The Sound Issue 2016 Studio Focus: Tender Trap Studios

Answered by: AJ Bradford, studio owner

Studio address: 37 Cunningham St, Northcote

How long has the studio been running? About ten years.

What makes your studio different? It's definitely the space. We've got some nice gear but it's always about the feel of the space the gear is in. And the history of the music made here is in that feel too.

What's your favourite piece of equipment you have in the studio? The 1890s upright piano from New York. It's world-weary, has some dodgy notes, is beautiful and has featured on many albums. The studio feels right when the piano lid is open.

Do you find you specialise in specific genres? There's no one genre.

Who have been your favourite artist(s) to come? So many. A couple of weeks ago I had the pleasure of Mick Harvey coming in. The man has been involved in the making of so many brilliant albums. Was great to have him in.

What do believe has been the most well produced album of 2016 so far? Some great female producers making albums at the moment. Catherine J Marks and Anna Laverty always quality. Also The Drones' Taman Shud was sonically great — that low end and that sweet axe work.

What services does your studio offer? Recording and mixing. Any projects big or small. We are also a user friendly studio for freelance engineers and producers who need a space for dry hire.

Do you prefer analogue or digital? I don't think there's a better, just different. It's more a matter of choosing what's the best tool to help express an idea. Mix wise, analogue can be fun… until you need to recall that mix.

Who would be your dream artist to have record/rehearse in the studio? Around his 2000 Aus tour I saw Joe Strummer sitting outside Centrelink in Fitzroy. Would've been a great photo. He sneezed and I said 'bless you' — but I really should have invited him to the studio.