Phantogram - "Mister Impossible"

In the second mixing episode, Andrew Dawson takes “Mister Impossible” to its final form, diving deep into the vocals, effects, and finishing moves that give the record its emotional weight and radio-ready polish.

He starts by sculpting unique vocal spaces for Josh Carter and Sarah Barthel, blending analog warmth with modern edge. Learn how he uses reverse reverbs, slap delays, and subtle distortion to create dimension and intimacy, and how compression choices make each vocal feel close, present, and alive.

From there, Andrew opens his master bus chain, explaining how to control loudness while preserving movement. He demonstrates how to use multiband compression, harmonic exciters, and limiting to make a mix hit hard without losing musicality, showing how loud, dynamic, and emotional can coexist.

You’ll learn:

How to create contrasting vocal treatments using tone separation and ambience.

Why automation and grouping are key to balancing energy across a dense mix.

When to use reverb and delay creatively to fill space or enhance rhythm.

How to build master bus dynamics with compressors, exciters, and limiters that enhance cohesion and impact.

The art of finishing a track so it feels powerful, exciting, and intentional.

Andrew’s approach is both technical and instinctive, blending years of experience with bold decision-making to craft a mix that slaps, sparkles, and tells a story.