Brighton Electric is more than just a recording studio; it’s a vibrant hub for musicians. With its exceptional facilities, it caters to a variety of needs, including rehearsals, recordings, and community events. In this blog, we’ll delve into the unique features of this remarkable establishment, highlighting its history, spaces, and the sense of community it fosters.
A Brief History of Brighton Electric
Located in a beautifully restored Victorian building, Brighton Electric has a rich history. Originally built in the 1890s, it served as the headquarters for the local tramway company. The building showcases stunning old brickwork and retains many historical features, including its original mosaic floors.
Opened in 2000, the studio has evolved, it has became a haven for musicians, offering top-notch facilities and a welcoming atmosphere. The studio’s manager, Jimi, is passionate about preserving the building’s heritage while adapting it to modern needs.
Facilities and Spaces
Brighton Electric boasts two impressive control rooms equipped with high-end gear: a 1970’s NEVE 5316 and an API 1608. These control rooms are complemented by two spacious live rooms, creating an ideal environment for recording, mixing and pre production. Additionally, the studio features rehearsal rooms, a rental business for music gear, and a bar and coffee shop, fostering a real sense of community among the musicians, producers and engineers who frequent it.
Control Rooms
The control rooms at Brighton Electric are designed for optimal sound quality and functionality. Each room is equipped with state-of-the-art technology to ensure that every recording session meets professional standards.
Studio 1 Control Room
Studio 1 features a classic NEVE 5316 console, renowned for its warm sound and versatility. The control room is spacious, allowing for comfortable collaboration between engineers and musicians. The room’s layout is designed to minimise sound interference, with booths and great isolation from the rest of the studio ensuring high-quality recordings.
Studio 2 Control Room
In contrast, Studio 2 features an API 1608 console, which is known for its punchy classic sound and with modern reliability. Tracking, mixing and mastering and it is often used for teaching purposes, making it an excellent space for aspiring engineers to learn the ropes of music production.
The studios come fully equipped with AEA, Neumann, AKG, Shure, Beyer, Coles, Royer, Josephson, Sennheiser, Austrian Audio, Flea and Blue microphones. Additional Neve, API and Chandler Mic Pres, UREI, Distressor, DBX and Alan Smart compression. ATC and Yamaha Monitors, AVID HDX, Audient, Apogee and Focusrite interfaces.
Rehearsal Spaces
Brighton Electric offers multiple rehearsal rooms, 15 total with more being created, that cater to bands of all sizes. These spaces are designed to be flexible, allowing for everything from intimate jam sessions to larger full tour production rehearsals. The studio’s extremely affordable rates make it an attractive option for local musicians.
The Community Aspect
One of the standout features of Brighton Electric is its strong sense of community. The studio regularly hosts events and workshops, bringing musicians together to share their experiences and learn from one another. The bar and coffee shop serve as social hubs, where artists can relax and connect.
Affordable Access to Quality Gear
Brighton Electric prides itself on offering high-quality gear at competitive prices. Musicians can rent everything from instruments to recording equipment, ensuring they have access to the tools they need without breaking the bank.
Rental Gear
The rental business at Brighton Electric includes a wide range of world class equipment:
- Guitars and basses
- Amplifiers
- Microphones
- Mixing consoles
- Studio monitors
- PA systems
Notable Clients
Brighton Electric has hosted numerous renowned artists and bands, contributing to its reputation as a premier recording destination. Notable acts, including The Cure, Royal Blood and many others have recorded at the studio, further solidifying its status in the music industry. Here’s a shortlist of just some Brighton Electric’s client roster:-
Alice Russell , Alison Moyet, Alabama Shakes, Architects , Bat for Lashes, Bombay Bicycle Club, British Sea Power
Charli XCX, The Crazy World of Arthur Brown ,The Cure, Florence Welch, Foals, Fujiya & Myagi, Gary Moore, Gomez, Passenger, Pendulum, James, John Cale, The Kooks, Laura Marling, Little May, Loyd Grossman, Luke Sital-Singh, Matt Redman, Metronomy, Maccabees, Mumford and Sons, Newton Faulkner, Nick Cave, Pere Ubu, Royal Blood, Saxon, Sarah Blasko, Simon Raymonde, Soft Play, Stephen Street (Producer), Steve Mason (Beta Band), Tigercub, Wedding Present, Willy Mason, Wire and many more!
Conclusion
Brighton Electric is more than just a recording studio; it’s a community-driven space where musicians can thrive. With its rich history, exceptional facilities, and commitment to inclusivity, it stands out as a premier destination for artists of all levels. Whether you’re a local musician looking for a rehearsal space or a seasoned professional seeking a high-quality recording environment, Brighton Electric has something to offer.
For those looking to explore the vibrant music scene in Brighton, a visit to Brighton Electric is a must. Experience the exceptional facilities, meet fellow musicians, and immerse yourself in the creative atmosphere that this unique studio provides.
