Earlier this year, Ihsahn released his latest EP, “Fascination Street Sessions.” The thirteen-minute EP included two original tracks and a cover of Kent’s “Dom Andra,” and featured the vocal talents of Jonas Renske (Katatonia) and Øystein Aadland (Avkrvst). Critics unanimously praised the rich sound, high-quality production, and continued excellence from one of metal’s most beloved artists.
As though a new EP wasn’t exciting enough, “Fascination Street Sessions” was the sonic result of an even greater endeavor: the URM Academy production course titled “How It’s Done.” The original track “The Observer” was written particularly for the course, with every element of the song crafted to optimize the educational experience. The course and EP that resulted were the product of almost two weeks of 16-hour days in the eponymous Fascination Street Studio.
“How It’s Done” is the brainchild of producer Jens Bogren. Bogren, known for his work with bands like Opeth, Dimmu Borgir, Soilwork, Amon Amarth, and many more, has long been considered the master of his craft. As for “How It’s Done,” the course offers more than 35 hours of in-depth video content on recording, mixing, mastering, and much more. It is already being heralded as the most comprehensive course of its kind. Buyers of the course will become students as Bogren walks through each step of his process, from preparing the equipment, through recording, to the final master. There has never been a greater wealth of information in one place, and never with such talented experts as the instructors.
Why Jens Bogren Matters: Jens is considered to be one of the greatest metal producers/mixers of all time. He specializes in hyper layered, ultra elite, typically European bands. He became known for Opeth’s “Ghost Reveries” which received critical acclaim around the globe. He’s also the owner of Bogren Digital which is a new, but really cool and innovative audio software company. His studio, Fascination Street Studios is as legendary in the metal community as Morrisound Recording was in the 1990’s.
What’s Cool About It: This course is it’s literally EVERY step of what Jens does, explained in full detail and in real time during the actual production of Ihsahn‘s music. This was not put together after the EP was completed. This song was written for this purpose and Ihsahn is very involved in the entire process. There’s never been a recording course that goes into this kind of detail with this level of artist.
Between Ihsahn and Bogren, metal’s finest have come together for an educational opportunity like no other. “How It’s Done” is available now and for a limited time (sales close July 12). The course is priced at $399 and can be purchased HERE.
Sonic Perspectives contributor Samantha Buckman spoke with Ihsahn about the creation of “How It’s Done.” The two discussed the special features the course offers, what it was like to work with Bogren on such a comprehensive project, and what awaits Ihsahn in the future. Listen or watch their conversation below and remember that for more interviews and other daily content, make sure to follow Sonic Perspectives on Facebook, Flipboard and Twitter and subscribe to our YouTube channel to be notified about new interviews and contents we publish on a daily basis.
