The Birth of Engine Ears
In 2001, I finished my first documentary, 'Are You on the Menu?' which left me with a thirst to create more!
Music and photography have always been my saviour, my passion, and so I thought why not marry the two? …
The Birth of Engine Ears
In 2001, I finished my first documentary, 'Are You on the Menu?' which left me with a thirst to create more!
Music and photography have always been my saviour, my passion, and so I thought why not marry the two? When I listen to music, I decipher and appreciate nuances and feel the messages brought by the engineers, producers and artists.
We all perceive in our own way and I believe the art of recording acts as it's own stage. Feeling, the majority of people do not venture that deep when it comes to interpreting these messages, I decided to bring them to light.
My first recruit for Engine Ears was the renowned Steve Albini. Setting the stage with Steve on board helped me round up many other notable engineers and producers who have a respect and camaraderie with and for his work.
When planning the film, the music industry was deciding whether or not to abandon the analogue world, with the digital world being introduced. Same goes for my formatting. When I started the film, I had a Hi8 camera until I graduated to a DV Cam (digital video). We were all moving in that the direction. Some stay true to using analogue only formats, while others infiltrate both formats and some solely digital.
It's all a matter of preference, style and desired outcome.
Engine Ears is chalk full of wonderful artists. I chose them out of a respect for the results of their work.
When interviewing, my style is character-based more than anything.
I draw out the best in people through my enthusiastic respect for their process and enjoyment of the end result.
Throughout the film, I experimented with different recording techniques and equipment, so I could have a log to share my results with you.
I spent 4 years shooting this very amazing experience, collecting footage throughout the US, Canada and Europe.
It's been incubating for a while now, but soon Engine Ears with be born!
I hope you enjoy the ride!
xo Holly aka Violet
