Harmony of Ambitions with Colin & Jackson

Apr 16

STUDIO Update: RUSSIAN BLUE |JULY 23 | Rolling Bay Hall (Bainbridge)

I’ve got a fun update for you about Empty Lane Studio. Just recently, I had the pleasure of experiencing their live show at Tracyton Movie House – Let me just say, it was an ethereal evening filled with melodies and moments that resonated deeply. And now, I’m sharing some of that magic with you through a collection of new photos - ENJOY.

Original Story:

Nestled down a quiet one-lane road stands a freestanding two-story building that houses the dreams and sounds of numerous artists—welcome to Empty Lane Studio. With its eclectic collection of instruments and a vibe that transforms stress into creativity, this studio is not just a building; it’s a sanctuary for musicians. The masterminds behind the studio, Colin and Jackson, have woven their personal histories and musical passions into the very fabric of Empty Lane, creating a space that is both inspiring and unassumingly revolutionary.

The Genesis of Empty Lane Studio

The seeds of Empty Lane Studio were planted in Colin's childhood, nurtured by his father's profound love for music. His home was a sanctuary of sound, with an extensive vinyl collection that spanned African dance music to Brazilian jazz, experimental hardcore, and British pop. For Colin, music was more than background noise; it was an immersive experience. "You sat down and listened, really listened to every instrument," he recalls. This deep appreciation for music didn't push him towards performing but rather honed his listening skills, which would later define his approach to music production.

Colin's journey began modestly in a home studio in Tacoma. The challenging times of COVID-19 and an unexpected financial stimulus provided him with a unique opportunity to transform his passion into a profession, aiming not just to profit but to create a space that celebrated art in its many forms.

Meanwhile, Jackson's musical path intersected with Colin's when he was just a high school student, playing in his first band. Upon meeting Colin, Jackson was inspired by the possibility of turning his passion into a sustainable career. "This could happen" Jackson realized, as he became not only a client but a pivotal figure in the studio's evolution. His hunger for knowledge and readiness to dive into the music business complemented Colin's vision perfectly.

Together, they designed and launched the current studio space in January 2023. The name "Empty Lane," a brainchild of Colin's early teenage years inspired by a song he wrote, mirrors the studio's physical seclusion and its philosophical commitment to creativity and potential. This collaboration marked the beginning of a new chapter for both, where passion projects and professional endeavors converge in harmony.

Unique Features of the Studio

Walking into Empty Lane Studio is like entering a musician’s playground. The main floor hosts a space that includes as a kitchen and leads into the control room. Upstairs, the loft is a treasure trove of musical instruments—from pianos and drum sets to guitars and a rare Hohner Pianet which Colin was blissfully toying with throughout our time together. This accessibility to various instruments is not just a feature but a cornerstone of their philosophy: to democratize music production and provide resources that local bands might not otherwise afford. Simply put, their mission is to get instruments into the hands of those who love to play.

The design of Empty Lane Studio itself is centered around creating an immersive experience. Artists have the option to stay on-site, which allows them to fully engage in their creative processes, free from external pressures and the constraints of time. Colin particularly cherishes the studio's atmosphere—a nurturing environment where artists are free to experiment and inhabit their creative spaces fully. Colin describes his affinity for experimental drums: “I really love albums that aren’t experimental in a result, but they’re conception is no stone left unturned.“

Overcoming Initial Challenges

Transitioning from a home-based studio to a larger space came with its set of challenges. Financial and operational hurdles were significant, but the biggest challenge was ensuring the studio maintained its core ethos of creativity and collaboration. Jackson notes that keeping the studio open to a community of musicians rather than turning it into a rigid commercial facility was key to retaining its unique vibe. Some of their most remarkable work has resulted from bands staying for extended sessions, ranging from two weeks to a month, which he considers among the best outputs of the studio. “Sometimes you want to just keep going without time constraints.” Jackson explains as we continue our conversation on the giant couch overlooking the loft full of instruments.

Spotlight on Talent

Empty Lane has become a hub for diverse musical talents. Colin and Jackson have worked on numerous memorable projects, including sessions with local bands like Russian Blue, The Banana Creatures, Chameleons, Darla Rae, Jordan Eller, The Astrotecs and collaborations that push the boundaries of sound. Clients often return, drawn by the studio's innovative approach and the personal touch Colin and Jackson bring to each session.

The Creative Process

At Empty Lane, the recording process is highly personalized. Colin describes their approach as part artist, part facilitator. They strive to build trust with artists, helping them to expand their creative horizons while respecting their artistic integrity. This approach has fostered an environment where artists are encouraged to explore new sounds and experiment without fear of judgment. The duo is especially fired up when talking about how many instruments they have available for musicians and bands who dont have access to them, or the out of town band who is recording. When asked about their instruments, the guys both lit up as Colin points to a synthesizer from the 80s, illustrating how they blend new and old technologies by recording with the latest computers and digital interfaces through analog consoles, capturing the best of both worlds with a certain charm that includes equipment like a mid-60s Sunn head and a Fender head also from the 60s.

Community Involvement

Both Colin and Jackson are deeply involved in the local music scene. They view the studio as an integral part of the community, hosting in-studio sessions and participating in local music events. (Next show: April 27th at The Tracyton Movie House) This engagement not only helps foster local talent but also builds a supportive network of artists and music enthusiasts.

Impact of Technology and Looking Ahead

While they cherish vintage equipment, Colin and Jackson are not averse to new technologies. They skillfully blend old and new tech, providing artists the best of both worlds. As for the future, plans are in the works for further renovations and expanding their technological capabilities, ensuring that Empty Lane remains at the cutting edge of music production.

Lessons Learned and Advice for Aspiring Studio Owners

The journey of Empty Lane Studio teaches that adaptability, community engagement, and a clear vision are crucial for success. For those looking to enter the industry, Colin advises building a network and focusing on collaborative growth rather than competition. Jackson adds a powerful nugget of advice: “know your worth”.

OUTRO

Empty Lane Studio, with its rich array of instruments, unique philosophy, and community-oriented approach, stands out as a beacon for artists and producers alike. Colin and Jackson continue to inspire and be inspired, proving that in the right environment, music isn’t just heard—it’s experienced.