Why you should or shouldn't book a recording studio

A lot of us dream with the magical studio experience. Forgetting about time and focusing on the art of music. Spending our days oozing sweat and soul just to play and record the perfect part. I've seen the dream happen. I see it come true with every band, musician and artists that comes to the studio. We work, play and laugh hard.
My wish is to see it all happen more often. For the sake of my business but mostly for the sake of art. The world needs more heart/thought/soul filled art. As opposed to just excessive empty content.

Why not make it all happen more often? Well, the most obvious factor is MONEY. Sometimes it just isn't an option to book a studio. The budget simply isn't there. But even when there is a decent budget, you still have to spend wisely.
Here are a few points and ideas to consider when deciding whether or not to book a studio and how to get the most out of any situation.

• Look for a good engineer rather than a flashy studio (if you can get both then please go for it, have fun!)

• If you don't want to, or just can't, book a studio. Consider booking a few of hours of consultation with an engineer/producer. Somebody that can give you cool and fun tips or guidelines that will keep you from making mistakes during your recording process. Divide your questions into two categories: Creative/artistic and Technical.

• Do you want to use the studio as a lockout space where to write lyrics and new songs? Then please know that even though it is a valid option, it generally requires more time and thus a bigger budget. Do you have the budget?

• Be sincere with yourself. Are you ready for the studio? Do you really know your songs? Have you practiced enough? Have you broken your songs apart and viewed them under a microscope? Do you know what the rest of your band is playing? Being in a studio is very different from being at your rehearsal space. If you are not ready then all of a sudden you might hear stuff that you never knew was there in the first place. Stuff like a crazy bass line crashing with your awesome guitar solo. Or a keyboard player trying to be way too fancy and playing 9ths, diminished this and augmented that. Be mindful of those unpleasant surprises.

• If you've already decided to spend the money on a studio/engineer then make sure it doesn't go to waste. Get rid of the DEMO mentality. If you want to have a fighting chance of really being heard then aim for the stars. Try and get a good polished EP or album. BE a professional.

• Make a schedule. Use your time wisely. Focus on the big picture at first, leave the small details for last. A good engineer producer will take care of most of the small details for you, before they even become an issue.

• Do you really want to pursue your dream? Are you willing to save up your money and spend it on quality services for your music? Prove it… to yourself. If you are really serious and committed then you will find engineers/producers willing to accept a good deal just to get a chance to work with somebody like you.

Feel free to add your opinion in the comments section below.