Joel Wanasek mixes "The Succession Of Flesh" by Cognizance

Behind the console is Joel Wanasek of JTW Recording, known for his work with Machine Head, Blessthefall, and Monuments, and one of the co-founders of Drumforge and URM Academy. Joel approaches this mix with meticulous detail in transient control and balance—pushing loudness while maintaining separation and air across an extremely dense mix field. His use of stereo imaging and automation to bring contrast and dimensionality to a wall of sound workflow makes this session invaluable.

Multitrack complexity here is no joke. Expect punishingly tight double kicks, tapped-out arpeggios, layered rhythm guitars with rapid modulation changes, multiple vocal styles (growled and screamed), and blast beats that have to be shaped just enough to hit hard without crowding high frequencies. You’ll learn how transient shaping, surgical EQ curves, mid-side EQ treatment, and automation combine to create clarity without compromising aggression.

Download the multitracks and put your mix chops to the test. This session will challenge you to mix faster BPMs, tighter edits, and more notes per phrase than most metal tracks out there—and come out sounding polished, brutal, and full.