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What is it about?

This article explores the importance of preserving audio recordings in the metal music industry. It examines how producers and record labels handle master tapes and multi-track recordings, which are essential for remastering or remixing classic albums. The study highlights the challenges of preserving these materials, including physical deterioration, digital obsolescence, and inconsistent archiving practices. Through interviews with German metal music producers, the research reveals how economic, legal, and artistic factors influence the preservation of metal’s audio heritage. By addressing these challenges, the article emphasises the value of preserving music for future generations of fans and artists.

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Why is it important?

This article addresses a pressing issue in the digital age: the preservation of audio heritage in the metal music industry. It uniquely combines insights from German producers with a technical production perspective, shedding light on the inconsistent archiving practices that threaten the preservation of master tapes and multi-track recordings. As the industry moves increasingly towards digital production and self-releasing artists, the study highlights the risk of losing significant cultural artefacts. By emphasising the economic, artistic, and historical value of proper preservation, this research raises awareness of the need for industry-wide standards, ensuring that metal music’s legacy can be remastered and reimagined for future audiences.

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This page is a summary of: Keeper of the Seven Keys: Audio heritage in metal music production, Metal Music Studies, March 2022, Intellect,
DOI: 10.1386/mms_00063_1.
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