Patmax is a talented 24-year-old music producer and mix engineer hailing from Lagos. With a passion for crafting captivating sounds, Patmax brings a unique blend of creativity and technical expertise to his productions; consistently delivering memorable tracks that resonate with audiences worldwide. West down with Pitman to learn more about his dedication to the craft and how the vibrant music scene in Lagos has established him as a rising star in the industry.

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Answer this question for me: Where does your story begin?

My story begins in Lagos, Nigeria, where I was born to Igbo parents. Growing up in a vibrant and culturally diverse city like Lagos, I've been exposed to a rich tapestry of music, art, and traditions, which undoubtedly influenced my artistic journey as a music producer and mix engineer. The fusion of my Igbo heritage and the cosmopolitan atmosphere of Lagos provided fertile ground for my creative development and shaped my unique musical perspective.

There are things that some audio engineers struggle with when it comes to a mix. One area is the bass. How do you get the bass to sound good in a mix?

Achieving a balanced and impactful bass in a mix can be a challenge, but here are a few techniques to... Use EQ to carve out space for the bass in the mix. Address any conflicting frequencies with other instruments by attenuating or boosting specific frequency ranges. Focus on the low end. Apply compression to control the dynamics of the bass and ensure a consistent level throughout the mix. Use a moderate ratio and attack/release settings to maintain the natural feel and transients.

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“A well-mixed vocal that captures the essence and intention of the artist can deeply resonate with listeners.”

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How do you know when a mix is done; is there a point that you say “I’m satisfied. I’m done with this mix.”

If you can clearly hear each part and nothing feels overwhelming or buried, you're heading in the right direction. Pay attention to the overall musicality and coherence of the mix. If the mix enhances the emotional impact and intention of the music, it's a positive sign. Check for any technical issues such as unwanted noise, pops, clicks, or clipping. Ensure that the mix translates well across different playback systems, including headphones, speakers, and car stereos. If the technical aspects are in good shape, it indicates progress towards a finished mix.
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I know that overall balance is the key to a good mix, but if you had to pick the most important part of a mix, what would it be and why?

While achieving an overall balance is indeed crucial in a mix, if I had to pick the most important part, it would be the vocals. Vocals often carry the lyrics and melody, making them the primary vehicle for conveying the emotions and message of the song. A well-mixed vocal that captures the essence and intention of the artist can deeply resonate with listeners and create a strong emotional connection.

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Let’s end with something a little fun. If you could be a piece of fruit, which one would you be and why?

If I could be a piece of fruit, I would choose to be a mango. Mangoes are known for their vibrant and inviting colors, sweet and juicy flavor, and tropical associations. They symbolize warmth, happiness, and a refreshing taste of summer. Being a mango would allow me to bring a touch of tropical delight to people's lives and evoke feelings of joy and indulgence.