Al Schmitt

In every profession there is someone who changes the rules of the game. In music, that person is Bruce Swedien. In the early eighties in Los Angeles, Bruce embarked on a project that revolutionized the music industry forever. For the first time, those involved in that project tell the unknown story behind the work that Bruce did and how his talent ended up being an essential piece in the history of popular culture. Sonic Fantasy introduces you to the man behind the best music you've ever heard.

The Art of Recording a Big Band was filmed at the famed Capitol Studios in Hollywood, California USA over two days during a recording session by Al Schmitt featuring Chris Walden's Grammy-nominated 18-piece jazz big band. The film focuses on the legendary Al Schmitt, the most celebrated music engineer, producer and mixer of all time winning 22 GRAMMY Awards. The educational and inspirational documentary includes interviews with Al's longtime partner Steve Genewick as well as Chris Walden, Dave Pensado, Ryan Hewitt, Kenny Wild, Paula Salvatore and a cameo appearance by engineer and mixer Andrew Scheps. Longtime friend and collaborator, Quincy jones provides a poignant open statement about the importance of "the person who captures the sound".