During its first year, Charleston Sound Studios released a compilation CD to get out the word. "Last year we wanted to let everyone know we were here," says Jeff Hodges, owner of and producer and mixer at the studio. So, they gave local artists the chance to record a song for the compilation, to get their name out there on a CD that is shipped nationwide.
Charleston Sound Studios began with Hodges seeing a need for high-end recording space in the city. To put Charleston on the map musically and to help out local acts--indie bands are only charged half of the studio's usual daily rate.
And he definitely didn't skimp. "I feel like it's a studio where even Paul McCartney could be comfortable."
Over the past year, 50 or so local and traveling bands have recorded at Charleston Sound Studios, including big names like Band of Horses, The Indigo Girls, and Grace Potter. They've put together their second compilation CD comprised of 13 local bands. Stand-outs of the album include Megan Jean & The Klay Family Band, Sky Paige & the Original Recipe, and Mary's Got a Band.
Of Mary's song "Polka Dot Tears" Hodges says, "I think their song can be subbed for any pop song on the radio right now."
The CD will be released tonight at the Pour House. 9 p.m. It will also be on sale at local record stores like Cat's, Monster Music, and 52.5. All proceeds go to the Charleston Animal Relief.
Hodges isn't in it for the money. "It's all about the artists, the town, who we're giving the profits to."
He says, "You know how they say you make a million dollars in the studio world? You start with two."
