Welcome to The Blackened Soundboard

I am The Sonic Alchemist.

The hardest instrument you will encounter as a producer or a mixer.

I’ve been immersed in extreme metal for over 20 years, primarily as a guitarist with a focus on death metal, black metal, and thrash. Over time, I’ve expanded beyond just playing, developing a passion for the production and mixing process. One of the main challenges I’ve encountered in producing extreme metal is creating that unbelievably thick wall of sound from drums, bass, and guitars while still retaining the clarity that lets each element be heard. The secondary challenges arise when you need something to cut through that wall—like vocals or guitar solos. These are the kinds of issues I’ll address through tutorials and quick tips, offering practical advice to help you navigate the intricacies of extreme metal production.

My journey as an artist has led to a variety of releases, both through labels and as an independent musician. In every project, I’ve been deeply involved, handling everything from writing and arranging the music to overseeing production and mixing. Through these experiences, I’ve learned how to balance the raw power of extreme metal with the precision needed to make sure every element stands out.

Although I’ve produced acoustic drums for 10 years, I’ve taken up the drums myself more recently, adding two years of hands-on playing to my production experience. This dual perspective helps me understand how to blend all the elements together for a cohesive mix. Every now and then, I’ll dive into drum gear-related posts, discussing topics like pedal triggers, drumheads, cymbals, and more. These elements can have a significant impact on your recordings as well.

The Blackened Soundboard is where I share my insights from working in the home studio, offering straightforward advice on everything from creating thick, balanced mixes to achieving tones that cut through. I’ll be providing tutorials on specific challenges like these, as well as shorter tips for quick improvements. Occasionally, I’ll dive into more gear-oriented posts to help you make the most of your equipment.