New website design

New website design and logo for the band. The old design got a bit tired looking, so its time for something new. Chris recently moved back to the east coast, but blogs on a regular basis about different rock bands at http://asthewormturns.wordpress.com/. I’m looking at some of the back catalog for Affinity Zero and getting them mixed with my new recording setup.

Chris’s New Blog – As the worm turns

Chris has a blog about music at: http://asthewormturns.wordpress.com/

Reviewing the new album mix

Chris stopped by this past weekend to review the latest mix of the new CD. We tweaked some of the synth. instruments to match the songs better. Chris commented that it gives some of the songs a “Flock of Seagulls” feel. LOL! Our second CD release is a big progression over the first release. Multiple layers of instruments, powerful progressions, and a lot more dynamics.

I just need to redo the guitar tracks on one of the songs and it should be complete. Once the CD is complete, I’ll be working on mixing our cover songs — including a Lady Gaga song and the Mr. Grinch song.

New Affinity Zero album coming soon

We’ve been making a lot of progress in finishing up the new Affinity Zero album. Its been a work in progress for the past two years so we’re looking forward to finally releasing the CD. I’ve been re-recording all the guitars on the songs with a new amp for the past few months. I initially tried using “software-emulation” amps but they just didn’t quite have the power of real guitar amps.

I’m hoping to wrap up the final mixes this weekend and send them out to iTunes and Amazon for distribution soon. Stay tuned. — Al

Best Windows studio recording setup for $99

Looking for an inexpensive studio setup for your Windows computer?

The Samson C01U USB microphone with Cakewalk Sonar LE bundle is currently $99 at Amazon. It includes the C01U Microphone, Cakewalk Sonar LE Software, Desktop Mic Stand, Mic Clip, and a 10 foot USB Cable. This is a really good value considering the recording software alone can cost a minimum of $48 (Windows). In this price range, there are only a few options for software such as Sony Acid Music Studio or the Pro Tools Recording Studio Make Music Now. Users with Apple computers can use Garage band for a recording setup, which is included with their computer.

Features of the $99 Samson C01U bundle with Cakewalk Sonar LE:

• Sonar LE software. It handles up to 64 audio tracks and records in 24 bit. For effects expandability, one can download free VST plugins to add effects to their tracks. The best site for free VST plugins is KVR Audio.
• Studio quality microphone.  Its a condenser mic, which is great for recording acoustic guitar and vocals with a lot of clarity
• USB microphone for easy installation
• Microphone stand is included
• 10 ft cable

For more information, visit the product page of the Samson C01U USB Studio Condenser Microphone with Cakewalk Sonar LE on Amazon.

Mr. Grinch Cover Song

We’ll be posting this cover of Mr. Grinch on iTunes next month… in time for Christmas!

Recording Advice: Waves SSL Plugins

One of the best plugins out there is the Waves SSL Plugins. It recreates the Solid State Logic equipment to the T with a great sounding mixing board, compressor, and equalizer. Lots of well known bands have been recorded with this plugin including Muse.

The  SSL E-Channel is probably the most useful out of the group since it handles the EQ, compression, and high/low pass filters in one unit. The other plugins in the bundle are great for single channels. SSL-G Master Buss Compressor would help maximize the levels on a kick drum, bass guitar, or snare drum. SSL G-Equalizer is good for fine tweaking vocals or guitars. It looks like they recently added a fourth plugin to the bundle called the SSL G-Channel, which is the mix of both the SSL G-Equalizer and SSL G-Compressor.

These plugins would be great if you like the analog sound to your recordings in a ProTools environment.

Right now, there is a sale on the Waves SSL plugin for 40% off until October 31, 2010! This brings the bundle price down to $465.00, which is the lowest ever.

Free Affinity Zero show on 4/21/2010 (Santa Ana, CA)

First Affinity Zero show of 2010! No cover, 21+ over.
With: Inquire Within & Noa & Shai

4/21/2010 9:00 PM
Malone’s in Santa Ana – Casa De Rock!
604 East Dyer Road, Santa Ana, California 92705
Cost: FREE
Google Map Directions
Venue Reviews: http://www.meetup.com/ocbluesplayers/venue/663231/?eventId=13092794

As for the our exact set time, we’ll post it on our Twitter at:
http://www.twitter.com/affinityzero sometime around 8:30 PM. Thanks!