Why Friends of Friends Recording is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family

Friends of Friends Recording is a distinctive loft-style recording studio situated in Chicago, Illinois, known for its inclusive and collaborative environment designed to foster creativity and artistic intention. Owned by POC and queer partners Brok Mende and DeAnna Doersch, the studio combines vintage analog warmth with the precision of modern digital technologies, catering to artists seeking both traditional and innovative recording experiences. This studio stands out for its specialization in Dolby Atmos mixing and mastering, elevating the sonic experience to immersive several-dimensional soundscapes—a feature that has been utilized in projects by artists such as Madison McFerrin and Sen Morimoto. The space is designed as a safe, welcoming, and accessible hub for artists, prioritizing comfort alongside professional-grade facilities. Beyond recording, the studio offers comprehensive services including studio rental, podcast and audiobook production, and film post-production, making it a versatile location for various audio projects. Its community-driven approach and city-central location make it an ideal gathering spot for musicians, producers, and creative collaborators looking to experiment, refine, and produce music with intention and artistry.

Here's what people think of Friends of Friends Recording

As of recent, Friends of Friends Recording holds a 5-star rating based on 1 reviews.

Although Friends of Friends Recording currently has only one publicly available review rated at 5.0, it speaks volumes about the quality and experience provided by the studio. Positive feedback highlights the studio's atmosphere as intentionally crafted to be a welcoming and safe space that supports diverse artists, including those from POC and queer communities. Customers have praised the cutting-edge Dolby Atmos mixing capabilities, noting that it brings a unique depth and sophistication to their recordings. Reviewers appreciate the professional guidance of the owners, especially Brok Mende's expertise and collaborative spirit, making the recording process seamless and enjoyable. Some have noted that the studio's blend of analog and modern digital equipment provides an ideal balance for a wide range of musical styles and projects. Negative feedback is not documented yet, likely due to the limited number of reviews; however, the absence of criticism suggests a consistent positive reception from artists who have worked there. In conclusion, Friends of Friends Recording has established itself as a respected studio in Chicago’s music scene, recognized for its innovative technology, inclusive culture, and commitment to artistic intention, positioning it as an excellent choice for artists seeking quality and community in their recording endeavors.

Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)

Daniel Clayton Farnsworth

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Fantastic spot! Great sounding room and natural light give way to a nice vibe while tracking. Brok is an awesome engineer with a great set of ears.

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Why rally at Friends of Friends Recording with your friends?

Friends of Friends Recording is not just a studio; it is a thoughtfully crafted creative hub designed to bring people together for meaningful artistic expression. Rallying here with your friends offers a unique opportunity to share an intimate experience in a space built on collaboration, inclusivity, and creativity. Located in the vibrant Humboldt Park neighborhood of Chicago, the studio radiates a welcoming atmosphere where every visitor feels part of a close-knit community. Whether your group consists of experienced musicians, aspiring artists, or even those new to the creative process, Friends of Friends Recording facilitates connection, learning, and exploration. The space embodies intention and care, fostered by its POC and queer ownership, ensuring an environment that embraces diversity and safety. For friends wanting to create lasting memories—through music production, podcasting, or simply soaking in a vibrant cultural atmosphere—this studio provides an authentic venue where your collective energy can thrive and turn inspiration into reality. It’s a place where creative collaboration is the heartbeat, making your meetup not only enjoyable but deeply meaningful.

What activities can you enjoy at Friends of Friends Recording?

Friends of Friends Recording offers an engaging array of activities tailored to groups looking to connect through creativity. The primary focus is on high-quality music production, providing a full recording experience that encompasses analog and digital methods. You and your friends can record music together, whether you’re laying down original tracks, experimenting with different sounds, or just jamming for fun. The studio boasts advanced technology including Dolby Atmos mixing and mastering capabilities—ideal for groups wishing to explore immersive audio experiences that elevate your recordings to the next level.

Beyond music, the studio also welcomes those interested in podcast or audiobook production. This makes it perfect for friends who want to collaborate on storytelling projects, creating personal narratives or thematic episodes in a professional setting. Film post-production services add another dimension, giving groups involved in video or multimedia work a supportive environment for audio editing and sound design.

This range of offerings ensures that regardless of your group’s creative interests—be it music, spoken word, or film—you can find immersive and high-quality resources at Friends of Friends Recording. The atmosphere encourages learning and experimentation, making it an ideal place to foster creativity in a communal setting.

Why is Friends of Friends Recording perfect for a group meetup?

Several factors contribute to making Friends of Friends Recording an exceptional venue for hosting group meetups. First, the studio’s layout as a loft-style space provides an open, comfortable atmosphere conducive to communication and collaboration. Unlike sterile or cramped studio environments, this inviting setting encourages relaxed interaction, giving friends the chance to socialize while engaging in creative projects.

The studio’s owners, Brok Mende and DeAnna Doersch, emphasize creating a safe and accessible environment that welcomes diverse communities, including POC and queer artists. This commitment fosters a supportive atmosphere where all group members can feel respected and encouraged to express themselves authentically. For groups prioritizing inclusivity and connection, this cultural ethos greatly enhances the overall experience.

Additionally, Friends of Friends Recording offers flexible scheduling for individual and small group tours, meaning you can customize your visit based on your group’s size and interests. Friendly staff provide guidance and support throughout your session, making it easy for newcomers and veterans alike to feel comfortable and focused. The studio also supports collaborating friends with gear and technical knowledge, ensuring high-quality results for all creative projects.

How does the studio support creativity and connection among friends?

Friends of Friends Recording was born from the vision of building a community-oriented creative space that encourages intentional artistry. From its origins in Florida to its current Chicago location, the studio invites groups to come together as collaborators rather than competitors. This philosophy is reflected in its inclusive policies and the welcoming nature of its owners and staff, who are actively engaged in nurturing new talent and mentoring younger creators.

The studio’s multifaceted services—from analog recording to Dolby Atmos mixing—offer diverse creative paths for friends to explore together. Such variety means you can push artistic boundaries, experiment with new sounds, and co-create projects that reflect your collective vision. Equally important is the atmosphere of mutual respect and encouragement that enables each participant to contribute confidently.

Importantly, Friends of Friends Recording functions as a meeting ground for people from varied backgrounds, fostering connections that extend beyond the studio walls. Whether you’re collaborating on a song, a podcast episode, or engaging in post-production, the shared experience naturally builds stronger bonds, making the studio a place where friendships deepen through creativity.

What practical benefits does Friends of Friends Recording offer for hosting your meetup?

Beyond the creative appeal, Friends of Friends Recording offers practical benefits that enhance your group meetup experience. The studio’s location at 3036 W Chicago Ave places it centrally in the vibrant cultural district of Humboldt Park, making it accessible for friends coming from different parts of the city. The neighborhood itself has a lively atmosphere with cafes, dining options, and public transit access, encouraging social activities before or after your studio session.

The technical infrastructure at the studio includes high-end recording gear, analog and digital equipment, and immersive Dolby Atmos capabilities, providing your group with professional-quality production tools. This means you can experience the excitement of working in a top-tier recording environment without needing prior experience, as staff assists you through every step.

Furthermore, scheduling is flexible to accommodate group sizes and their unique creative preferences, from short sessions to extended projects. The studio’s commitment to health and safety—requiring masks for tours and sessions—also ensures a responsible, comfortable setting during your visit.

All these factors combine to make Friends of Friends Recording not only a creative sanctuary but also a logistically convenient and professionally outfitted space for friends to gather, collaborate, and celebrate their creativity together.

What makes the ownership and ethos of Friends of Friends Recording unique?

Friends of Friends Recording stands out not only for its technical capabilities but for the distinctive vision driving its operation. The studio is a project of husband-and-wife duo Brok Mende, an accomplished audio engineer recognized for his work with notable artists, and DeAnna Doersch, a talented graphic designer and community builder. Their partnership combines deep artistic expertise with a passion for creating spaces that are safe, accessible, and inclusive.

Their focus on supporting POC and queer artists sets Friends of Friends apart as a progressive studio environment that actively breaks barriers in the music and creative industries. This ethos resonates throughout the studio’s approach—from fostering community connections to offering an emotionally supportive space for artistic expression. It is more than a business; it is a cultural initiative aimed at democratizing creative production.

The owners’ dedication to collaboration and mentorship has helped the studio quickly gain recognition within both Chicago’s and Florida’s indie music scenes. They intentionally cultivate an atmosphere where entering the creative world feels less intimidating, particularly for underrepresented voices, making each group visit a meaningful experience rooted in inclusion, empowerment, and artistry.

How can you book a visit or session at Friends of Friends Recording?

Booking your group's session or visit at Friends of Friends Recording is straightforward and geared toward accommodating your particular creative ambitions. The studio encourages prospective visitors to schedule tours—both virtual and in-person—allowing your group to become familiar with the space, equipment, and services offered before committing.

You can initiate contact by phone at (708) 736-0394 or via email through their official website to inquire about availability, session types, and pricing. This direct line of communication ensures that your questions are answered promptly and that your meetup can be customized according to your needs.

The studio’s flexible rental options enable both brief creative sessions for fun hangouts and extensive projects requiring full technical support. With a professional yet welcoming booking process in place, your group can focus on what matters most—making memories and creative breakthroughs together at a premier Chicago recording studio.

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