Oasis Studio Drama: Stuart Epps on Noel & Liam Gallagher
Legendary producer Stuart Epps recounts the unexpected studio visit of Oasis's Gallagher brothers.
Record producer Stuart Epps unveils the compelling story of when Oasis booked his Thames Valley studio. What began with Noel Gallagher's businesslike approach soon transformed with an unexpected visit from Liam, resulting in a surprisingly friendly session. Hear how the legendary brothers navigated their studio time.
In the mid-90s, Stuart Epps' Thames Valley studio was a magnet for musical giants, having hosted the likes of George Harrison, Led Zeppelin, Chris Rea, and Robbie Williams. An acclaimed record producer and engineer, Epps's reputation for crafting chart-topping hits was well-established. It was against this backdrop that he received a pivotal call – one that promised to add another legendary name to his roster: Oasis.
Noel Gallagher's Businesslike Arrival
The call, originating from Oasis's office, sent ripples of excitement through Epps's studio. It was Noel Gallagher who had booked the space, having heard about its quality through fellow musician Paul Weller. Noel arrived with an impressive arsenal of equipment, including "tons of every amp I've ever seen, every guitar." Epps noted Noel's very businesslike demeanour, contrasting with what some might expect from a rock star. They quickly delved into work on an album Noel was already developing, metaphorically described as being "on the shoulders of giants."
Liam's Unannounced Entrance
Just a couple of days into the sessions, an unexpected twist emerged. Noel abruptly announced that his brother Liam had discovered their location. Given the often-strained relationship between the Gallagher brothers, Noel's immediate thought was, "He's going to come down and trash the place!" He urged a quick departure. However, as the crew began packing up, Liam Gallagher made his grand entrance. To everyone's surprise, Liam was "totally brilliant." He immediately took a liking to the studio, famously remarking it looked like "Jimi Hendrix's bedroom." A quick connection formed between Liam and Stuart Epps, with Liam even playing him new songs. He proved to be incredibly friendly and a "great guy."
Studio Camaraderie and Pub Tales
Despite the initial tension, the recording sessions went remarkably well, largely thanks to Liam's unexpected friendliness. After work, Stuart Epps took the Oasis contingent to the local pub, Brick Makers, for a relaxed evening. This camaraderie solidified the positive experience, with Epps noting he's seen Liam since and found him to remain a very friendly individual. This surprising turn of events highlighted the unpredictable nature of the Gallagher brothers' dynamic.
Oasis's Enduring Legacy
Stuart Epps reflects on the eventual reunion and successful tours that saw the Gallagher brothers temporarily "become friends again," acknowledging its immense positive impact on the music business. In an era where fewer bands reach such monumental status, Oasis's enduring appeal and rock music prowess are celebrated. Epps sees their success as a vital boost for rock music and the wider industry, proving that iconic bands can still captivate massive audiences. The memorable studio encounter serves as a testament to the band's complex magic and its lasting contribution to music.