Introduction to Josh Harrison
Josh Harrison is an accomplished British audio engineer, producer, mixer and audio educator, whose journey in the music industry is both inspiring and informative. Born in Colchester in the UK, starting his musical journey as a guitarist playing in local bands, his career has spanned various genres, collaborations, and projects, showcasing his versatility and dedication to his craft. This blog delves into his experiences, the studios he has worked in, and the artists he has collaborated with, offering insight into the life of what is to be a modern audio professional.
The Journey from Student to Professional
Josh’s journey in the music industry began in Essex, where he initially pursued a career in medicine and science. However, his passion for music led him to Brighton, where he enrolled in BIMM’s music production course. This decision proved pivotal, as it opened the door to numerous opportunities in the industry. During his time at BIMM, Josh developed essential skills and connections that would later serve him well.
From School to The Studio: Brighton Electric
Graduating from BIMM University in Brighton, Josh was given the opportunity to intern at Brighton Electric, a unique recording studio that has become a hub for musicians in the local area and from all over the world. Originally built as the old tram offices in Brighton, this Victorian building is rich in history and character. The studio has been operating for nearly 20 years, evolving from a few rehearsal rooms to a fully-fledged recording space with two world class control rooms, many rehearsal rooms, live production and a gear rental company all of which that attracts artists from upcoming to world renown.
Josh, originally working as an intern was paid in food from the Studio, namely Hoagies and soon garnered the nickname ‘Hoagie’. Starting as an assistant under Dan Swift, (Snow Patrol, Aqualung) his first session as an engineer at Brighton Electric was production sessions with local Brighton legends Royal Blood.
Josh describes Brighton Electric as an ideal place for a recording studio and rehearsal business due to its vibrant atmosphere and creative community.
Collaborations with Royal Blood
Josh’s collaborated with the band Royal Blood, working on their record that was initially recorded in Los Angeles. The band brought their recordings back to Brighton Electric for overdubs and additional work, showcasing the studio’s capability to accommodate high-profile projects.
He has continued to work with Royal Blood involving many extensive sessions, demonstrating his ability to adapt and innovate in the studio environment. This collaboration is just one example of the diverse range of artists Josh has worked with throughout his career.
Working with The Cure
One of the highlights of Josh’s career has been working with legendary band The Cure. Although he did not participate in any major album recordings, he played an essential role in their production rehearsals. The Cure often choose Brighton Electric for their rehearsals, allowing Josh to witness and assist in the process as they prepared for tours and have done recording preproduction.
During these sessions, Josh had the opportunity to engage with the band and their crew, gaining valuable insight into their creative process. The experience of recording and observing such a significant band has left a lasting impression on his career.
Chart Success – Engineering Sea Power
Josh Harrison was the lead engineer on Sea Powers 2017 album ‘Let the Dancers Inherit the Party’ and their most recent 2022 album ‘Everything was Forever’ which charted #4 in the UK album charts
The Role of Hard Work and Opportunity
Josh’s career trajectory highlights the importance of hard work and seizing opportunities. Initially starting as a runner, he quickly moved up to an engineering role when a colleague left for a tour with The Cure. This unexpected turn of events thrust him into the deep end, where he had to adapt quickly to the demands of the job.
His experience underscores the significance of being prepared for unexpected opportunities and the necessity of hard work in the music industry. Josh’s story serves as a reminder that dedication and perseverance can lead to incredible career advancements.
Teaching and Mentoring the Next Generation
In addition to his work as an engineer, Josh has also embraced teaching. He began teaching at BIMM, sharing his knowledge and experiences with aspiring audio professionals. This role has allowed him to give back to the community while staying connected to the evolving landscape of music production.
Teaching has not only been rewarding for Josh but has also provided him with fresh perspectives on music and production. Engaging with students allows him to stay current with new trends and sounds in the industry.
The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic
The COVID-19 pandemic posed significant challenges for the music industry, including a temporary halt in studio sessions. During this time, Josh adapted by focusing on teaching and remote collaborations. The pandemic highlighted the importance of flexibility and creativity in navigating the ever-changing landscape of the music industry.
Despite the challenges, he continued to work on music projects and maintain his connections within the industry, proving that resilience is vital for success in this field.
Conclusion: A Bright Future Ahead
Josh Harrison’s journey from aspiring musician to established audio engineer is a testament to his passion, hard work, and adaptability. His experiences at Brighton Electric, collaborations with renowned artists, and dedication to teaching illustrate the dynamic nature of the music industry.
As he continues to evolve in his career, there is no doubt that Josh will remain a significant figure in the world of music production, inspiring future generations of audio engineers and musicians alike.
