ABSTRACT
A principal objective of this ethnography was to access a real world recording setting in Jamaica where the process of data collection had minimal impact on the actions of participants. This chapter tries to capture a sense of how spontaneity is induced into, and influences, the recording process, becoming a catalyst for exploration and creativity. The recording sessions were therefore commissioned by someone who might be considered part of a small group of Jamaican entertainers, positioned at the pinnacle of their profession, enjoying international success and recognition with representation through international music publishers, distributors and record companies. The chapter demonstrates that, despite changes in technology, the audio engineer and musician continue to provide critical elements in a spontaneous recording process built on feel, groove. The recording methodology used to record the acoustic guitar on these sessions is not untypical of amateur or home-recording studios.
