Recording - 2 - tracks

Basically, all I'm going to cover here is overdubbing instruments and voices.

Let's assume you have a vocal and basic guitar track down already, and you want to add to it. Obviously, the physical process is the same for sound/level/mic position and track selection. But there are a few important things to consider.

1. What are you going to play?

Think about what would be appropriate to the song, and what you already have down - don't just try to double up the guitar (this can end up a terrible mess, and is frankly a waste of time). Find something you can play to enhance and work with your first tracks. Try using a capo, and transposing your chords, or using another instrument (mandolin, or maybe even using a slide technique on the guitar) - even just adding a harmonica or another vocal to lift the song and improve its dynamic can do wonders. Rehearse and experiment with a few ideas before you record.

2. Stay in tune!

Always make sure your instruments are in the correct tuning - you'd be surprised how often folks forget this!

3. Listen!

Overdubbing requires you to listen to what you've done, and play to complement what's there. Keep it simple. The better you get at playing and recording, the easier it will be to produce better work. Learn the technique which suits you best, and improve on it.