Welcome to issue #103 of Tape Op.

I arrived at the profession of being an engineer and producer via being a fan.Experiences as a listener and music lover sent me on this path, and certain bits of music pushed me forward. The tangible feeling I got the first time I heard the masterful production of Joy Division's song "Atmosphere" rumbling through a giant stereo system at a friend's house sent me on a quest to absorb more of their music, as well as a desire to learn how they were made. See our excerpts from Chris Hewitt's book on Martin Hannett in this issue for insight into these iconic Joy Division recordings, and more. A music fan also has opinions, and while I've become more relaxed in some of my stances, I still abhor the Eagles. But I do love Joe Walsh and The Who, so check out our interview with Bill Szymczyk in these pages! And what fan doesn't love The Beatles? Check out the interview here with Giles Martin, and see how he struggled with his father's legacy, Sir George Martin, while proceeding to make a name for himself. There's far more in this issue (did I mention I'm a big Tanya Donelly fan?), so dig in and enjoy the mag! But first put on some music you love... — Larry Crane,Editor

---