The Craft: Ep. 1 – How Ben Kidson Wrote Viral Hit 'Shiver'

We’re launching a new series entitled 'The Craft', exploring the creative and technical processes behind real records.

Each episode steps inside the studio with artists and producers, capturing how ideas evolve from early demos into finished releases. It’s about the decisions, the workflow, and the moments that shape a track along the way.

Episode 1: Ben Kidson and Tim “Cashybear”

The first episode follows artist Ben Kidson and producer Tim “Cashybear” as they work on Ben’s track Shiver, offering a detailed look at what it takes to turn a rough idea into a complete record.

Known for his emotionally driven alternative pop sound, Ben shares his journey from playing in indie and rock bands to developing his own identity as a solo artist. Alongside Tim, he navigates songwriting, production choices, and the balance between creative instinct and technical precision.

The session highlights how they approach recording and refining ideas, making decisions that preserve the original feeling of the song while keeping momentum moving forward. It’s a process that’s as much about intuition as it is about craft.

From Demo to Final Mix

As the track develops, the focus shifts toward shaping and finishing the mix. This is where subtle but important decisions come into play, helping the track translate and connect.

Tools like Oxford Inflator and Oxford Limiter are used in the final stages, supporting clarity, control, and overall energy. Rather than defining the sound, they help reinforce what’s already there, giving confidence to the final result.

A Closer Look at the Creative Process

This episode offers insight into more than just production techniques. It captures the realities of modern music making, from defining a creative identity to managing the pressures that come with it.

Whether you’re an artist, producer, or mix engineer, or simply interested in how music comes together behind the scenes, The Craft is about understanding the full journey of a record.

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We will have an exciting range of producers, engineers and artists offering their creative insights and production techniques (as well as a whole host of exclusive discounts).