In 1997 we ran a great interview with Trent Bell of Bell Labs in Norman, Oklahoma. He's been running that studio for years now, and mostly is working on "regional" acts when we catch up on one of our annual chats. The Starlight Mints trio is another story, as they have made a name for themselves over the last few years with their quirky pop and have been on some larger record labels. Trent recorded, co-produced and mixed this new CD, at Bell Labs, with no less than eight guest musicians. It reminds me of Pavement crossed with the Kinks - fun horn and strings arrangements over strong tunes. (www.starlightmints.com)

Tape Op is a bi-monthly magazine devoted to the art of record making.

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