How do you prepare for a recording session when you're unfamiliar with the artist's work or genre?

My approach always starts with research. First, I try to listen to the artist’s current and past material, if available, to identify patterns, understand the dynamics of their sound, and analyze their compositional style. It’s not about copying but about grasping their artistic vision so I can offer options that align with it.

For artists recording their first material, I find it very helpful to learn about their references. Knowing which artists they admire or what bass tones they prefer provides me with a clearer framework. This helps me envision the types of arrangements and bass sounds that are likely to meet their expectations.

Context is everything, and dedicating this time beforehand allows me to adapt better to the project and deliver results that feel authentic and aligned with the sound the artist is aiming for.

 This is always an exciting process to experience.  The best way is to have a number of references (more than one) to be able to feel the style:  what are the characterictic traits, phrases and tecniques used. It is a bit similar with what an AI is supposed to do but of course it cannot replace the human touch at least in the field of music. The evaluation tool for the result is always your own backround and taste. 

It's always a great challenge to be able to work on something that is not your genre. I also find it a fantastic way to improve.

So my approach is to give myself a few days to be able to study material of the genre that is requested of me, focusing on the techniques used and how the sound is created.

Once this is done, I do some tests to recreate the sound, also looking for various ways of playing it on the guitar.

Finally, I approach the song I have to work on, doing many tests before working on something definitive.

What I also find very important is the fact of continuing to study that genre even after the work in question, in order to make it mine and include it among my skills.

It doesn't change much for us, whether it's an old or a new client, known or unknown artist - as we are professionals with 20+ years of experience in the field and we always find a way to get it perfect. Usually we work with a music score and a reference audio that our clients provide. First we consult the client about the style that is wanted, dynamics and tempo in BPM, while we listen to the audios and follow the score to get the general idea. Then we have rehersals where we play along the reference audios and practice until we perfect it. During the whole process, we consult the client if we have any questions about the piece, or if we notice that something can be played differently to sound better. Once everyting is settled, we record it in a professional studio and send out the final product. Simple as that.

First of all, I ask the artist to send me the song that he or she wants me to record drums on and listen carefully to it.
If the song already has programmed drums I chat with the artist about the best way to give life to that idea of the drums.
If the song doesn't have programmed drums, I ask the artist to send me references about the sound and the vibe that he or she wants for the song. This part is very important and every single detail matters. The song or artist which the composer took inspiration from is key for me to understand where to go with the pattern and the sound.
If the composer is not sure about a reference I have the experience to understand what sound and grooves fit for each song and that is what I enjoy the most: Looking for the right sound that the song needs.
 

The first thing I do is to look for what common elements they have with styles or artists I already know, and since I am so familiar with so many styles, periods and sub-genres, it is usually easy for me to find that. Then I do a style analysis of the artist of the project to detect what rhythmic, harmonic, textural and emotional patterns are the most characteristic so that I am able to understand it and reconstruct the style myself. Of course, there are styles that are more complex than others, some very common and others not so common, some with few elements and others very rich and broad in stylistic resources, so the complexity of this process varies according to these factors.

Hello everyone, nice to meet you. When I’m preparing for a recording session with an artist whose work or genre is new to me, I focus on a few key steps to get fully aligned with their vision and ensure the session runs smoothly:

1. Research and Listen: I’ll spend time listening to the artist’s previous releases (if available) or any reference tracks they send that capture the vibe they’re after. This gives me a feel for their sound and lets me pinpoint any unique elements in their style that I should be aware of.

2. Study the Genre: I dive into the genre’s typical production and recording styles. This helps me understand what makes it distinct, whether it’s specific instrument tones, vocal treatment, or mixing techniques that the genre is known for. Even a brief immersion can reveal important nuances.

3. Pre-Session Communication: I reach out to the artist or producer to discuss their vision, goals for the session, and any specific sound references they have in mind. I’ll also ask about any technical or stylistic preferences and address any expectations for the final sound. These conversations clarify how best to support their style and make the most of our session.

4. Choosing Gear and Setup: Based on what I learn, I select the best-suited microphones, preamps, and processing tools to achieve the desired sound. For example, some genres benefit from vintage gear for a warmer, analog feel, while others might need a cleaner, modern setup. This helps me be prepared to capture the tones they’re looking for.

5. Flexible Mindset: When I’m less familiar with an artist’s style, I go in with an open mind, ready to adapt as I listen and learn from them. I may experiment and make adjustments on the fly based on how things are sounding in real-time. Being responsive to the artist’s feedback ensures the session captures their style accurately.

By approaching it this way, I can quickly get on the same page as the artist, respect the genre’s conventions, and create a comfortable space that supports their unique sound.

Thanks for reading. 

While I am fortunate enough to have many repeat clients, when working with someone new on Fiverr, you will very seldom be familiar with their work. 

Personally I try not to work with genres that I am not very familiar and comfortable with. It is important to deliver an authentic product to the client and if you are not 100% confident in the genre and your ability to deliver something that suits the genre, it would be disingenuous to the client to take on the order. 

Having said that, exposing yourself to a wide variety of genre's and style is an integral part of being a great session musician and you should have a solid understanding of multiple genres from jazz and classical to hip hop and metal. 

This is what sets great session musicians apart.