Best Local Studio

The work of producer and engineer Ben Price underpins some of Atlanta’s most fearless musical talent. At his home studio dubbed STUDILAROCHE, Price uses his technical and creative prowess to enhance compositions from Little Tybee’s intricate psych-folk to Faun and a Pan Flute’s dizzying brand of modern classical. Price’s production creates a thread of continuity between Atlanta bands, forming a distinct sense of musical community. Before Studilaroche, Price worked with legendary producer Ricky Keller, where he gained early experience working with storied names such as Scarface and Ciara. His ability to frame lavish textures is easily recognizable on some of this year’s most exciting albums, most notably Book of Colors’ eponymous debut and Hello Ocho’s freewheeling sophomore LP, In Portuguese. Those lucky enough to enter Studilaroche’s doors not only get exposure to Price’s extensive recording expertise, but an opportunity to join a local legacy. 404-840-2365. www.studilaroche.com. less...

THE LIVING ROOM sits in a 104-year-old house on the Westside, where owners/engineers Ed Rawls and Justin McNeight foster a relaxed vibe that’s lost in most higher-end studios. There aren’t a bunch of hanger-on types looking to party or distract artists from keeping their head in the recording process. Instead, there’s an arsenal of vintage gear, and the staff specializes in analog sound. Rawls and McNeight have also been playing in bands and running live sound at clubs around town since the ’90s, and their experience shows. In the past year, they made Zoroaster sound heavier, the Black Lips dirtier, and Noot d’ Noot even funkier. The track record speaks for itself. 889 Bowen St. 404-808-1781. &emdash;www.myspace.com/livingroomstudio. less...