Epica "T.I.M.E."
Joost van den Broek
Joost van den Broek
Joost van den Broek is a Dutch producer, mixer, and composer known for his powerful, cinematic approach to heavy music. With a career spanning over two decades, Joost has built a reputation as one of Europe’s top metal producers, working with a wide array of internationally acclaimed bands across genres like symphonic metal, progressive metal, and hard rock.
Originally trained as a classical and jazz pianist at the Conservatorium van Amsterdam, Joost’s deep musical foundation has shaped his unique production style. Before moving behind the glass, he performed extensively as a keyboardist, most notably with the progressive metal band After Forever and touring projects for Ayreon. This performance experience gives him a rare insight into both the creative and technical aspects of music, allowing him to connect with artists on a deeper level during the production process.
Joost’s production resume reads like a who’s who of the European metal scene. He has produced and mixed albums for Epica, Powerwolf, Ayreon, Blind Guardian, VUUR, Navarone, Blackbriar, and many others. His work with Epica in particular has garnered international recognition, with albums like “Omega” and “The Holographic Principle” showing off his ability to blend massive orchestral arrangements with modern metal aggression.
A hallmark of Joost’s production style is his attention to emotion and storytelling within songs. Rather than simply focusing on sonic impact, he works closely with artists to uncover the message and intention behind each song, then brings that narrative to life through dynamic arrangements, detailed performances, and cinematic mixes. His command over both analog and digital gear, as well as his fluency in orchestration, allows him to bridge the gap between classical and heavy genres in a seamless and impactful way.
Joost is also a sought-after mix engineer. His mixes are known for their depth, clarity, and sheer size, with an organic quality that retains the human feel of each performance while still delivering crushing power. Whether he’s mixing a full-blown symphonic metal epic or a stripped-down rock album, Joost brings a musical mindset and meticulous ear to every project he touches.
Beyond the studio, Joost is deeply passionate about mentoring the next generation of producers and musicians. He frequently leads masterclasses, workshops, and clinics around the world, where he shares not only his technical knowledge but also his philosophies on creativity, collaboration, and artistic growth.
Joost runs his own studio, Sandlane Recording Facilities, located in the Netherlands. The studio is equipped with a blend of top-tier analog gear and cutting-edge digital tools, and has become a go-to destination for bands looking for a high-end production experience with a personal and collaborative touch.
At Nail The Mix, Joost brings his signature approach to music production to a global audience. Participants get an inside look at his workflow, decision-making process, and mixing techniques as he deconstructs full sessions of his work. With a deep musicality, a hands-on approach, and a true commitment to the art, Joost van den Broek continues to raise the bar for what modern metal production can be.