Patrick Hyland, a guitarist and multi-instrumentalist, has been a key figure in Mitski's rise to fame, engineering, producing, and performing on her records. Their collaboration began in 2012 when Mitski, then a gifted songwriter, needed an engineer for her recording sessions. Hyland, with his interest in jazz, noise, and 12-tone music, became her go-to collaborator. This partnership has since produced Mitski's acclaimed albums, with Hyland's home studio serving as the backdrop for her latest release, 'Nothing's About to Happen to Me'.
Hyland's approach to music is unique, prioritizing self-expression over technical prowess. He draws inspiration from the likes of the Pixies, Charles Mingus, and the Velvet Underground, embracing a free and expressive style of guitar playing. This perspective is evident in his live setup, where he balances a mix of vintage and modern gear, including a Big Muff fuzz pedal and a custom-built Black Tape Amplifiers Keifton. Despite his extensive collection of guitars, amps, and pedals, Hyland maintains a healthy tone obsession, often returning to his trusted staples.
In the studio, Hyland's role as a producer involves a delicate balance between artistic vision and ego death. He describes the process as a journey of discovery, where he collaborates with Mitski to present her compositions in a way that feels 'truthful and impactful'. This approach is a testament to his dedication to the art, as he strives to create albums that feel spacious, physical, and carefully crafted. As Mitski continues to evolve as an artist, Hyland remains a constant presence, shaping her sound and contributing to her unique musical identity.
