Another of the great ones is gone. Norman Smith had been a refrigeration engineer, but at 36, he decided to apply for an entry-level position as a recording technician at EMI in the UK. EMI had a strict caste system at the time and technical staff (the "white coats") were considered a rank below that of producers and even of balance engineers, who were allowed to sit in the mastering room. By 1962, Smith was promoted to balance engineer and was paired with George Martin for the first Beatles recordings. As balance engineer, he chose the microphones and recording equipment for each session and Smith is generally given a great deal of credit for the clarity and accuracy of the group's recordings from the beginning through the recording of <I>Revolver</I> in 1965. Because of Smith's age (he'd seen service in WWII) and EMI's dress code (ties and lab coats), Lennon nicknamed him "Normal." (Hence the title of Smith's autobiography: <I>John Lennon Called Me Normal</I>.)
I don't know how many are familiar with the Hadouk Trio, a very fine French ensemble. They play a mixture of world music and jazz which is very unique sounding and a lot of fun. They have quite a few CDs available as well as a DVD. They are not that well known in the US but their music is well worth seeking out.
I don't know how many are familiar with the Hadouk Trio, a very fine French ensemble. They play a mixture of world music and jazz which is very unique sounding and a lot of fun. They have quite a few CDs available as well as a DVD. They are not that well known in the US but their music is well worth seeking out.
More info can be found at: Hadouk Trio