Dead Wax

Gus Seyffert on Recording to Tape and Making Records That Feel Alive

Episode Summary

On this episode of DeadWax, Jack, Ryan, and Kane sit down with producer/multi-instrumentalist Gus Seyffert (Adele, Norah Jones, Beck, Roger Waters) for a deep dive into two beloved recordings: The Band’s “Up on Cripple Creek” and Dr. Dog’s “Listening In.” Gus breaks down what makes Levon Helm’s feel so unmistakable, from vocal/drum interlock to note value and tone, and how classic-era mixing tricks like hard panning plus shared reverb create that “band in a room” magic. Then they get nerdy (in the best way) about recording to tape, console mix moves, drum mic choices, and the real-world decisions—and happy accidents—behind Dr. Dog’s sound.

Episode Notes

Hosts: Jack Conte, Ryan Lerman, Kane Ritchotte

Guest: Gus Seyffert

Executive Producer: Ryan Lerman

Production Managers: Rachel McGowan, Phineas Alexander

Audio: Jack Light

Theme Music Mixed by: Caleb Parker