MixWithTheMasters Stuart White mixing 'Figure 8' by FKW twigs

Grammy-winning mix engineer Stuart White revisits his work on 'Figure 8' by FKA twigs, exploring how to process unconventional sounds, take creative risks, and experiment with phase, distortion, and special effects.

Stuart begins with his approach to bus processing, using techniques inspired by Tchad Blake to build density, tone, and energy across the mix. He demonstrates how to balance dense arrangements, and uses phase alignment and frequency-focused compression to alter transients and tonal balance in bold new ways.

The series also explores his world-renowned approach to mixing vocals, as he breaks down how to maximize presence, dynamics, dimension, and emotion. Each creative choice is driven by his core philosophies: move quickly, trust your instincts, and forget about the rulebook.