Studios:
via https://nightsound.com/recording/
Located near Cat’s Cradle at 116 C West Main Street in Carrboro N.C., Nightsound includes four recording studios: Control Room, Main Room, Blue Room and the “Rehearsal Barn.” The Control Room features multiple recording software, including a refurbished 1970s Quantum Audio Lab console. The Main Room is designed to house one to eight people, making it the best space for larger bands. The space has been designed with four seating areas - with each space having a different feeling than the other. The Blue Room is a smaller, more intimate space designed with duos in mind. The space includes a variety of instruments, including vintage and modern keyboards, amplifiers, and one of the studio’s analog tape machines. The Nightsound “Rehearsal Barn” is the studio’s newest addition. Designed for four piece bands, the Barn includes a drum kit, PA, bass amp, guitar amplifier, and a combo bass amplifier.
Explicit information on equipment and instruments can be found on the studio page of their website.
History:
Nightsound Studios was founded in 2001 by Chris Wimberley, a young audio engineer who had previously trained under Thomas Mohbat of Chicago Trax and Bad Dog Productions. From the start, Nightsound branded itself as a “ low-overhead, accessible and affordable recording facility,” making itself an accessible option for independent labels and up-and-coming artists. Wimberley wanted to foster an environment where money was not an inhibitor, and artists could thrive without having to worry about the depth of their pockets: so he only charged clients for the time when progress was made toward their goal.
Nightsound’s support of the local music community continued when it began hosting workshops for artists in 2008, helping them grow to become tourable performers. According to the business’ website, its client base and impact is growing beyond North Carolina nearly two decades into its lifetime. Famous former clients include The Love Language, The Mountain Goats, Mipso and Chase Rice. The venue has also hosted local groups, including multiple UNC-CH based acapella groups.
Check out music by Nightsound’s affiliate artists below:
COVID Safety:
Nightsound Studios has clients of all ages and health requirements, so it is taking measures to insure the safety of everyone. They ask that anyone exhibiting symptoms to not come in and to take advantage of their rescheduling opportunities. Sessions are scheduled hours apart to allow for extra cleaning and air filtration.
Other procedures are also in place to keep clients safe while recording. All staff must use hand sanitizer throughout each session, remove outdoor shoes upon entering the studio, clean exposed surfaces in any studio room where people have been after each session, and wear a mask at all times.
Nightsound Studios asks for all clients and guests to follow certain protocols too. They ask that a mask be worn at all times and to periodically use hand sanitizer when you enter. Clients must take shoes off at the door and will be given shoe coverings upon request. Engineers must be told ahead of time what each session will consist of and what instruments the client plans to bring.
Contact:
Wimberly said that the best way to pitch ideas and book time at Nightsound Studios is to make an appointment and sit down face to face with him. Night Sound also offers a free consultation and tour of the studio. Information on the studio’s policy and contact information can be found on their personal website.
