Insights: What our artists have to say

The Whole Damn Affair on stage with lights in the background.

The Whole Damn Affair

"This is the third project I've worked on with Derek at BarnSound and I'll never go anywhere else," says Jimmy Lepone, lead singer with The Whole Damn Affair. "Derek knows more about music and song structure than anybody I know, so his insights are incredibly valuable. Through production and recording you really become partners, and the results always amaze me. Plus, we have a blast!"

Brother Starling performs on stage with a drum set, acoustic and electric guitars, under spotlights, audience seated in front.

Brother Starling

Some members of Brother Starling had worked with Derek on an earlier project, so they jumped at the chance to have him produce their debut album “The Weight of Change.”

“I’ve been in the studio before, but this recording experience was different – it was special,” guitarist Mike Rusch told Americana Blues Scene. “Derek really pushed us to collectively capture the emotion, to go to that place and capture those feelings. From a musician’s perspective, it was an incredible learning experience for all of us.”

A band performing on stage with five musicians, various instruments, and colorful lighting.

Red Means Run

"On the new, full length album, "Things You Hold True" (2024), Ryan Wells expands beyond his alt-country roots and fully embraces the rock n' roll side of the band’s persona. With melodic hooks and poignant lyrics, the new songs explore enduring beliefs, relationships and the ties that bind us all. Produced by Derek Chafin (BarnSound and a|i|r records) and featuring an array of veterans of the Philly music scene, 'Things You Hold True' is a mix of old school heart and big, open chords. It draws a straight line from Johnny Cash to Tom Petty to The Replacements to Son Volt and beyond." - 215 Music

The Gretchen Emery Band standing outdoors in front of a flatbed truck, with trees and a clear sky in the background.

Gretchen Emery Band

"We've worked with Derek on three albums now," says Gretchen Emery, the driving force behind The Gretchen Emery Band. "I honestly feel like he's a member of the band – that's how important his contributions are to our sound. When we had the chance to record at Fame Recording Studios in Muscle Shoals, Alabama, Derek came along. There's no one else we'd trust to produce and record us."

Live musical performance on stage with multiple musicians playing guitars, drums, and keyboard, colorful confetti falling from above, and audience in silhouette in front. Stage is lit with blue lights.

Chestnut Grove

"We love Derek Chafin!" says Dee Gerhart, Chestnut Grove's singer/guitarist/singer. "We owe him so much for his patience, helping make our music sound incredible, and for being the most genuine human being. Honestly, he's helped us every step of the way."

A band performs live on stage with purple lighting, featuring four members playing guitars and drums.

Athensville

"This record has guts and color, soul and passion, and the whole thing feels alive and breathing. Guitars swimming in watery effects, deep grooves, and a gusto that gives off a youthful energy and a mature songwriting style. The album provides so many hooks and heavy handed choruses it’s almost too much to keep up with." – The Sounds Won’t Stop