Advision Studios was a prominent independent recording studio located in London, England, active from the early 1960s to the mid-1980s. Renowned for its cutting-edge technology and skilled engineering team, it played a significant role in the production of numerous iconic albums across various genres, as well as film scores, television jingles, and advertising spots.
History and Technology
Advision Studios was founded in 1960 by engineers Tony and Geoff Barton, initially focusing on film dubbing and sound for commercials. As the demand for music recording grew, the studio expanded its facilities and quickly established itself as a leading professional recording environment.A key factor in Advision's success was its early adoption of advanced recording technologies. It was one of the first studios in the UK to invest in multi-track recording equipment, moving from 4-track to 8-track and later 16-track systems, which allowed for greater flexibility and complexity in music production. This technological edge attracted many forward-thinking artists and producers looking to experiment with new sounds and arrangements. The studio was particularly known for its excellent acoustics and a strong emphasis on sound quality.
Notable Recordings and Artists
Advision Studios hosted a diverse array of celebrated artists and bands throughout its operational period. Some of the notable works recorded or mixed at Advision include:- Progressive Rock: It became a hub for many progressive rock bands, with groups like Emerson, Lake & Palmer (recording albums such as Tarkus and Brain Salad Surgery), Yes (Fragile, Close to the Edge), Gentle Giant, and King Crimson frequently using its facilities.
- Pop and Rock: Artists such as The Who, The Kinks, David Bowie, The Moody Blues, and Black Sabbath also utilized Advision for various projects.
- Film Scores and Other Work: Beyond popular music, Advision was a busy facility for film soundtrack work, often recording orchestral scores, and was also a major player in the production of advertising jingles and sound design for television.
Decline and Legacy
By the mid-1980s, the recording studio landscape in London had become highly competitive, and Advision, like many independent studios of its era, faced increasing challenges. The original Advision Studios ceased operations in 1984.Despite its closure, Advision Studios holds a significant place in British music history, remembered as a pioneering studio that facilitated some of the most innovative and enduring recordings of the 1960s, 1970s, and early 1980s. Its legacy is preserved in the extensive discographies of the many artists who passed through its doors.