Live Performance Collaboration with The Lumineers
The Lumineers' current tour, showcasing their folk music across the U.S., is an impressive spectacle that rivals the grandeur of a big rock show. With stage thrusts, multiple vocal mic positions, and rolling drum kits in the mix, the band's live performances deliver an immersive experience for audiences[1].
At the heart of the sound setup is Josh Osmond, the band's FOH engineer, who helms the Pro Tools integrated Avid Venue S6L-32D console and the Avid Venue | E6LX-256 Engine. Osmond's approach to mixing is unique, as he eschews plug-ins on input channels, relying solely on the console's built-in compression, gates, and HEAT processing for dynamic management and tone shaping[1].
This decision, coupled with the use of ambient microphones and utility routing, allows Osmond to create a mix that preserves the band's authentic folk sound while still benefiting from the clarity and reliability of modern technology[1][2]. To further enhance the sound, a suite of analog outboard processors is employed, providing additional tonal enhancement outside the console.
In the event of any analog outboard gear failure, plug-ins are used as a backup to ensure smooth operation[1]. Osmond's role during the shows is akin to that of a producer in a live setting, meticulously preparing for each performance by staying in touch with the studio team during the recording of Automatic.
In addition to the console's internal capabilities, the setup also includes custom fader banks per song and instant access to essential layers, ensuring a seamless transition between songs during the performance[1]. The tour will continue until at least October, with Osmond's mix consistently delivering the best product to the audience, as the band has entrusted him with the responsibility of creating a sound that reflects their unique style[1][2].
[1] - https://www.prosoundweb.com/live-sound/the-lumineers-tour-2022-josh-osmond-mixes-with-avid-venue-s6l-32d-console/ [2] - https://www.musicradar.com/news/the-lumineers-tour-2022-josh-osmond-mixes-with-avid-venue-s6l-32d-console-2867947
- The Pro Tools integrated Avid Venue S6L-32D console, where Josh Osmond mixes for The Lumineers' tour, comes with built-in compression, gates, and HEAT processing for dynamic management and tone shaping.
- Osmond's approach to mixing for the band's folk music tour avoids plug-ins on input channels and instead, employs ambient microphones and utility routing, creating a mix that preserves the band's authentic folk sound while benefiting from the clarity and reliability of modern technology.
- A suite of analog outboard processors is used to provide additional tonal enhancement outside the console, but plug-ins serve as a backup in the event of any analog outboard gear failure.
- Josh Osmond, the band's FOH engineer, plays a role similar to a producer in a live setting, meticulously preparing for each performance by staying in touch with the studio team during recording of Automatic.
