Grand Central’s New Era: James Cobbold Joins as Senior Sound Designer
As an audio explorer, James Cobbold’s adventures have seen him thrashing through the Jungle, ascending at the speed of sound at 750mph and more recently deeply immersed in the sonic depths of a Machine in Fitzrovia. But right now for James, on the cusp of a new era at the renowned company, all roads point to Grand Central.
Fresh on the back of a birthday bonanza of balearic beats in Ibiza, Grand Central caught up with James about his next audio quest!
Q> So James…. we’re desperate to know, do sound designers wear ear defenders in Ibiza?
James> Absolutely! I’m rarely without my earplugs.
Q> How much is a beer in DC10?
James> More than double the price in London, which is already outrageous! Though it was my birthday so I didn’t have to buy many…
Q> How do the sound systems compare?
James> The bespoke systems in DC10 meant the techno sounded awesome! The amazing setups at Grand Central means everything sounds fantastic, I can't wait to start mixing in the superb rooms.
Q> What are you most looking forward to about the move to GC?
James> It’s an amazing opportunity to work with a new team. Grand Central has always had a reputation for top-notch work and I’m very excited to be joining.
Q> What’s most exciting about the changes happening at Grand Central?
James> New owners, great new production team, legendary tech support, creative freedom, roof terrace, and ridiculous studios!
Q> You’re a bit of a thrill seeker, and into your formula one, in your career, have you ever had any moments when you’ve felt like you needed to make a sharp exit?
James> I’ve never needed to make a sharp exit! However I’ve been in a couple of sessions where (through no fault of mine) the VO has walked out…
Q> What are your favourite films you’ve worked on?
James> Standouts have been Call of Duty, where the vehicle interior had to sound ‘womb-like’ and intimate before the doors open up to total combat carnage, and Sky Sports F1, where I was able to engage my passion for motorsport. It’s just a shame that particular season was cancelled due to Covid…
Q> What lessons have you learnt from your different roles in Soho?
James> The main lesson is that being good at pressing the buttons is only fifty percent of the job. The need to evolve with the tech is paramount, I’m looking forward to honing my Dolby Atmos skills at Grand Central.
For bookings with James and to hear about our new rates please contact Katie and Tash at GCbookings@grandcentral.studio
