Bruce Reiter: Critically Acclaimed Live Sound Mixer (Five Finger Death Punch, Megadeath, Slayer)

Step behind the curtain of the live music scene with Jay Franze and the legendary sound mixer Bruce Reiter from Five Finger Death Punch. In a rare conversation, Bruce unveils his sonic journey, detailing his rise from modest beginnings to orchestrating the thunderous soundscapes for arena rock giants. He credits early mentors like Dave Natale for honing his craft, and offers an intimate look at the dynamics within the band, from Zoltan Bathory’s strategic vision to Ivan Moody’s heartfelt fan connections. It’s a foray into the often-unseen emotional labor of sound engineering, revealing how Bruce’s meticulous touch amplifies the raw exchange between artists and audiences.

When the stage lights blaze and the crowd roars, the unsung heroes at the sound console ensure every chord strikes true. This episode pulls back the festival curtain, highlighting the symphony of challenges and triumphs that sound engineers like Bruce Reitr face. From the seamless orchestration of the setup to the magic of virtual soundchecks, step into the collaborative world that transforms musical chaos into harmony. Learn how the subtlest variables, such as audience attire or the warmth they radiate, can sway the soundscape. Bruce’s narrative underscores the vital, yet often invisible, camaraderie among the touring crew, who together, bring the concert experience to life night after night.

Join us as Bruce Reiter shares a masterclass in live sound mixing, from the comfort of his home studio to the electric energy of stadium shows. Discover the meticulous preparation that defines a touring sound engineer’s life and the technological tools, like Smaart RTA, that ensure performances resonate with unfailing clarity. Bruce serves up an array of sound mixing techniques and tips for music connoisseurs and aspiring mixers alike, emphasizing the craft’s blend of art and science. His commitment to continuous learning and mentorship shines through, offering valuable insights into an industry where precision meets passion, and every live show is an opportunity to reach sonic perfection.

Show Information

• Host: Jay Franze
• Guest: Bruce Reiter
• Recorded: April 21, 2024

Links

• Jay Franze: https://JayFranze.com

Joe Keiser: Critically Acclaimed Live Sound Engineers (Nickelback, ZZ Top, Keith Urban)

Join Jay Franze on this electrifying episode of The Jay Franze Show, where he dives into live sound engineering with an industry titan: Joe Keiser. Based in the heart of Nashville, Joe brings decades of experience, stories, and invaluable insights.

Joe Keiser, currently Nickelback’s Front-of-House (FOH) engineer, boasts an illustrious career spanning over 26 years in both studio/broadcast and live sound. Having rubbed shoulders with ZZ Top, Keith Urban, and Sheryl Crow, Joe’s experiences on the road and in the studio offer a rare glimpse into the intricacies of crafting top-tier sound experiences.

Joining Joe is his long time mentor, Tony Cottrill, a multifaceted talent in live and studio  engineering, Tony brings a wealth of knowledge from his rich background as a musician, tour manager, and educator. With a teaching portfolio that includes prestigious institutions like Belmont University and The Blackbird Academy, Tony has honed the skills of aspiring audio engineers while simultaneously touring with a constellation of music legends.

In this episode, listeners will explore:

• Behind-the-scenes tales from the road with music icons and industry legends.
• The evolving landscape of live sound engineering and its intersection with technology.
• The art of balancing technical prowess with creative instincts in shaping unforgettable sonic experiences.

Tune in as Jay Franze delves deep into the art and science of sound engineering, unpacking the secrets and stories that have shaped the careers of these two remarkable guests. Whether you’re an audio enthusiast, an aspiring engineer, or simply curious about the magic behind exceptional sound, this episode is a must-listen!

So, don’t miss out! Join us for an exhilarating conversation that goes beyond the soundboard and into the pulse of the music industry.

Show Information

• Host: Jay Franze
• Guest: Joe Keiser and Tony Cottrill
• Recorded: November 20, 2023

Links

• Jay Franze: https://JayFranze.com
• Tony Cottrill: http://thetonycottrill.com/thetonycottrill.com
• The Dawg Houze: http://www.thedawghouze.com

Chris Franz: Critically Acclaimed Guitar Tech / Drummer (Steve Miller Band, Jason Bonham’s Led Zeppelin Evening, The Judds)

On this exhilarating episode of The Jay Franze Show, renowned host Jay Franze sits down with the extraordinary musician and industry expert Chris Franz. Join us as we dive into the world of rhythm and unravel the fascinating journey of a Nashville drummer and touring guitar tech.

Chris Franz, a seasoned musician and talented multitasker, brings a wealth of experience and a unique perspective. With his extensive career, he has played alongside some of the biggest names in the music industry.

During this captivating interview, Jay delves into the intricate artistry of being a drummer and the challenges and triumphs of the role. Chris shares captivating stories from the studio, shedding light on the creative process, the demands of the music industry, and the importance of adaptability.

But that’s not all – Chris Franz is a remarkable drummer and a skilled guitar tech. He spills the beans on what it takes to keep guitars perfect for The Steve Miller Band, divulging behind-the-scenes secrets and sharing hilarious anecdotes from life on the road.

Join us as we explore the world of music through the eyes of Chris Franz, unraveling the secrets of maintaining rhythm and harmony in both the studio and on tour. From his early beginnings to his current accomplishments, this conversation will inspire aspiring musicians and entertain music lovers of all genres.

Tune in to this riveting episode of The Jay Franze Show, where we uncover the mesmerizing world of a drummer and touring guitar tech with the one and only Chris Franz. Get ready to be inspired, captivated, and immersed in the pulsating rhythm of music.

Show Information

• Host: Jay Franze
• Guest: Chris Franz
• Recorded: July 17, 2023

Links

• Jay Franze: https://JayFranze.com