Arts & Culture
The Ocelot chats with Earthworm Recording Studio -

Tucked away on an industrial estate in Swindon, amongst the bustling sounds of vehicle repair shops and lorries operating around warehouse units, sits an obscurely placed creative hub - Earthworm Recording Studio.

The production studio itself has been around for 10 years - set up by owner and resident producer Jon Buckett - and works with independent, local, and international artists.

It’s a strange contrast because the only recording studios I have ever been in are Maida Vale and now Earthworm - one and the same, just on very different scales. Granted not many studios can compare to the grandeur that is Maida Vale, but Earthworm holds its own by inhabiting something very attainable - it could be that Jon and Earthworm’s freelance producer/engineer, Evan Costello, have a really relaxed demeanour (made evident as we talked all things music over a cup of tea), a palpable depth of knowledge within their fields, and share the same ideals. [caption id=“attachment_39268” align=“aligncenter” width=“710”] Jon Buckett and Evan Costello - photo by Jennifer Berry[/caption] “More than anything we’re here to provide support,” explained Jon, “because good records can’t be made under duress - a studio should feel like a home away from home.” Evan added: “The world of music needs to feel connected - make it feel like it’s right - which is important for a studio. To be creative you need to feel comfortable.” Despite the laid-back atmosphere, Earthworm as a day-to-day business is next level. Jon said: “We wanted to build a studio without limitations to sound quality - we spent 18 months doing it up. Everything is tailored for perfect sound - everything has a purpose.” And as it turns out, so does its name. “Earthworms spend a lot of time underground,” Jon continued, “out of sight trying to make things grow - that’s the job. We’re not here to be out front.” [caption id=“attachment_39267” align=“aligncenter” width=“710”] Earthworm Recording Studios - photo by Jennifer Berry[/caption] It’s easy to see how musicians are made to feel comfortable at Earthworm - sat inside there’s a pleasant feeling of isolation, completely unaware of the outside world’s activities. A perfect place to burrow and focus. But despite its industrial-based location, the studio isn’t completely underground. As Evan explained the studio is situated very close to the A420 and just five minutes from the M4, which has enabled them to engage and network with bands travelling through. When working with musicians Earthworm believes it’s important to have a two-way dialogue, as well as making sure the working dynamic is compatible. Jon said: “Musicians need to be able to make an educated decision on whether or not it’s the right fit and not be afraid to ask questions, like asking a studio to show them a show reel of their work. “[Laughs] We don’t expect people to pay a bill just to walk through the door! We encourage people to get in touch, come say hi, have a chat, and have a cup of tea.” To get in touch visit: www.earstudio.co.uk

  • The Ocelot chats with Earthworm Recording Studio -
  • The Ocelot chats with Earthworm Recording Studio -
  • The Ocelot chats with Earthworm Recording Studio -
  • The Ocelot chats with Earthworm Recording Studio -
  • The Ocelot chats with Earthworm Recording Studio -