Our recording studio in the middle of our street

Home Street Recording Company provides a cozy,  encouraging atmosphere to new artists

Jeff Patteson invites you into his basement for some incredibly focused and loud times. Nicholas Friesen

Capturing sound is an art, and one of Winnipeg’s best new artists in the field of sound recording is Jeff Patteson.

Nestled in the basement of an old house on Home Street, The Uniter spoke with Patteson to find out why his Home Street Recording Company, described simply as “a place to record,” is quickly becoming the go-to studio for innovative new artists such as Vela, Dust Adam Dust and The Manic Shakes.

The Uniter: Why do you record music?

Patteson: I love music, it’s my passion. In my view there are tons of talented musicians in bands and I find they don’t always have the resources to get their music to the people. I see myself as someone who can not only bring people into a comfortable environment where they can create music, but do it reasonably.

Who are your influences?

John McEntire, Ed Rose, Steve Albini, Cam Loeppky, Andy Walls and Len Milne.

Is there a stylistic through line between those artists that you carry into your own work?

Atmosphere. Lots of interesting texture in the sound – they all are highly detailed but within the music the detail isn’t sacrificed for the sake of atmosphere or blending of sounds.

What is the atmosphere like in the studio?

I try to project a relaxed atmosphere. Part of that’s me being chill, cool-headed and in control of the technical aspects. Part of that is teaching people little things along the way, empowering people to be in control of their own music.

Does the atmosphere of the larger community in which the songs are recorded also seep into the atmosphere of the recording?

The sound that ends up coming through is definitely through a Winnipeg filter. Winnipeg has its own distinct feel.

How much of “the sound” is yours and how much comes from the band?

It’s always what they are looking for. Most bands self produce their music and I put in some input, like a sonic signature, but for the most part we make decisions together as to what would sound cool, beyond the framework of the song. It seems like I’ve been lucky, I’m always on the same page as the band.

What are you looking for in potential bands to record?

I like working with bands that excite me because I’m going have to listen to these things thousands of times.

How do you find the bands that excite?

Since I’ve been doing more recordings this year as opposed to previous years, I haven’t had as many opportunities to check out as much new music as I have in the past. I’ve had to rely on my circle of friends to point me in the direction of exciting bands like Vela. Other than that, I love showing my studio. If anybody wants to come by, take a tour and talk music, I’m always open to people getting in touch.

If you are a starving artist who wants to see if Home Street is the place for you, or you’re a Winnipeg music fan hungry to hear your world reflected through your headphones, pick up a copy of Dust Adam Dust’s self-titled debut – hop on the Internet and go to www.aplacetorecord.ca. Or, keep your eyes peeled for upcoming releases from Vela and The Manic Shakes.

Published in Volume 66, Number 4 of The Uniter (September 22, 2011)

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