Rycote Uncovered
Rycote Uncovered - Keith Alexander's Wind-Braving Sound Recording Expedition with Rycote's Audio Solutions
Keith Alexander
Freelance Sound Recordist
Keith Alexander, a Dublin-based freelance sound recordist, began his career in the music industry, managing bands and fostering a passion for sound and music. His love for studio recording led him to establish Lane Studio, and to work on projects such as ACDC's Thunderstruck. Keith recently embarked on a three-day sound recording expedition to the Aran Islands,off the coast of Ireland, that brought him to face severe weather conditions and breathtaking landscapes. Keith’s goal was to incorporate the wind into his sound design so he opted for Rycote's products, seeking a versatile and reliable kit that could withstand the harsh conditions of the island.
Keith, your journey in the music industry began with band management. Can you shed some light on how those early experiences shaped your interest in sound engineering and ultimately led you to choose a career as a sound recordist?
Keith Alexander: Starting in music and managing bands ignited my passion for sounds and music, this passion eventually led me to discover studio recording, which opened up a whole new world of opportunities for me. A few years ago, I had the chance to work with Venus Panelli, which brought me back to appreciating on-location sound effects. Our projects ranged from recording traditional Irish songs to producing a noteworthy underwater series. From there, I transitioned from studio to location sound, broadening my skill set to include post-production for film and TV, and later, animation. This varied experience has given me a well-rounded understanding of the sound industry.
Recently, you embarked on an expedition to the Aran Islands. Can you share what was the driving force that led you there?
Keith Alexander: My sound expeditions always combine a passion for music and recording with a sense of adventure and a desire for escapism: I always find it fascinating to hear and record sounds that nobody has heard before. Being challenged by the force of nature puts me in a problem-solving mindset to make clear, quality recordings. Nobody teaches you this; it's just you and nature. In this case, having the right equipment made all the difference.
What was the most challenging aspect during the expedition?
Keith Alexander: The Aran Islands’ projects presented several unique challenges, including the sheer amount of gear required and the constant, deafening wind coming in from the Atlantic. The wind was a major issue, especially during the winter months, and in these conditions, I need to trust my equipment implicitly. I had to learn to quickly change gear when needed and be creative, coming up with novel solutions to problems. For example, I doubled up on Rycote windshields for my Nanoshield to combat the relentless wind, especially out on the boat, which provided superior protection.
Despite the challenges, can you explain how you incorporated the wind into your sound design?
Keith Alexander: The complexities of the wind became a theme in the soundtrack. I used it in the sound design to emphasise the emotion and the personality of each shot.One of the most interesting recordings I captured was the sound of the wind through the walls of an ancient fort on the island with ambisonic mics. It sounded just like every voice those walls have heard for the past 4000 years, beautiful.
Which tools and what equipment have you used for this project?
Keith Alexander: During my time on the Aran Islands, I used a variety of equipment, including a Nanoshield, a HC-15 and a HC-22 microphones, for recording stereo sound effects. For one of the projects, I spent three days on the island recording sound effects. To capture the essence of the island effectively, I could use the elements to design a soundscape for the movie that was being produced for the project.
How does Rycote products help you to overcome the challenges you faced?
Keith Alexander: Rycote's products have been instrumental in my work. The Super-Softie, suspension mount for mics PCS, and booms for switching over mics have all been exceptional tools. I find the Classic-Softies and Super-Softies to be fantastic.
The HC-15 microphone sounds great with voice, and is a super-quiet mic which works well for vocals They're lightweight andadaptable essential during these projects.
‘For a separate project, I used accessories such as lav covers, stickies, Super-softies, and overcovers as well as Classic-Softies for concealing my mics as the predominant element that is present on the island during the winter is the thunderous winds that scour the island constantly. With the wind comes the cold and cold hands so all stands, booms and handles required the PCS system to allow easy exchange of mics to suit each situation
Keith Alexander
What was the must-to-have piece of equipment for your expedition?
Keith Alexander: The portable solutions - from the portable recording suspension to the one handle on PCS, and the boom’s mic stands. When you have space restrictions, it is fundamental to pack wisely and also to trust that your equipment will last for the whole expedition. You know, there are no Rycote retailers on the island!
Your expedition on Aran Islands really highlights the importance of reliable and adaptable equipment.
Keith Alexander: Yes, my work on the Islands demonstrates the importance of having reliable and adaptable equipment in challenging environments. Rycote's range of products covers everything. They're so versatile and diverse, from their fur softies to their PCS pop in and pop out system. It allows me to work in testing conditions and changing environments with confidence.