David Wrench, the Welsh studio wizard behind some of pop’s biggest hits, almost gave up on his dream. In 2009, struggling to make ends meet as a recording engineer in North Wales, Wrench considered a lecturing job. His friend and collaborator, Julian Cope, gave him a reality check: “You’re unemployable in the real world. Find a way to make this work because you won’t last five minutes.” Wrench knew Cope was right.
Everything changed in 2010 when he mixed Caribou’s “Odessa,” which became a global anthem. Following this breakthrough, his career soared. He relocated to New York and began collaborating with artists like Jungle, FKA Twigs, and Glass Animals.
“ Sometimes, before mixing it, an album can sound very disjointed and separate because the tracks are made in different environments. The trick is finding its essence and making sure that runs through the entire work. I seem to specialize in working with artists who other people think are difficult. But I like artists with a strong vision. I find them easy to work with. It’s much harder when people just leave it all up to you.“
Wrench is now recognized as one of the most influential mixers in the industry, leaving his fingerprints on tracks by Jamie xx, Sampha, and many others. Renowned for his exceptional ear, Wrench transforms every artists’ visions into reality, whether by making FKA Twigs’ vocals radiate like a sunset or expertly balancing the intricate layers of a track.
Wrench’s journey took him from being an underappreciated engineer to a talented mixer, thanks to his attitude, discipline, and perseverance. His unique ability to bring out distinctive sounds has earned him high praise in the industry, as he constantly pushes the boundaries of creativity. With every project, he meticulously crafts the audio landscape, ensuring that each note resonates with emotion and depth.
His contributions to Welsh music through innovative mixing have established him as an alchemist in the industry, transforming raw recordings into captivating experiences. His collaborations showcase both versatility and a commitment to elevating production quality, making him a sought-after name among musicians and producers.
