Recording for an Audition

[Quagmire02]

Hey people,

Funny question here. I'm working on a solo project and I've been looking for singers. None of my musicians are available, so I'm just going to audition a singer in my home-studio. I have an AT 3035 mic that I'll be using and a vocal-less track of Judas Priest's "Metal Gods" for the singer to sing to. Any tips on what to do to get the most accurate and analystic documentation of this guy's voice? What do I need to be sure to do for him and myself?

 

[ssscientist]

Any tips on what to do to get the most accurate and analystic documentation of this guy's voice?

Don't rely on getting the most accurate and analystic documentation --- just let him scream. If he screams on key, then get onto the next step with him, whatever that may be. If he doesn't, politely show him the door.

And don't forget to use a pop filter with that mic.

 

[TexRoadkill]

How do you use the terms analystic and accurate when you are using Judas Priest as source material?

It's fucking rock music. He will either rock or he won't.

 

[Quagmire02]

Ok, well he sang on key perfectly, but his voice was sort of soft/weak. Didn't seem to have that edgy roughness to it that it typical for that particular song/style. Kinda lacked power, but he really didn't hit a bad note and the sound of his voice was actually nice, just too soft.

 

[RickW]

So...in other words...he doesn't ROCK. He may sing good and have great pitch, but if the feel isn't there, he won't cut it. If you're looking for that "Priest" style of vocalist, then you need someone with power. They're out there...just be patient and keep looking. Don't settle if it's not exactly what you want. I'm assuming this is for a recording project...and the recording will only come out as good as the performance...period. No tricks are gonna make the singer sound more powerful if it's not in his voice in the first place. Not to say you couldn't use him on other material...just doesn't sound like you're particularly sold on him yourself. Just don't burn any bridges either. You may need his talents in the future. Never hurts to build up a network of people you like to work with.

 

[ocnor]

I don't think that it is fair to judge his singing on that one particular song. Metal Gods is one of the most lifeless and unemotional Judas Priest songs that I've heard. Bring the guy back and make him sing "The Ripper" or "Exciter" or anything else from Unleashed in the East. That would give you a better idea as to his ability.

 

[Quagmire02]

Bring the guy back and make him sing "The Ripper" or "Exciter" or anything else from Unleashed in the East. That would give you a better idea as to his ability.

That's asking a lot of any vocalist...