Recording a band is a different process from recording a soloist. There are more instruments, more personalities and more technical decisions. But when done right, the result is a recording with energy, cohesion and the unique sound of your band. Here I explain the entire process.
Preparation before the studio
1. Rehearse the songs until you master them
The studio is not a place to learn songs. Each member should know their part perfectly. Studio time is expensive — use it to capture your best version, not to rehearse.
2. Define the arrangements
How many guitars in each section? Are there backing vocals? Tempo changes? All this should be defined beforehand. Clear arrangements make efficient sessions.
3. Check your equipment
New strings on guitars and bass, drum heads in good condition, pedals working. Technical problems in the studio steal valuable time.
4. Make a demo
Record a home demo of the songs. This serves as a reference and helps identify problems in arrangements before arriving at the studio.
The typical recording order
Drums (or rhythmic base)
Drums are the foundation of the song. They're recorded first, usually with the rest of the band playing live to maintain energy, but only the drums are kept.
Bass
Bass is recorded over the finished drums. It's the bridge between drums and other instruments. Rhythmic precision here is crucial.
Rhythm guitars
The base guitars that hold the harmony. They're usually doubled (recorded twice) to give width to the sound.
Melodic guitars and solos
Leads, solos and melodic parts come after. This is where the guitarist's personality shines.
Keyboards and extras
Synthesizers, pianos, pads, effects. Everything that completes the production.
Lead vocals
The singer records over the almost-finished track. This allows them to feel the complete energy of the song.
Backing vocals and harmonies
Additional vocals are recorded at the end, complementing the lead vocal.
Tips by instrument
Drums
Tune the drums well. New heads make a huge difference. The drummer should play with a metronome if the song requires it.
Bass
New strings give brightness and definition. Make sure the tuning is perfect. The bass should "lock in" with the kick drum.
Guitars
New strings, well-calibrated guitar. If using an amp, tubes in good condition. Bring spare cables.
Vocals
The singer should arrive rested, hydrated and with warmed-up voice. The voice is the most delicate instrument.
Common mistakes bands make in the studio
- Arriving unrehearsed: The worst mistake. The studio is not a rehearsal room. Arrive ready to record.
- Everyone wants to give opinions at once: Designate a representative to talk to the producer. Too many voices create confusion.
- Obsessing over perfection: A take with energy and small errors can sound better than a "perfect" but lifeless one.
- Ignoring the producer: The producer has experience and a trained ear. Listen to their suggestions with an open mind.
- Not resting: 12-hour non-stop sessions produce bad results. Take breaks, eat well.
How long does it take to record an EP or album?
- Demo of 3-4 songs: 2-4 days of recording, depending on complexity.
- EP of 5-6 songs: 4-7 days of recording.
- Full album (10-12 songs): 10-15 days of recording.
These times are approximate and vary according to band preparation, arrangement complexity and the sound you're looking for.
Recording as a band is an intense and rewarding experience. It requires preparation, teamwork and trust in the process. When everything aligns, the result is a recording that captures the essence of who you are as a group — something no home studio can replicate.
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