire (That Keeps on Burning) This is a song about struggle, hope and survival.

It's a beautiful Friday morning here in the UK, and as the young whipper snappers might say, it's 'Fire'.

Speaking of Fire, the latest That Sfumato Effect single has been released today which was Mastered by yours truly. I absolutely love Mastering for these guys and want to give a big shout out to Tony Ross Jon Bicknell Stuart Glanville for releasing another great song.

Fire (That Keeps on Burning) is available on all major Streaming Platforms which can be accessed via the link below.

That Sfumato Effect are currently working on another song to be released very soon and can't wait to hear it. Stay posted for more details.

Smudge

Fire (That Keeps on Burning) by That Sfumato Effect Listen to "Fire (That Keeps on Burning)" by That Sfumato Effect on any music platform - Free smart music links by Songwhip

So with so many options available for music streaming right now, you might be asking yourself the question ‘which service is right for me?’

Well the Legend that is Ian Stewart has compiled a really handy and comprehensive tool that can help you make the decision.

https://flotownmastering.com/blog/best-music-streaming-service/?fbclid=IwAR3Sh0K7jdL4PiZYzoBBmtR6ypWuzNNJlYPlgSKWkOPd4ceDIvUAfLUPkww_aem_ARtmtBMEZxCtRPQv6WnwGxcpmLK2hPrXZr_LLyx65aF0f_eEMZziGd2IzQBrKyDuKbE

This tool really allows you to determine what priorities you want from a Streaming Service, and will provide you with a scoring based system to help guide your decision.

Take a look at the blog post above and really good job Ian, this is a great tool.

What's the best music streaming service for you in 2024? - Blog - Flotown Mastering If you're wondering what music streaming service best meets your needs and preferences, you're not alone. In this blog I'll give you the tools to pick the one that's best for you, plus share my own choice and reasoning.

One of the things I'm proud of when it comes to Mastering is when a company show's faith in you as an Engineer, and your ability to showcase their product.

I'm very specific about showcasing only products that I can really get behind which is why I was over the moon to try the OLLO - audio tools S5X Headphones, and review them in the below video.

These are truly amazing Headphones that I would recommend to anyone.

I am even more humbled to be an Endorsee for OLLO Audio and help support them with their related software development, which really takes these Headphones to that next level.

I hope you enjoy this video and if you are interested in getting a pair of OLLO Audio Headphones then head to https://olloaudio.com/

And if you end up buying a pair then add a note on the order to say that I sent you and you will also receive some different goodies from OLLO Audio.

Here's the link to the review video:

https://youtu.be/Rbd7ocSizbM?si=04520xrWkbZLH63v

ATMOS ON A BUDGET??? - OLLO AUDIO S5X Headphone Review - Open Back Headphone for Spatial Audio! Hi folksIn this video I take a look at the newly released OLLO Audio S5X Premium Open Back Headphones.These Headphones are designed and optimised for Spatial...

Let's start the week off on a positive with another Music Monday.

In support of Independent Artists and Bands around the world let's share your music below.

Drop a link below with your Artist/Band name and the Genre of your music and let's share the work of Independent Artists around the world.

Or have you heard the latest release from an Independent Artist you Love? Then why not share their music below?

It's tougher than ever to get music heard so hopefully this will help spread the word and make it all a bit easier.

Feel free to share, like and comment as the more people who see this post then the more chance there is the music being shared.

Smudge

And it's time for another Music Monday.

In support of Independent Artists and Bands around the world share your music below.

Drop a link below with your Artist/Band name and the Genre of your music and let's share the work of Independent Artists around the world.

And it's another Music Monday which means I want to hear your music.

In support of Independent Artists and Bands around the world share your music below.

Drop a link below with your Artist/Band name and the Genre of your music and let's share the work of Independent Artists around the world.

It doesn't matter what Genre or Style as it's all about sharing and lifting each other up so I hope to see your music linked below.

What’s your Biggest Challenge with Music Production???

Making Music can be so rewarding, but there are times when creating music can make us want to SCREAM!!!!

Whether it’s getting the take just right, getting the sounds we are looking for or even struggling with some of the many technologies and softwares that we lovingly or begrudgingly use.

What’s your biggest challenge when it comes to making music?

As an Independent Artist you may be finding it tough to get your music heard! It can be soul destroying spending time and money creating your music only to find that you're not getting any listens on your chosen platforms.

So from now on every week I will be promoting Music Mondays where you can link to your music in the comments section for others to listen to.

Just note your Band/Artist name, the Genre of your music and a link where people can listen and let's help share the music of Independent Artists.

One of the common criticisms I hear about modern music production is the tendency for songs to sound 'generic' or 'samey'!

And this has got me thinking about Artists who are not afraid to 'Stand Out From The Crowd' and create something new and unique!

There have been so many Pioneers over the years with music moving through many popular styles but there have always been those who 'Stand Out From The Crowd' and push the barriers.

As a Mastering Engineer I am always looking for the spark in a song that really shapes the story that the Artist is trying to say, and really emphasise that so the audience is captured in the moment.

So what makes your music 'Stand Out From The Crowd' and what do you do to make your music unique?

On Tuesday this week it was World Mental Health Day and it was great to see so much awareness about Mental Health.

But I can't stop thinking "who took time out to stop and check up on themselves"!

I'll admit it's been a tough week for me mentally, I'm very open about my mental health challenges so I frequently have to stop, reflect, and adjust. Reflection is super powerful to figure out what's working and what isn't and gives you time to just ask yourself "Are you okay"?

So have you taken some time out this week to stop, reflect, and ask yourself "Am I okay?"

It's 'okay to not be okay' but take some time out to stop and reflect. After all the 'Black Dog' is often lurking and show's up when you least expect it.

In the Studio today working on some Mastering Projects and some new YouTube content.

What are you working on this weekend? Have you planned some time out for your music?

Hi folks, Episode 4 of our Coffee Beans & Music Scenes News show is out now on YouTube.

You can access the video using the link below and in this episode we cover:

GOYO Voice Separator
Fircomp2 Plugin by Jon V Audio
Reverbnation
Audio Assault Amp Locker
Cakewalk Next & Sonar
OLLO Audio USC NX Headphone Calibration

In addition to the above we discuss the latest Spotlight Topic which is 'Can you use Headphones exclusively in Music Production'!

I hope you enjoy the video and let us know if there's a topic or product that you'd like us to cover.

Music Production News Episode 4 - Cakewalk Sonar, OLLO Audio USC NX, Reverbnation and more..... Welcome to episode 4 of our news series called Coffee Beans & Music Scenes, the got to News Show for all things Music Production.This is a bi-weekly show and...

Hi folks

I had an absolute blast working on this EP which was released yesterday. Drums & Wires UK are a super band and I had great fun working with them, and we even tried something new on these Masters.

Check out the EP using the Bandcamp link below or via your favourite streaming platform. I'll include an Apple Music link below:

https://music.apple.com/gb/album/ins-outs-and-roundabouts-ep/1699151306

They're classed as a 'Mod-Revival' band but they have plenty of influences as can be heard in this EP which shows off all of their talents.

It's well worth a listen.

Plenty More Fish, by Drums And Wires UK from the album Ins Outs And Roundabouts EP *NEW RELEASE*

Hi folks

Our good friend Keith Chadwick is hosting his weekly show on YouTube tomorrow in celebration and sharing the music of independent artists.

It’s well worth a listen.

Radio Tuck Frumpet America's EP18 - Pink Moon Your latest Radio Station for all things unprofessional. Get your music in and let's have fun!!Submit Your Original Song here https://neartail.com/ca/radiotu...

In our recent 'Coffee Beans & Music Scenes' episode we discussed the topic 'Is there a best DAW for everyone?' https://youtu.be/BJRb1HpJYfE

One of the key takeaways that we discuss is finding a DAW that inspires you and allows you to get from A to B the quickest.

So what's your favourite DAW that inspires you to create great Music and what makes it inspire you?

Hi folks, Episode 3 of our Coffee Beans & Music Scenes News show is out now on YouTube.

You can access the video using the link below and we cover the SSL X EQ2 sale, Black Rooster Audio Sale, GPU Audio, Youlean Loudness Meter Beta update, TC Electronic Vintage Ampworx Series and the Fiedler Audio Dolby Atmos Composer.

I also got to set up Tony with a glorious spotlight topic where his reaction broke his Internet!

I hope you enjoy the video and let us know if there's a topic or product that you'd like us to cover.

Music Production News Episode 3 - SSL X EQ 2, GPU Audio, Black Rooster Plugin Sale and More..... Welcome to episode 3 of our news series called Coffee Beans & Music Scenes, the got to News Show for all things Music Production.This is a bi-weekly show and...

A little bit of a deep topic here so brace yourselves, but there is something I unfortunately have no option but to tackle head on.

As a Proud Business Owner and Educator in the field of Audio I embrace the uniqueness in everyone, all individuals from all walks of life, as I believe in individuality and allowing everyone to have the potential to blossom and reach their full potential in life.

As such I have a real strong belief in developing a community that is accessible to all regardless of Gender, Race, Ethnicity, Sexual Orientation, Disability, Age, Religious Beliefs etc etc, the list goes on but needless to say Discrimination in any form I do not and will not tolerate.

As part of my duty I proudly support others through my role as a Content Creator through YouTube, but also endeavour to support fellow creators, as I believe that we all have a gift and a duty to help our fellow beings grow. I certainly do not see myself as an ‘Influencer’ but as a custodian of knowledge that I have a duty to share with others.

So given the above you can imagine my surprise and anger this morning when I found out that a fellow ‘Creator’ and friend, who shall remain unnamed for their own privacy, was the subject and victim of what can only be described as an act of discrimination.

I would not normally discuss such matters but the Discriminator, who shall remain unnamed, is also a follower and supporter of myself and my brands Mastering In The Box and Progressive Sound Audio. This makes this whole affair even more disappointing.

On behalf of Tony and myself at Progressive Sound Audio and Mastering In The Box, to be very clear, to those who wish to discriminate against others for any reason, you will not be part of our communities or friend lists moving forward and we will be taking the necessary action to remove anyone who wishes to discriminate against others from our communities. This includes those directly involved or those who are implicit or indirectly involved by showing support of those that discriminate, whether directly or indirectly.

Now we fully appreciate that we all have our own beliefs and opinions, and support freedom of speech and expression, however we are not going to accept when those freedoms are abused in a discriminatory way.

So with this in mind if you feel that you have the need to inflict on others your thoughts and opinions that are discriminatory in nature, then let’s save us all some time and remove yourself from our communities, whether that be Facebook, YouTube or any other platform.

As a personal note to the victim you have our full support and solidarity as you are a fine individual who we are proud to call a friend. You have done your best to support the wider audio community by sharing the works of others and do not deserve to be treated in this manner. We will continue to support you in any way moving forward and please don’t be silenced by the disgusting views of the minority, and most of all KEEP STRONG!

I also have a message for any brand or company that runs a community in any shape or form. This discriminatory abuse should not be tolerated in any community and I would urge you all to review the actions of those who are involved in your communities to w**d out the ‘bad apples’. By not taking action you will be deemed to be turning a ‘blind eye’ to this unacceptable behaviour that we must as a society eradicate for the benefit of all. If you believe in having a community that is accessible to all, then your actions need to support that belief.

Lastly, to our community followers rest assured that we will always endeavour to make it a safe place for all where we can continue to grow together.

All the best,

Smudge and Tony
Progressive Sound Audio/Mastering In The Box

Yesterday we released Episode 2 of our Music News Show 'Coffee Beans & Music Scenes' where we discuss all things Music, Production and Industry News.

In this episode we discuss the release of the Arturia Keylab Essential Mk3, Samplitude Pro X8, Arturia Augmented Brass, Qobuz, Waves key Detector as well as the IK Multimedia Group Buy. In addition and for our Spotlight Topic we also go over the subject 'What Computer do I need for Music Production'.

I hope you enjoy the show and if you have any ideas for future discussion then please let us know.

Music Production News Episode 2 - Arturia Keylab Mk 3, Samplitude Pro X8, IK Group Buy and More..... Welcome to episode 2 of our brand new series called Coffee Beans & Music Scenes, the got to News Show for all things Music Production.This is a bi-weekly sho...

At Progressive Sound Audio we are big believers in supporting boutique up and coming companies who produce great products for the Audio Community.

And to that point we are over the moon with the OLLO Audio S5X Open Back Headphones.

We have a full review coming soon but if you're in the market for a superb sounding Open Back Headphone then look no further than these.
https://olloaudio.com/

One of the many beauties of music is that it has a Global Footprint. Everyone loves music in some way, shape or form.

With this in mind one of the best ways to evaluate your creation is to get someone else to listen to your song idea and provide constructive feedback to help you on your journey.

So who do you get to listen to your songs once they've been written?

At Progressive Sound Audio we offer a range of services, including remote production, to help Artists hone their skills and take their songs to the next level.

Creating music doesn't have to be a lonely art and we are here to support anyone who needs help completing a musical project.

So if you feel stuck and are unsure where to take your song next then drop us a message and we'll be glad help you along the way.

One of the greatest struggles in Music Production and Song Creation is trying to wear lots of different hats. The Songwriter Hat, The Producer Hat, The Engineer Hat, The Promoter Hat......

There are so many different Hats to wear and sometimes it can become overwhelming.

At Progressive Sound Audio we believe in learning and excelling in the Technical so our clients don't have to.

So what are your greatest struggles when it comes to creating a song???

We are delighted to announce the start of our YouTube channel with our first video being a Music Industry News show called 'Coffee Beans and Music Scenes'.

This bi-weekly News Show is a great opportunity for you to sit down with a cup of Coffee (or bevvie of your desire) and catch up on the latest and greatest Music, Production & Industry News.

For our first show we discuss:

SSL Native Bus Compressor 2 Sale,
Native Instruments re-branding (including Izotope, Brainworx and Plugin Alliance),
OLLO Audio S5X Headphones,
Waves Gems Collection Plugins,
SSL UF1 DAW Controller
Soundation Online DAW

In addition we also have a Spotlight topic in which we take a deep dive, with this weeks topic being 'Is AI Mastering, Mastering???'.

I hope you enjoy the show, and if you do, please subscribe to our YouTube channel to be notified of all future episodes and videos.

www.youtube.com

Another release today for a track I Mastered for That Sfumato Effect. These guys are making some great music.

It would be great if you could check the track out via the links below.

That Sfumato Effect | Twitter, Instagram, Facebook | Linktree View thatsfumatoeffect’s Linktree. Listen to their music on YouTube, Apple Music here.

This past week I had the great pleasure of being interviewed for the TSE Podcast.
It was great to catch up with Tony and discuss lots of things music and Mastering related.
A big thanks to That Sfumato Effect for having me on their Podcast.

Interview With Darren "Smudge" Smith - Mastering In The Box - The TSE Podcast In this episode of the TSE Podcast, we interview Darren "Smudge" Smith, owner of the YouTube channel "Mastering In The Box" and also manages his own mixing and mastering business "Progressive Sound Audio". Smudge talks about his love of music, his...

Hi folks

It is with great to pleasure that I can announce that my Brand New Mastering course has been released.

The course 'Audio Mastering 101: A Beginners Guide to Modern Music Mastering' is available via the Skillshare platform using the link at the bottom of this post.

In this course I cover the core components of Modern Mastering including:

What Mastering is?
Common Mastering Terms
Loudness Normalization - The Basics
How to setup a simple Mastering session
Quality Control and Pre Master Note taking
Limiting 101
Compression
Equalization
Final Export & Rendering

This is a perfect course for those new to Mastering who want to get a 'Release Ready' Master.

It's been an absolute privilege making this course and I hope you find it as enjoyable as it was to make.

For those who aren't aware of what Skillshare is, Skillshare is a premium platform full of educational content related to the creative industries and is full of amazing educational content.

Skillshare is a paid platform but by using my referral link you can gain access to Skillshare with a 1 Month free trial. If you'd like to get a free trial then please use the following link:

https://www.skillshare.com/en/r/profile/Darren-Smith/746722260?gr_tch_ref=on&gr_trp=on

Making this course has been a labour of love that has taken numerous hours to put together so I hope you will find it beneficial.

Lastly I want to say a big thank you to the chaps from That Sfumato Effect for kindly letting me use the song 'Born To Be Free' for the example used in this class.

'Born To Be Free' is from their latest album 'Where Are The Angels' and is available to listen to on all major streaming platforms.

If you want to know more about this course then feel free to drop me a message but I really feel this will be a great class for many.

All the best and and I hope you keep safe and well.

Smudge

https://click.skillshare.com/track?uid=7323e5a3-f10d-45ea-ba1b-90f23c75b89f&txnid=4425bc5e-b4c8-4bf7-a509-4584fc89d862&bsft_aaid=d5edc627-0f6f-46e0-b492-6ae0d9cbe64a&eid=7e894b2e-5fd5-63e1-5337-82e48e23db05&mid=1e3ff483-8ba2-4dfe-b508-eb057c92a2c7&bsft_ek=2023-03-08T06%3A30%3A21Z&bsft_mime_type=html&bsft_tv=43&bsft_lx=5&a=click&redir=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.skillshare.com%2Fen%2Fclasses%2FAudio-Mastering-101-A-Beginners-Guide-to-Modern-Music-Mastering%2F576020308%3FteacherRef%3D746722260%26via%3Dteacher-referral%26utm_campaign%3Dteacher-referral-576020308%26utm_source%3DSkillshare%26utm_medium%3Dclass-teacher-referral-email%26utm_content%3Dnotification-celebrate-teacher-class-published

Audio Mastering 101: A Beginners Guide to Modern Music Mastering | Darren Smith | Skillshare In this class I will teach you the basic concepts of Modern Audio Mastering and show you how you can create a great sounding ‘Release Ready’ Master of your mixe...