Who are you and what do you do?

I'm a singer/songwriter, electronic music producer, and blogger. I've been creating music since 1989. I am also the Director of Operations at ENVEN Energy Services.

I have a new album coming out on May 13, 2011 titled "Joyless Pleasure".

What hardware are you using?

API Lunchbox, 512c Mic Pre, 527 Compressor, Shure SM7B, KSM32 Microphones, TC Electronic Powercore, Apple Computers and iOS devices. Synths: Yamaha CS-5, ElectroComp 101, Roland SH-3a, Voice of Saturn. Drum Machines: Vermona DRM1 MKIII, Korg KR55, Boss DR-110, Jomox Mbase. Effects: Ekdahl Moisturizer spring reverb, Boss DM-100 delay.

What software are you using?

Ableton Live, PowerCore Plug-ins, Reason, iOS Apps

I actually don't think the gear is too important. Having something to say; inspiration is where it's at. After inspiration, the arrangement is the next most important thing. Sound wise I love real analog vintage synths and drum machines. Having a nice mic pre brings your vocals to the front. Make yourself a studio that's fun to use. It's important to be able to get your song down very fast without technology getting in the way.

What would be your dream setup?

There's an iPhone app called LaDiDa which auto creates music behind anything you sing into it. I wish there was a pro version which had MIDI export.

Any production tips & tricks or advice you'd like to share?

This question is easy… go out an live! Lead an interesting brave life. Take chances. If you do that your music will be inspired. If you struggle making music you are trying too hard. Kiss a stranger and come home and write a song. I guarantee it will be a good track!

Where can we find you on the web?

Oliver Chesler / SoundCloud / Facebook / Twitter / Flickr /