One of Britain’s greatest musicians has passed away a few weeks ago (8 July 2021). Philip Bagenal was the founder and the spirit behind the legendary East Cote Studio. He grew generations of world-class engineers and music producers and always supported young talents.

Philip always found the time to educate us about new technologies and vintage equipment but he was also a father figure and a mentor to many of us. He always peppered his approach to music with a humanist insight and some deep sense of wit.

I have been thinking a lot about Philip during the Corona Lockdown, I was worried about him as he suffered from Parkinson for a while. Philip contacted me 2 months ago and I was relieved to see that he was OK. Last month I paid Philip a visit. He was in a good shape, he took Tali and myself for a walk in his little forest. He was inspiring all along. Before we left, Philip shared with me his latest insights. “When you mix,” he said, “remember to balance the heavy sounds with the light ones.” We musicians often think in technical terms, high , low, EQ etc. For Philip, music was deeper than technicality. He always searched for that which makes music distinctive and memorable. Philip then told me, “all we do really is trying to translate that which moves metal (microphones) to that which moves air (speakers)."

Philip it was so great to spend two decades of my life with you in your studio...

Rest in Peace our precious brother