Technical Ecstasy: phenomenological perspectives of Metal Music Producers

Event details

For this week's Research Seminar, please join Niall Thomas (University of Winchester) to discuss their research on 'Masters of Reality: the (de)construction of reality in the production of Metal Music.

This paper explores the lived experiences of renowned record producers to construct a phenomenological understanding of the development of recorded Metal music. It challenges existing production methodologies, proposing that technological democracy has changed the experience of making Metal records, affording creative flexibility and control that would historically have been out of reach; technologically and financially. Multitrack technologies and fragmented approaches are also explored as driving forces behind homogenised production practices. The result of these practices is framed by the experiences of producers that have shaped the recording careers of artists such as Black Sabbath and Judas Priest. This paper aims to link the direct experiences of record-making to musical, socio-cultural, and technological expectations and pressures.

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Meeting ID: 967 9721 8269

Passcode: 878342

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About the speaker

Dr Niall Thomas

Dr Niall Thomas is currently the programme leader and a senior lecturer in music production at the University of Winchester (United Kingdom). His research explores the phenomenology of record production, specifically in metal music, as well as broader and developing interests in the use of music technology for inclusive practice in higher education. He is also a touring musician, as member of Doom Metal band ‘Dead Witches’ featuring ex members of Electric Wizard, and is a practicing record producer, working with Alternative Pop and Rock artists.

Niall will take up a new post as Lecturer in Music at the University of Hull from August 2024.

E-mail: niall.thomas@winchester.ac.uk