Matt Thomas is a highly respected producer, mixer, and engineer, stage and studio, known for his powerful, modern approach to drum-driven music. As the sonic artist behind the polished and aggressive sound of creators like Saliva, Face Yourself, Nerv, Kingdom Of Giants, Darko, Left To Suffer, Caliber TV, Nik Nocturnal, and Jared Dines, Matt has established himself as a go-to figure for bands seeking clarity, punch, and emotional impact in their recordings.

Based in Sacramento, California (home to Deftones, Papa Roach, and Tesla), Matt is the founder and head producer at AshTone Audio, where his creative vision and technical expertise have helped groom some of the most distinctive sounds in heavy music today. His mixing style is characterized by tight, hard-hitting drums, layered guitar tones, and a strong sense of dynamic movement that allows each instrument to breathe while still contributing to an overall powerful wall of sound. With a deep understanding of arrangement and songwriting, Matt goes beyond simply capturing performances. He brings out the essence of the artist’s message, helping shape records that connect on a visceral level.

Matt got his start playing and performing in bands during the early 2000s, which gave him firsthand insight into the traditional workflow, challenges, and artistic drive behind life in the studio and on the stage. This background has made him a particularly empathetic producer and collaborator to newer and/or younger artists still discovering the landscape for the first time—someone who not only understands the technical side of recording but also appreciates the emotional and creative weight that artists carry into the studio. As a result, many of the bands he works with consider him an essential part of their sound and creative process.

Throughout his career, Matt has worked across a spectrum of heavy genres, ranging from the atmospheric and cinematic to the downright chaotic. His versatile skill set allows him to adapt to the specific vision of each artist, whether that means refining intricate arrangements or dialing in bone-crushing tones. In addition to his production work, Matt is also a trusted mix engineer for other producers, often brought in to put the final polish on records with his signature blend of clarity and aggression.

Matt’s approach is rooted in both analog sensibilities and modern digital workflows. This balance allows him to create mixes that feel alive and warm while still delivering the precision and scale required by today’s music platforms. His studio is filled with a carefully curated collection of gear chosen specifically to serve the emotional core of the music rather than just for show.

As an educator and mentor, Matt is passionate about sharing what he’s learned with the next generation of producers and mixers. He is a firm believer that great records come from a mix of technical knowledge, artistic instinct, and emotional honesty. For Nail The Mix, Matt offers an inside look at how he crafts the sounds behind some of the heaviest and most emotionally resonant records in modern metal and hardcore. His sessions give aspiring mixers a rare glimpse into how to translate creative vision into a polished and powerful final product.