Following pre-production, the next stage in an album's production will be the actual recording process, which involves tracking each instrument. From this point on, every decision will affect the final outcome of the project, and that's why bands hire producers to oversee the process and make sure everything is done correctly.

I'll be recording an album with White Wizzard and wanted to give you some insight into the process of making a heavy metal album in 2013. I'm going to talk about the whole process, from pre-production to mastering, and try to give you my take on each step. The first stage is pre-production, which is when a band will take their song ideas and begin to finalize the arrangements, melodies, lyrics, etc., so that every song is fully prepared and ready to record.

Having done many recording sessions, I've developed a routine to make sure I'm always fully prepared for the studio. By being properly prepared, you will ensure that your sessions will be an enjoyable experience and that you will impress producers and fellow musicians by being proficient and professional. Here's my checklist of studio session essentials that will help you, especially if you're new to recording.

I woke up this morning to some very good news. John Sykes just updated his official Facebook page. It looks like he's working on a new album that will hopefully be released soon. For those of you who know Sykes, you already know he is a phenomenal guitar player, singer and songwriter. For those who don't, here's a quick history lesson.