GKM Mix Approach

5. GKM Mix Approach

Our goal is a consistent, high-quality listening experience that serves the songs and the congregation.

• Consistency: Aim for mixes that are balanced and sound good not just within a song, but from song-to-song and Sunday-to-Sunday. Avoid drastic week-to-week changes (e.g., overly bass-heavy one week, thin the next).
• Genre: We primarily operate within a Contemporary Christian Music (CCM) style, sometimes with Gospel influences.
• Balance:
  • Low End: Provide enough energy and foundation without being overwhelming or muddy. Kick and Bass should work together.
  • Vocals: Should sit clearly on top of the mix, easily intelligible, but still feel connected to the band, not completely separate. Use Background Vocals (BGVs) to support the lead, especially during lower register parts.
  • Instruments: Ensure all instruments have their place and contribute meaningfully without cluttering the mix.
• Serve the Song: While personal style exists, prioritize making the song sound its best according to its arrangement and intent, similar to how musicians stick close to the original track while adding their flavor.
• Dynamics: Use compression appropriately for control, but allow the mix to breathe. Don’t over-compress everything.
• Effects (Reverb/Delay): Use effects tastefully to create space, depth, and dimension. Avoid overly dry or overly “wet” sounds. Effects help “glue” the mix together and push elements back or bring them forward. Use delay throws for emphasis on specific vocal phrases.
• Mixing with Groups: Utilize the groups in the center section for broad adjustments during the service after establishing the initial input channel balance.