Nirvana's In Utero Problem: Steve Albini Discusses Record Label Issue (Daniel Sarkissian Interview)

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  • Опубліковано 3 січ 2025

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  • @DanielSarkissian
    @DanielSarkissian  4 роки тому +68

    Make sure to subscribe for more ............ Full interview with Steve Albini coming soon: This is my second interview with Steve Albini. The first interview we did was an in-person interview back in December of 2017. This new interview was also supposed to be an in-person interview, but due to the coronavirus situation, we elected to do this over Skype

    • @MrBooYa-yd5er
      @MrBooYa-yd5er 4 роки тому +3

      @dooder it's never been as bad. Check out The Chats if you like classic punk rock

    • @brianhurt116
      @brianhurt116 4 роки тому +2

      I really enjoyed this. Thanks for taking the time and for guiding such a great interview. Looking forward to more.

    • @brianhurt116
      @brianhurt116 4 роки тому

      @@kikeheebchinkjigaboo6631 False. Lame. Seeing the chemistry is beneficial and enjoyable.

    • @brianhurt116
      @brianhurt116 4 роки тому

      @@kikeheebchinkjigaboo6631 No need to be negative, man. Be thankful this is here at all. Being entitled and judgmental on the internet is not a good look for anyone. This interview is awesome.

    • @markvonwisco7369
      @markvonwisco7369 4 роки тому

      @@Reformed_Hamburglar Yes. Yes it is. Clueless billionaire David Geffen.

  • @MatthiasProspero
    @MatthiasProspero 4 роки тому +173

    It's a shame there aren't more Steve Albinis in the music industry.

    • @saint6563
      @saint6563 4 роки тому +1

      Steve has been involved, in many different facets, on almost 1,200 releases. "Technically" [mixing/producing/etc.] he's on almost 900.

    • @jjwillis2691
      @jjwillis2691 4 роки тому +2

      Yeah it's hard to sit back and blame Steve for nirvanas early departure from the scene and Cobain's untimely death. People will point the finger at anyone when all is lost. If he still remembers Kurt fondly than there's no ill will. I think Kurt did too many substances during and after his last record. That's why it sounds half complete or splintered. Too much of anything can do damage if not physically then psychological.

    • @AmericanSpyFox
      @AmericanSpyFox 4 роки тому

      According to Kurt Cobain, Steve made up all this drama for attention. I found a 1993 article full of Kurt quotes.

    • @saint6563
      @saint6563 4 роки тому

      @@AmericanSpyFox
      What did Steve say in this interview that was "made up"?

    • @MatthiasProspero
      @MatthiasProspero 4 роки тому

      @@AmericanSpyFox link?
      Not suggesting either side is perfect, but Albini's record speaks for itself. I say that also as a devoted fan of Kurt Cobain.

  • @Podcastage
    @Podcastage 4 роки тому +27

    Albini is so unique, and an absolute legend. Thank you for sharing this.

    • @ceptor7018
      @ceptor7018 4 роки тому

      U are the reason why i got a proper microphone for my music

  • @markadairofficial
    @markadairofficial 4 роки тому +334

    This is going to sound random, but very true. I picked up Steve Albini from Dublin airport to bring him to Belfast about 4 years ago to do a talk. He got in the back seat, lay down, and within minutes of him in the car, he was snoring.
    After a few days of taking him to record stores where he signed autographs, I took him back to Dublin airport where we spent 2 hours talking about Nirvana, and I asked him how the 2013 remixes came about. He said it was Krist's idea to do the remix. He apparently heard a Pink Floyd remix in 5.1, and phoned Steve up to get the ball rolling.
    Of course just before he left my car, I shook his hand and asked him if he would sign my 12' In Utero album. He signed it :
    "Mark, Thanks for everything! Steve Albini 2016".
    Photo uploaded to here : ibb.co/Bj3DFtd
    Edit - I wasn't expecting this short story to be so popular! I've now added another short story.
    I met Krist Novoselic when he was playing with Flipper in 2006. About 3 hours before the show, I asked the bouncer 'Can I get inside to use the bathroom?' He let me in. I had no intentions of using the bathroom, I just had to meet Krist. I heard the band soundchecking, success! I had to take a peek. I open the main doors of the stage, all of the sudden, I'm watching Krist play bass and absolutely couldn't believe my luck, because back then, he hadn't played live in a long time, and I never thought I'd hear that thundering Gibson bass and Ampeq amp! I watched them until they finished soundcheck, and I thought I should go over and say hello before the bouncer notices me. Krist went to the bathroom, so I waited until he came out of course...
    He comes back out of the bathroom, I said "Krist", he looks right at me, and now it has become very surreal. I said "My name is Mark, I just wanted to shake your hand and tell you that you inspired me to play bass. As a token of thanks, I want to give you my bands album", then I handed him a large envelope/press pack with the album inside. He took the pack and said "Aw, thanks Mark. I'll put it in my case, thanks for coming down!. I then said "I don't actually have a ticket, I just wanted to say thank you". Krist said "I think they're still selling tickets at the door... but STICK AROUND here and you'll be alright."
    I then asked for a photo, and got Bruce Loose (lead singer of Flipper) to take our photograph. Bruce said "Ah look at Krist, playing the big rock star!".
    I got to be at the front row, and stayed the whole show. For half of it, I closed my eyes and just experienced that REALLY loud bass, and took it in as him playing live, 2 meters in front of me, imagining I was back in 1993, haha.
    Krist was so kind and a gentle giant, I was absolutely floored by the whole experience, and by typing it out, I got to relive it again. I hope this story brightens your day.
    Me and Krist Novoselic in 2006 : ibb.co/XCN65Kq (He's a tall guy! I'm 5.9 foot, He's 6 foot 7"!)
    I also won a competition on his UA-cam page, where he sent me this note to confirm the correct answer, as well as a Nirvana book mark, and fliers for 'FairVote' which he was heavily involved in at the time.
    ibb.co/gM0sGqD
    Me trying to open Kurt Cobain's car '64 dart in 2018. : ibb.co/DksvwSW
    Thanks everyone.

    • @lifegetsintheway4296
      @lifegetsintheway4296 4 роки тому +4

      That's amazing.

    • @lehmooz7402
      @lehmooz7402 4 роки тому +4

      Thats brilliant mate

    • @mattm8689
      @mattm8689 4 роки тому +5

      Sounds random to some yes, but what is random to some is amazing to others. Awesome story man!!🤘

    • @Prime_Diecast_And_Toys
      @Prime_Diecast_And_Toys 4 роки тому +3

      Mark J Adair that’s awesome . Thanks for the share

    • @Cairo98_
      @Cairo98_ 4 роки тому +3

      Great little story, thanks for sharing.

  • @TheMisterMonkeyman
    @TheMisterMonkeyman 4 роки тому +114

    Steve Albini is just a real, stand-up guy working in a world of unethical clown-bags. He is an example of a man with principles and ethics...rare stuff these days. Plus he just f-ing rocks. Punk rock in every way, to the end. Peace.

    • @vilimbubas1302
      @vilimbubas1302 4 роки тому

      Correct

    • @hunterdavis3003
      @hunterdavis3003 4 роки тому +1

      Big black!

    • @slacktoryrecords4193
      @slacktoryrecords4193 4 роки тому +2

      All true. He’s very generous with his time and knowledge, has a great sense of humor, great taste in a lot of things. And In Utero is hardly the pinnacle of his career; he’s worked on so many better records. My current favorite recording of his is the Screaming Females song “Something Ugly” from 2012. Brilliant stuff. 3-piece punk rock recording doesn’t get any better than that.

    • @Onche518
      @Onche518 4 роки тому +2

      Well his best works are from his own bands

    • @slacktoryrecords4193
      @slacktoryrecords4193 4 роки тому +3

      jesus ocando Yes, everyone has stories about Albini being a dick... 25+ years ago. He isn’t like that anymore. Watch any interview with him, or read what people who’ve worked with him in the last 20 years have to say. People change.

  • @Vaeren222
    @Vaeren222 4 роки тому +134

    In Utero is one of the best sounding records of all time and the best sounding grunge record.

    • @solomonlee5298
      @solomonlee5298 4 роки тому +2

      Period.

    • @rowanb4395
      @rowanb4395 4 роки тому +1

      Agreed!

    • @Seekarr
      @Seekarr 4 роки тому +8

      It's Nirvana's artistic masterpiece. Of course it wasn't going to be as big as Nevermind, which was made to be the ultimate pop album. In Kurt's definition, the pop industry was basically the under 6 minute verse chorus verse style of music. In Utero was still wildly successful at 15 million sold (officially, it could be more).

    • @patthewoodboy
      @patthewoodboy 4 роки тому

      agree

    • @ronaldjames6067
      @ronaldjames6067 4 роки тому +6

      It sounds so fucking loud !
      Serve the Servants is one of the best opening tracks to an album, for sure !

  • @tokinGLX
    @tokinGLX 4 роки тому +14

    steve is honorable af, and i am thankful for him and people like him

  • @deondoughty4418
    @deondoughty4418 4 роки тому +53

    A great interview. Steve, you’re ethics are tremendous. Your art of recoding has created Rock and Roll masterpieces. Thank you for your dedication and talent.

    • @christyree3723
      @christyree3723 4 роки тому +2

      Spot on

    • @scottlosey4978
      @scottlosey4978 4 роки тому +1

      Mostly punk....., but, absolutely spot on!

    • @TheReverb1
      @TheReverb1 4 роки тому

      @@scottlosey4978 and other excellent bands like Man or Astroman? but the best drums are his recordings of Shellac

  • @rowanb4395
    @rowanb4395 4 роки тому +9

    I still remember exactly where I was standing when I heard the drum tone on this record for the first time! and THEN Scentless Apprentice came on! Absolute classic, Great work Steve! Your ethics are through the roof and It's good to know people like you exist.

  • @mafeuk
    @mafeuk 4 роки тому +68

    The more I know about Geffen records the more I think they are the worst major record label of all time. So sad how they fucked the life of a man with integrity as Steve Albini and then in 2008 how they fucked over music history with the fire that destroyed the master recordings of artists under Universal Music Group including Nirvana.

    • @vilimbubas1302
      @vilimbubas1302 4 роки тому +6

      Businessmen has destroyed all society, all labels are like that, if you didnt know that than you didnt work ever for employer or you live on Mars, and than i wonder why we live in fucked up society...How old are you? 10? Mothers milk? Smells like...

    • @craigusselman546
      @craigusselman546 4 роки тому +7

      @@Z.November in his Nirvana paid giant COVID yacht.

    • @michaelmcdonald8452
      @michaelmcdonald8452 4 роки тому +9

      Vilim bubaš You’re a fucking idiot

    • @wanderingsurf2842
      @wanderingsurf2842 4 роки тому

      @@Z.November accurate.

    • @vilimbubas1302
      @vilimbubas1302 4 роки тому

      Michael Mcdonald- And you are better? Businessman maybe?

  • @satevo462
    @satevo462 4 роки тому +37

    The worse part about being a musician is the music industry.

    • @buffluffstuff
      @buffluffstuff 4 роки тому

      What's the worst part?

    • @peterhopqk
      @peterhopqk 3 роки тому

      @@buffluffstuff Exactly that. The music industry.

    • @buffluffstuff
      @buffluffstuff 3 роки тому

      @@peterhopqk it was a joke about worse/vs worst

    • @peterhopqk
      @peterhopqk 3 роки тому

      @@buffluffstuff It is still true.

    • @buffluffstuff
      @buffluffstuff 3 роки тому

      @@peterhopqk dude I'm just pointing out people don't know when to use worse vs worst. That's it.

  • @Antonio_Vasquez
    @Antonio_Vasquez 4 роки тому +129

    In Utero, hands down, is Nirvana's best album. Steve's production is absolutely magnificent.

    • @thebeasters
      @thebeasters 4 роки тому +9

      Can you imagine what would of followed. Just started to peak

    • @nickfanzo
      @nickfanzo 4 роки тому +1

      Atonio Vasquez agreed

    • @leekayfabe
      @leekayfabe 4 роки тому +2

      I love the songs, but I think it is probably my favorite sounding record ever.

    • @Antonio_Vasquez
      @Antonio_Vasquez 4 роки тому +2

      @@vitalogynevermind6829 Second best.

    • @shnpio
      @shnpio 4 роки тому

      Vitalogy Nevermind nope

  • @RS-pp7ng
    @RS-pp7ng 4 роки тому +119

    This is why major record labels are all dying and Steve is still making records :)

    • @DeadKoby
      @DeadKoby 4 роки тому +2

      Steve is very artist centered..... Some of his stories are funny. My favorite was about a dude that had created his own vocal sound... cupping a mic and screaming through a guitar amp. Steve thought it sounded like rubbish, but recorded whatever came from the guitar amp. The artist was THRILLED that it was HIS SOUND on a record.

    • @flower5185
      @flower5185 4 роки тому +8

      Nah, record labels are dying because there's significantly less money in releasing music once selling physical media fell off a cliff. Albini is still working because of his integrity and because he's damn good at it

    • @mikeblanchard7579
      @mikeblanchard7579 4 роки тому +2

      @@flower5185 major labels are also dying because almost every successful band/artists start thier own label now

    • @allsystemsgo8678
      @allsystemsgo8678 4 роки тому +1

      @@mikeblanchard7579 No, they're dying because of downloading. Theirs not a successful band out there that wouldn't rather have the business model pre y2k.

    • @mikeblanchard7579
      @mikeblanchard7579 4 роки тому

      @@allsystemsgo8678 downloading really? Where do you think the music comes from first in order to be downloaded? That's right a label releases it....downloading kills sales not labels lol

  • @shane1472
    @shane1472 4 роки тому +34

    He seems like a really good dude

  • @krisfrederick5001
    @krisfrederick5001 4 роки тому +50

    Don't worry David Geffen is "self quarantining" right now on his yacht not worrying about you Steve. Or caring about anyone else. But we appreciate the record and what you went through, I had no idea it was like that.

    • @MrBooYa-yd5er
      @MrBooYa-yd5er 4 роки тому +6

      He was over noble but I think it would have been more stressful for Kurt without the selfless nature of Steve. Kurt wanting almost all of the money for himself was not but it may have been Courtney's influence and he was under a lot of pressure.

    • @krisfrederick5001
      @krisfrederick5001 4 роки тому +4

      @@vilimbubas1302 Cheer up buttercup

    • @mattm8689
      @mattm8689 4 роки тому +6

      Vilim bubaš 🤦🏼‍♂️no influence??? Without them there would be no nirvana as we know it. Yea Kurt would have been successful himself but to think that he coulda done it all himself without them and still make the music that we all know and love is just pure idiotic insanity. Kurt was a once in a life time musician and artist but without Dave playing drums as hard and as intense as he did and Krist being the one and only bassist to ever play with Kurt I have a hard time seeing Nirvana becoming what they became. I’m one of the biggest Nirvana fans ever and Kurt Cobain is dam near a god to me (which he would have hated so much) but I just don’t see how you can actually be a true fan and believe some BS like that.

    • @sugarwalls2022
      @sugarwalls2022 4 роки тому +6

      @@vilimbubas1302 You can only write what you just wrote if you never played with several people, or/and not possess enough sensitivity to understand differences from musician to musician.
      We all sound different, we all "feel" different. They were Kurt's songs yes. But Kurt didn't write the drum parts nor the bass parts did he? Didn't play or record those instruments either did he? They did have a huge influence on Nirvana and Kurt's songs.
      Try this exercise: -imagine Vinny Colaiuta on drums and Jaco Pastorius on bass playing with Kurt Cobain. How would Nirvana sound like?

    • @noiseannoys_
      @noiseannoys_ 4 роки тому +4

      First off. If I had a billion dollars I’d be on a yacht too. Don’t act like you wouldn’t. If not a yacht then a big fucking house. I don’t get why people hate on the rich right now. And I’m poor as fuck. I’m a bar tender and was one of the first to get laid off. So, yeah, complaining about the rich in this situation is just projecting jealousy. And to whoever was calling Dave and Krist session player?!?!?! Obviously has never been in a band before. If Kurt recorded In Utero or any album for that matter with 100 different drummers and bass players it would never sound like Nirvana. Dave Grohl is fucking Dave Grohl and Krist is highly underrated for his bass playing. There’s chemistry when it comes to bands and some members just can’t be replaced. There’s a reason Krist was the only bass player and that there was 4? drummers before Dave. Just like there was a reason Kurt decided to add Pat as a second guitarist.

  • @archiebotten4061
    @archiebotten4061 4 роки тому +106

    Kinda funny how they told him it was awful but now it's arguably the best studio album

    • @christyree3723
      @christyree3723 4 роки тому +4

      I fucken agree 100 percent

    • @chefpoet1972
      @chefpoet1972 4 роки тому +16

      I agree. As great as Nevermind is In Utero is, in my opinion, a better album for not having just "hits."

    • @Cairo98_
      @Cairo98_ 4 роки тому +13

      @@chefpoet1972 That was the sound Kurt wanted. Wish we got more 'acoustic' stuff though, Unplugged is so good lol.

    • @bofdiggy1918
      @bofdiggy1918 4 роки тому +10

      No offense but that comment is crazy. Nevermind was the 90s Sgt. Pepper or Dark Side of the Moon. Its a perfect album, cover to cover. Impossible to follow-up. I might even argue that Smells like Teen Spirit is the worst song of the lot.

    • @archiebotten4061
      @archiebotten4061 4 роки тому

      @@bofdiggy1918 i meant nirvana's best studio album but ok sure

  • @Rompler_Rocco
    @Rompler_Rocco 4 роки тому +1

    I can and will listen to Steve all day. His generous sharing of acquired wisdom has enriched my life many times over.. And is a resource which will forever benefit anyone interested in music, recording (especially on tape) or coffee.
    Thank you for getting him back to your channel! 👍👍

  • @gianlucacupo533
    @gianlucacupo533 4 роки тому +3

    Thanks for the great content, quality people are very few in this world...always a pleasure to hear two of them.

  • @austinhunt4260
    @austinhunt4260 4 роки тому +5

    Thank you Daniel. Love your work and always love listening to Steve. Has to be one of the most articulate and ethical music industry legends ever.

  • @zackmano
    @zackmano 4 роки тому +29

    Nirvana was lucky to work with a guy with some real integrity. Unfortunately DGC and many of the people surrounding the band were basically running a con job on them, grabbing as much as they could and trying to keep the money rolling in.

    • @TheMisterMonkeyman
      @TheMisterMonkeyman 4 роки тому +4

      Unfortunately that is how the music business works.Emphasis on BUSINESS. Glad all the bean counters and talentless hacks (unless one considers making profit at all costs talent) are dying out. Good riddance to bad rubbish. Peace.

  • @iCapobranco
    @iCapobranco 4 роки тому +1

    We had the chance to work with Steve Albini in 2018. He recorded and mixed our last album. We were amazed by the guy, he is an incredible professional and a genuine talent at his job. Would work with him again at any time.

  • @scottdorfler2551
    @scottdorfler2551 4 роки тому +1

    In Utero is by far my favorite Nirvana record.
    One of my favorites records period! The energy you captured in that recording inspires me to this day. I'm a true believer in live recording.
    It's the hardest thing to pull off but it's worth the time and effort for the right bands. THANK YOU! THANK YOU! THANK YOU! You're
    a freaking genius.

    • @DadaPoopoo
      @DadaPoopoo 4 роки тому

      You think Steve is scrolling through UA-cam comment sections looking for validation?

    • @scottdorfler2551
      @scottdorfler2551 4 роки тому

      @@DadaPoopoo No but that night I did.

    • @DadaPoopoo
      @DadaPoopoo 4 роки тому

      @@scottdorfler2551 (っ˘̩╭╮˘̩)っ

  • @fizzyfuzz5878
    @fizzyfuzz5878 2 роки тому

    You have such an underrated channel. The people you talk to is incredible in relation to music history.

  • @scottdorfler2551
    @scottdorfler2551 4 роки тому +11

    He recorded another great album in 94, Jesus Lizard, Down. Another one of my all time favorites. Another incredible sounding record!

    • @BeatleBradley
      @BeatleBradley 4 роки тому +1

      “Down” is a masterpiece. My fav JL record for sure.

    • @skyb8687
      @skyb8687 4 роки тому +1

      What a unique underrated band

    • @malloid
      @malloid 3 роки тому +1

      "Goat" is my favourite Jesus Lizard album - also recorded by Albini. Dave Grohl has said on numerous occasions that he was heavily into The Jesus Lizard at the time. This almost certainly informed their decision to hire Albini for In Utero.

    • @malloid
      @malloid 3 роки тому

      And let's not forget "Head" either - also recorded by Albini. "7 vs. 8" on that LP is just sublime.

    • @scottdorfler2551
      @scottdorfler2551 3 роки тому

      @@malloid It's impossible for me to pick a favorite J.L. record. My favorite is the one I'm listening to at the time.

  • @Ludeguy83
    @Ludeguy83 4 роки тому +14

    This is why kurt wanted steve to produce in utero... outside the box!!! Steve is that kind of guy! Cheers, awesome video

    • @dagedelu
      @dagedelu 4 роки тому +2

      "in utero... outside the box" ... funny line, made me laugh.

  • @3aw77
    @3aw77 4 роки тому +14

    Utero one of the best sounding records out in this World

  • @ikigai47
    @ikigai47 3 роки тому +2

    Steve's logic in turning down the money would make more sense if he could ensure his royalty cut would go to the band. In reality the record company probably got to keep it and laughed at him for it. I really wish he'd have kept it. He could still give it away, but at least he'd have full control over where it went. I do respect his integrity though. Sooooo rare in the music business. But I don't think him taking a small royalty cut would have put a dent in that integrity. Krist/Dave/Kurt would have still had more money than they knew what to do with, and Steve DID play a role in creating a masterpiece that will outlive our great great grandkid's grandkids. You can't compare that to some regular blue collar job.

  • @TJS3
    @TJS3 4 роки тому +12

    This story is weird one, I too had first the picture that Steve Albini is dick and hard to work with, this comes from the mainstream media. Then after reading interviews, books etc. the truth is Steve was doing the normal work he does and gets blamed for it. Still to this day In utero is my favorite record.

  • @rufonfire9015
    @rufonfire9015 4 роки тому +80

    People: "Nevermind is too clean"
    People: "In Utero is too dirty"
    C'mon people!!!!

    • @Cairo98_
      @Cairo98_ 4 роки тому +6

      Love them both. When I want heavy Nirvana, I'll listen to Bleach, when I want softer Nirvana, I'll listen to Unplugged. When I want to just jam out to their hits, Nevermind it is.

    • @TheRubberStudiosASMR
      @TheRubberStudiosASMR 4 роки тому +5

      True Nirvana fans would like anything. Hell, I'd buy the Fecal Matter tapes if that was their follow up to In Utero.

    • @terrymcginnis4633
      @terrymcginnis4633 4 роки тому +4

      i loved that about in utero

    • @AndyNyle
      @AndyNyle 4 роки тому +3

      i wonder if nevermind was called nevermind for that very reason that it was too clean and not what Kurt/Nirvana saw as their sound

    • @Cairo98_
      @Cairo98_ 4 роки тому +2

      @@AndyNyle Or the lyric in SLTS: "Oh well, whatever, NEVERMIND" who knows.

  • @SpiritsOfAnotherDay
    @SpiritsOfAnotherDay 4 роки тому +2

    Good interview DS. Nice interviewing style... Steve Albini is always a concise and self-actualized person. Good stuff out of this particular piece.

  • @465marko
    @465marko 4 роки тому +45

    I never knew it had such a negative impact on him at the time, sending him broke, being ostracised etc.
    Previously I thought he'd gotten paid a pretty large flat fee, so must have done alright from it. But it sounds like he might have been better off if he'd never touched it.
    He's a good guy though. i really admire him.

    • @DeLoreanPug
      @DeLoreanPug 4 роки тому +2

      dooder, In Utero was recorded in his previous studio in which he still had bills to pay, he owns his current studio in Chicago and still has bills to pay. Without income a studio can’t survive regardless of if the studio owns the building or not there are a ton of bills that are connected to that business itself. That’s why a ton of large studios have shut down or open their doors to other opportunities to bring in revenue like holding classes in audio engineering and holding private events etc. it’s a tough business to be in these days I’m sure, but Electrical Audio is in a very good position currently. He may have suffered a bit during that time but now he’s a highly sought after engineer that is somewhat affordable.

    • @slacktoryrecords4193
      @slacktoryrecords4193 4 роки тому +2

      tIMothy Francis Pachyderm wasn’t his studio, he just worked on a few records there, including Rid Of Me. He recorded all over the place. He had a studio of his own before Electrical Audio, but it wasn’t Pachyderm.

    • @TestMeatDollSteak
      @TestMeatDollSteak 4 роки тому +3

      In the short term, he might’ve been better off if he hadn’t worked with Nirvana, but I’m sure he’d admit that in the long term his connection to that band and album has immensely helped him professionally. Today, the record label’s criticisms of In Utero are merely an esoteric footnote in the band’s history, and Kurt and Nirvana’s impact on modern musicians has arguably only increased over the intervening years since the band’s demise. Millions of people love that album, its songs and production have withstood the tests of time, and there’s no question that Steve’s involvement with that record continues to bring him big business, as well as near celebrity attention to this day.

    • @465marko
      @465marko 4 роки тому +1

      @TestMeatDollSteak Yeah, gotta think you're right. Short-term pain for longer-term gain.
      I'm pretty sure that album was my entry point to Albini, the first thing that made me pay any attention to him at all. And I'm guessing that's true for a lot of people, given how big the album was and how strongly his name was tied to it.
      I think he was still pretty distinctive before In Utero, but I guess he wouldn't be as well-known.

    • @aryehwiznitzer9060
      @aryehwiznitzer9060 4 роки тому +1

      In the letter that they reference he just tells the band to pay him whatever they think is fair. Which is pretty cool in my opinion. I think the people in that band are decent people and not douchebags so I assume they paid him pretty well.

  • @123spleege
    @123spleege 4 роки тому +2

    I spent 8 days at Electrical with Albini and my band. One of the best experiences of my life. He was open to any question. Totally picked his brain on Nirvana and he was fair and diplomatic. Also, microphone choices, building his studio, air spaces, and surfaces....as much as I could wring out of him. so cool. He would just cruise around in his blue mechanic's suit. The interns were great as well. And there were always new Onions on the control room coffee table. He is what he says he is with no crap. We slept in the studio and I remember getting pizza delivered most days. Really great guy and I got an old Rapeman flyer from the day as well.

    • @hoirecords
      @hoirecords 4 роки тому +2

      123spleege I got to spend a few weeks there with my band as well. I couldn’t say enough nice things about Steve and how gracious he is with his studio, his time, and his knowledge. He seems embarrassed by the attention of being called a saint in an industry of scoundrels, but look at the man’s actions. I’ve seen three or four educational videos during this pandemic alone where he freely gives his time to help/educate others.

  • @pheonix72
    @pheonix72 4 роки тому

    Awesome interview. Such a talented engineer/producer. I remember the gossip, opinion pieces, editorials and articles in the music press around that time -- especially Melody Maker -- and this interview fills in the blanks.

  • @philthymofo
    @philthymofo 4 роки тому +7

    Steve's catalog of recordings is a list of some of the best albums in existence.

    • @AirCanada1J5
      @AirCanada1J5 4 роки тому

      I think you go to the grave happier with something like this than compensation. You are correct btw.

  • @Plymouthmusicschool
    @Plymouthmusicschool 4 роки тому +2

    I love his ethics...makes a lot of sense. I think that some producers take the lifetime royalty option because they are helping in the writing process as a producer. Nirvana didn’t need help in that aspect. They in essence produced the album themselves and full creative control.

  • @scottudell7202
    @scottudell7202 4 роки тому +1

    Steve Albini is, in my opinion, one of the greatest producers to ever live. His work has always astounded me. And the fact that he only takes a flat rate and doesn't want to take royalties from the bands he works with is absolutely awesome. You don't find many top-tier recorders (he hates the term "producer") who do that.

  • @jaybone8119
    @jaybone8119 4 роки тому +4

    A rarity to find an ethical person in the entertainment industry. A real standup guy, In Utero is one of my favorite records of all time.

  • @willjam71
    @willjam71 4 роки тому

    I get the feeling these old players in the nirvana world feel comfortable talking with you. You come across as someone who wants to learn about those years, and not just some fan boy. Great interviews and an amazing enduring band. Love nirvana forever

  • @christyree3723
    @christyree3723 4 роки тому +2

    Steve your recordings are amazing.

  • @xtrobitzmusic2405
    @xtrobitzmusic2405 4 роки тому +1

    🦴 Good to see Steve Albini is still a music producer.
    Good Luck and don't give up if the music doesn't pay. On a different subject, I'm a bit over some of the mini alternative celebs whingeing about the industry because COVID19 has rendered them nutless. They are without a small live audience to breathe a few bucks into their bank account. Maybe they should spare a thought for the whispering souls. A lot of people died out there one third into 2020. This is my uninsightful quarantine rant.

  • @jamisonkasian2755
    @jamisonkasian2755 4 роки тому +4

    One thing that may have been cut/edited (or maybe just alluded to as Albini's fee vs royalty talk and the fallout of the record took center stage here)- as part of nirvana circumventing label interference they paid for the record themselves- no advance from geffen/dgc for studio time, etc. Pretty sure Albini is the one who put that thought into their heads, as it put their management and dgc in a tough spot and gave the band an insane amount of freedom. It also precluded the label from demanding the album be re-done, as only the promotion and distribution was on the geffen dime. Then again, as Albini mentioned, nirvana's management and label were not exactly subtle in the campaign to shit on the record and spin it as a failure creatively and commercially. David Grohl was smart to have Foo Fighters be an self-owned entity, only using major labels for P & D.

  • @christyree3723
    @christyree3723 4 роки тому +1

    Daniel, you just got yourself a new subscriber. Thanks for this amazing interview.

  • @Mineav
    @Mineav 4 роки тому +1

    I may not agree with everything he says, but I greatly respect a man of principle like Mr. Albini.

  • @TheRubberStudiosASMR
    @TheRubberStudiosASMR 4 роки тому +20

    In Utero is a brilliant record. Geffen or whatever didn't have a clue.

    • @readmelancholystrumpetmaster
      @readmelancholystrumpetmaster 4 роки тому

      No, they had real commercial concerns, like the record beginning with the worst song, arguably a filler track. You're right: it is a brilliant record, but not what anyone would think might follow NVM.

    • @Thisworldthisweek
      @Thisworldthisweek 4 роки тому

      My favorite is In Utero.

    • @DamusNostril
      @DamusNostril 4 роки тому +1

      we've only heard the re-recorded album that had tracks remixed by Scott Litt and Wallace. so in all fairness we've never heard the original mix that the management at Geffen had heard. I know they did a re-release in 2013 which had an 'albini' mix, but that's not the '93 original. if you asked those at Geffen, I'm sure they'd say they saved the album from being a dumpster fire. I like Albini but he might have his head up his own ass.

    • @hoirecords
      @hoirecords 4 роки тому +1

      DamusNostril I’ve never hear that the album was re-recorded except for the vocals/mix on two songs. That may have just been a re-mix on the two songs as well. I can’t remember, but either way, the album is the album that Steve Albini recorded with the band, and unless I’m mistaken, aside from All Apologies and HSB, it’s the mix that Steve did with the band as well.

  • @malmstrim
    @malmstrim 4 роки тому

    Hey Daniel, you may have a deviated septum if you’re not already aware. There’s an audible whistle when you breathe through your nose sometimes, deviation usually causes that.

  • @shane1472
    @shane1472 4 роки тому +5

    Great interview

  • @j_freed
    @j_freed 4 роки тому +1

    I would say a number of producers contribute creatively almost as a member of the band, whether it's Bob Rock or Daniel Lanois. Dan's own sound as an artist contributed a transformative musical force to Unforgettable Fire, Joshua Tree, Achtung Baby.
    But I guess they could share song writing credits where due, rather than taking a royalty for being in the role of the overseer, which is sort of the producer role.

  • @ghostwriterinme5050
    @ghostwriterinme5050 4 роки тому

    Great interview, who knew. I have a lot of respect for Steve Albini with all things considered.

  • @nellsonogmore5938
    @nellsonogmore5938 4 роки тому +3

    The sound of In Utero changed my way of thinking. That drums sound!!

    • @gerrypeacemaker9407
      @gerrypeacemaker9407 4 роки тому +1

      Neil Dugmore You should check out the drums on his Rapeman album ❤️

  • @blackphillip8486
    @blackphillip8486 4 роки тому +2

    My favorite album he ever produced (and one of my favorite albums overall) is Made Out of Babies sophomore release "Coward." Goddamn, words can't do that masterpiece justice. If you only check out one song make sure it's the album closer "Gunt."

  • @PepisMusicmx
    @PepisMusicmx 4 роки тому

    Thanks for this interview

  • @octavioimazio
    @octavioimazio 4 роки тому

    I just saw one minute of this interview and i am already Fan number one!

  • @demonicsweaters
    @demonicsweaters 4 роки тому +2

    He's crazy man. He should have worked a royalty deal. It's business, Kurt is dead, and those assholes at Geffen are still raking in cash from all this stuff.

  • @thevinyltruffle
    @thevinyltruffle 4 роки тому +2

    The Albini mix is by far the best. I love that album and this mix makes it that much better. Real fucking grunge.

  • @Freakaboogie
    @Freakaboogie 4 роки тому +1

    WOW. another fantastic video!!

  • @bluespyusa8979
    @bluespyusa8979 4 роки тому +1

    I love seeing close ups of you nodding...they make Steve's points much better : )

  • @tanglung4379
    @tanglung4379 4 роки тому +3

    i think u create a piece of history , music history , nirvana history , nice interwiew , very good job .

  • @amysainz9737
    @amysainz9737 4 роки тому +1

    I own the steve Albini mix on vinyl.. Recorded on tape and mastered for vinyl. Spectacular record to own.

  • @pietroenrico
    @pietroenrico 4 роки тому

    Just loved Steve Albini's ethic views and posture. Awesome, thanks for that =)

  • @silversuit66
    @silversuit66 4 роки тому +1

    I wish we could hear more from Steve’s production on Auteurs After Murder Park. Masterpiece record - his production on it was amazing.

  • @gl3nnium
    @gl3nnium 4 роки тому +2

    Undoubtedly a great guy. Steve must be so sick by now of people asking him the same royalties question about inutero. I've seen him answer the same question in interviews half a dozen times. He even spent a big chunk of his Sonic highways episode answering it. Oh well. Massive respect for Steve Albini.

  • @scottlosey4978
    @scottlosey4978 4 роки тому

    GREAT, GREAT CONTENT......I SUBSCRIBED AND LIKED......I enjoy hearing information that has not been over told ... over analysed.....

  • @diomiherrington
    @diomiherrington Рік тому

    This is just one of many reasons that Steve Albini is my favorite producer (ahem, pardon me- “Recorder/Engineer”) of all time.
    On a side note, a list of other legendary/cult favorite bands he’s done records for are:
    1. Failure- Comfort
    2. The Pixies- Surfer Rosa (duh)
    3. Slint- Tweez
    4. The Breeders- Pod (on which Slint’s drummer Britt Walford played)
    5. Hum
    6. The Jesus Lizard- Head (1990, Goat (1991) most notably
    7. Tar
    8. PJ Harvey
    9. Helmet
    10. Bush
    11. Veruca Salt
    12. Tad
    13. Urge Overkill
    14. Silkworm
    15. Killdozer
    The list goes on and on.

  • @deathkampdrone
    @deathkampdrone 4 роки тому

    Albini is a master of recording rock bands. Especially he is the best at recording drums, which ultimately makes his record productions homogenic - almost a live feel to a lot of his productions. But maybe "real rockbands" just weren't what the company was after? Probably they wanted a watered down version of Nirvana, that would reach an even wider audience than what they already had. And the rest of us are just happy that they eventually ended up working with Steve on what would become their one masterpiece.
    Actually, on a different not here, I would love to see an interview with Albini only focused on his favorite drummers in studio. He has worked with so many great artists. Would totally love to get some details on making bands like Tar or Jesus Lizard sound so vital! Great upload btw ;)

  • @louisespencer9889
    @louisespencer9889 3 роки тому

    I love the way In Utero sounds.
    To Mr. Albinj, with love, from Memphis TN

  • @ToneSherpa
    @ToneSherpa 4 роки тому +1

    That Steve sure is a unique and interesting guy. We need more guys like him around.

  • @BELLAoBARTALK
    @BELLAoBARTALK 4 роки тому

    Great interview. Steve is awesome.

  • @greatfelixo
    @greatfelixo 4 роки тому

    Albini's production is one of the main reasons that In Utero is the best Nirvana album. Glad to see he is still putting out great records, the new Flat Worms album is killer if you haven't heard it. Would love to hear him work with Oh Sees in the future.

  • @ltcm5052
    @ltcm5052 Рік тому

    This is fascinating. Albini is such a genius.

  • @southwestbleach
    @southwestbleach 4 роки тому

    AMAZING feature. !!!

  • @voronOsphere
    @voronOsphere 4 роки тому +1

    Steve's one of my very favorite engineers! Also, I love his bands, especially Shellac!

  • @nateblack8669
    @nateblack8669 4 роки тому

    Big Black is the most influential band on me and the reason why I started using a drum machine. I've also seen Shellac and met Steve and Todd. I love this man ❤

  • @caseycbenn
    @caseycbenn 4 роки тому +1

    Head of David's Dustbowl, the song Roadkill. For me the way Steve just captured the room tone of the band was a sign of pure integrity. He didn't get in the way of the sound. It felt like he just knew where to focus the attention of the beats and groove without sterilizing the natural sounds. Nirvana went to him and have stated many times that they wanted to make a record that wasn't over produced and sounded more like the band captured live. The record label felt that they lost. The fans felt that they ultimately won out in the long run. Albini may have been shaken up in the short term post Utero, but ultimately came out with his integrity intact. Best case scenario given the situation both he and the band were thrown in.

  • @maza2010ful
    @maza2010ful 4 роки тому

    From a today’s perspective I don’t get what the problems with the mixes were. The redone mixes back then are less aggressive and the vocals more wet but the differences aren’t that big imho. The best mixes are the ones from 2013 with a better stereo image and more clearity at all.

  • @atwistoflemon666
    @atwistoflemon666 4 роки тому

    Daniel Sarkissian you should have so many more subscribers! Your content is amazing.

  • @thepmanvan111
    @thepmanvan111 4 роки тому +1

    I've been in the music biz for over 20 years. Never had good dealings with a label. Best projects I've done did not involve labels. Cheers.

  • @TheSlandis
    @TheSlandis 4 роки тому

    My daughter was fortunate enough to work with Steve at a workshop at Berklee College of Music. She holds him in high regard and I can see why.

  • @RustinChole
    @RustinChole 4 роки тому +4

    It’s always been my favorite nirvana album. Imagine if In Utero has been scrapped. Jesus.

  • @RS-pp7ng
    @RS-pp7ng 4 роки тому

    Cheers for doing this Daniel.

  • @tuffteddy1446
    @tuffteddy1446 10 місяців тому +1

    In Utero is a brilliant album.

  • @skyblinked
    @skyblinked 4 роки тому

    Great interview, thoughtout secondary questions too.

  • @christopher9152
    @christopher9152 4 роки тому

    Albini is a great producer and an intelligent, thoughtful guy. Always enjoy his interviews.

  • @theknowerandtheknown
    @theknowerandtheknown 4 роки тому +1

    The way that album ended up sounding is special and so on its own

  • @cashcoinmedia
    @cashcoinmedia 4 роки тому +3

    You did well steve...you did well!

  • @CRAIGANJOS
    @CRAIGANJOS 4 роки тому +1

    I would ask Steve - when you helped record Ruins - Graviyaunosch what did you do to the Bass ??? it is so low

  • @prunepurple
    @prunepurple 4 роки тому +2

    I don’t really understand why he says that after In Utero he started to be suspicious for bands and his clientele disappeared as he recorded so many bands after that. He was a super in demand producer at this point and producing Nirvana made just more publicity for him. Everybody wanted to be produced by Steve Albini and knew he was still accessible for small and underground bands and that they would never have to pay the same amount he asked for Major labels. He produced Sloy a french band in 1995 and i remember they said he was super approachable and that they didn’t pay a lot for the sessions. Just check how many bands he recorded in 94,95,96. Then he didn’t stop to work with major labels as he produced Bush in 1996

  • @rikmono
    @rikmono 4 роки тому +7

    The main lesson learned here is that label executives and A&R men dont know shit about music or what is going to be a hit or a miss. Makes me wonder how many classic albums would have been even better if the suits took a long walk off a short pier.

    • @vgmilo
      @vgmilo 4 роки тому +1

      You're totally right and i dont know why people dont get it. Being a rich music executive has ZERO correlation to having musical taste. All it correlates to is most likely being a greedy fuck

  • @carlosvg1480
    @carlosvg1480 4 роки тому

    This guy has been a role model since I was a teenager. I wish more people inside the music industry were in line with his thinking...

  • @mdrumt
    @mdrumt 4 роки тому

    In Utero sounds awesome, that roomy drum sound really puts you in the room with the band, the crunchy rawness of all the rest, band on awesome!

  • @dlwseattle
    @dlwseattle 4 роки тому +1

    This justifies Kurt's hated for being a part of the industry. This Albini guy seems OK. The song Jordan Minnesota played live by Big Black was a brutal delight - thanks Steve

  • @johnloughner6572
    @johnloughner6572 4 роки тому

    My friend Scott from zao worked with Steve for their album the fear is what keeps us here. I always envied him for getting that chance but proud at the same time.the album is amazing by the way. Especially the track it's hard not to shake with a gun in your mouth.

  • @PunkRockLifer
    @PunkRockLifer 2 роки тому

    I absolutely love In Utero and the recording

  • @johnnydeformed7123
    @johnnydeformed7123 4 роки тому

    Is it possible to get raw, straight up all Albini copy of In Utero?

  • @agr0vattt
    @agr0vattt 4 роки тому +1

    What a great and honest dude 🤟🤟

  • @ABoyd1852
    @ABoyd1852 4 роки тому

    His work with High on Fire for the Blessed Black Wings album is outstanding.

  • @ryanjameshardy8370
    @ryanjameshardy8370 4 роки тому

    I think sonically its the best record. Big rich sound, but i think the last mixer (i think Wallace?) did a better job on the mix.

  • @bongos91
    @bongos91 4 роки тому

    Great job here Daniel good interview!

  • @ChristopherJ655
    @ChristopherJ655 4 роки тому

    Steve i would love to have you work on my album how would I get in contact with you?

  • @smizdeazy
    @smizdeazy 4 роки тому +1

    How do you not have at least 20x the subs!??

  • @dontliethetruth
    @dontliethetruth 4 роки тому

    ok folks "leeching off personally" @13:50 that's an obvious diss directed at courtney. how come that EVERY single participant in & around the scene can't hold back on describing her as a malignant character?