200-year-old barn becomes Lancaster music studio

King Sound Studio, based near Halton, features modern digital tools and a live room, and records bands, singers, songwriters and voiceover artists.

The brainchild of friends Mark Gray, Chris Brookbanks and John Kirby, the studio is in a converted 200-year-old barn, part of a farm with stunning views across Morecambe Bay to the Lake District.

Mark, whose great grandfather Robert was a professional musician who played for King Edward VII on a Royal visit, said: “We’ve spent around two years refurbishing the studio, assembling excellent equipment that meets the needs of consummate professionals and striving musicians alike.

“It’s a great place to sing, record, experiment and write, and is ideal for voiceover work for videos and company films or jingles. When people come to us we set up the studio according to each client’s needs. This is not just a digital recording facility but also a hugely inspiring place.

Chris, a musician, producer and engineer, has worked with artists such as Midge Ure, The Christians, and Adrian Edmondson’s band The Bad Shepherds.

He is currently in charge of Lancaster community radio station Beyond Radio’s broadcast and IT technology as well as being host DJ.

Drummer and music teacher John was until recently a member of Genesis tribute band Genesish.

Lancaster singer Imogen Rae, runner-up in the National Young Songwriter of the Year, has recorded there and Beyond Radio has also broadcast from the studio.