cover image Studio Grace: The Making of a Record

Studio Grace: The Making of a Record

Eric Siblin. House of Anansi (PGW, U.S. dist.; UTP, Canadian dist.), $24.95 (296p) ISBN 978-1-77089-934-6

Siblin, a journalist and author (The Cello Suites), takes readers with him on an entertaining journey to fulfill his lifelong dream of recording an album of his original songs and music. Even though he had been playing guitar since he was 11, wrote his first song at 13, and decades later finally felt that he had a dozen songs fully composed, the album still doesn’t come easily, and Siblin recruits help from many quarters. Readers get to know Jo Simonetti, a talented singer, and Morey Richman, a digital music producer, who both play key roles. During his 12-month endeavor, Siblin explores all facets of the work: choosing right instruments, changing verses, finding perfect vocals, collaborating with other musicians and professionals, and recording in three very different places: a basement and garage, an analog studio, and an attic studio where Richman uses digital technology and distributes recordings via YouTube. This vivid account of Siblin’s adventure in an era when “nobody buys records” will appeal to readers who love pop music, and especially to musicians and songwriters who harbor their own recording dreams. Readers can listen to and download the rich fruits of Siblin’s labor of love on his website. (Feb.)