Interview with Kyle Bazinet
Audio Engineer and Technician
Meet Kyle Bazinet (AKA Baz) an audio engineer and technician who’s been touring professionally since 2008. He’s toured with a lot of different bands like The Roy Orbison Hologram Tour and Peter Frampton. He’s also worked popular festivals including Coachella, Stage Coach, Warped Tour and more! We had a chance to talk with him and how he has found creative ways to make money during the pandemic without being able to tour.
What got you started in the industry?
A Front of House Audio Engineer at Ozzfest 2003 noticed my friend and I. He invited us into FOH and I was truly blown away by the console. After I watched him work on the mix during the whole set, I saw how fun, challenging and technical a career in live sound could be, and the rest is history.
What are some of your favorite tours or gigs you’ve worked on?
I’ve been blessed to work on a lot of tours for many different audio companies and bands. I would have to say one of my favorite tours I have been a part of is the Warped Tour. Each day brought new challenges and a sense of brotherhood with my fellow coworkers. A few of my other favorites that have made me grow as a professional audio tech and engineer have been Peter Frampton, Coachella, Stage Coach, Godsmack, Mayhem Festival, Uproar Festival, Ballyhoo!, Flobots, and Steve Miller.
How has the pandemic impacted you?
It has changed pretty much everything. I have been touring professionally since 2008 and it has been my livelihood since COVID-19. I was touring on the Whitney Houston Hologram tour early this year and March 13th I had to fly back from Amsterdam because the tour got cancelled. After that I was lucky enough to team up with a local production company and try to find new ways to bring in clients and creative solutions to put on events in Pacific North West area during the early stages of the pandemic. I found myself in hard place, but the best thing that came out of it was I was able to bring together different groups of people from different production companies in the area.
Have you been able to find work in the audio industry or are you working in another field temporarily?
I’ve been able to keep myself pretty busy working in a warehouse and I started my own handy man service where basically I do everything from basic house upkeep and landscaping to electrical work. I am also looking into becoming a fire-fighter or electrician for IBEW if things don’t change in next 6 months.
What kind of hobbies have kept you busy during?
I’ve been touring since 2008 so I’ve never really had much time to try new hobbies. One hobby I’ve always wanted to try is mountain biking and during the pandemic I finally had a chance too. I have also taken a few first aid classes by red cross, and had time for more outdoor activities like hiking and fishing.
What are some of your favorite gear or must haves when you tour?
The XLR Sniffer/Sender, a pair of headphones, a multi meter, the Mic Switcher, a QBox and a great attitude!
What's the best tip you've received or best tip you would give another Sound Human?
You don't need to know everything to succeed, you only need the will power, hunger and motivation to understand that it will take time to develop your skills. And if you're willing to listen, the gigs will come.
Just wanted to also say, I miss all my road family and even the lighting guys and girls. Stay safe everyone and keep positive! -Baz
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