Why Jack Kays Came Back to 38 North Studio

Jack Kays has embarked on a new recording session at Washington D.C.'s 38 North Studio, returning to the facility for ten days to work on material for an upcoming release. This marks a continuation of his previous experience at the studio, where he added finishing touches to his last album, Deadbeat!. After completing a tour in Australia as an opening act for Pierce the Veil, Kays chose to record again at 38 North, signaling a strong preference for the studio's environment and team.

38 North Studio, founded by Sarah Marks and Buddy Speir, offers a recording experience that blends analog equipment with modern production technology. The studio emphasizes collaborative work, encouraging musicians to perform together in shared spaces rather than relying solely on isolated home recordings. This approach is designed to preserve the communal aspect of music creation amid a digital landscape that increasingly favors remote and independent production.

Kays' decision to return was influenced notably by the studio’s live room and the passion conveyed by the staff, particularly Sean Russell and Buddy Speir, during his initial visit. The atmosphere and technical expertise at 38 North contributed to his intention to record his next full project there, showing a commitment to the studio’s values and facilities.

The studio has garnered regional acclaim, having won the Best Music Studio award at the Washington Area Music Awards in both 2024 and 2025. These accolades reflect the studio’s impact within the local music community and highlight its reputation for quality and artist-focused service.

In addition to its awards, 38 North Studio offers a unique behind-the-scenes glimpse through a walkthrough video created by Carter Louthian, featuring original music by Virg Vision. Photography by Louthian and Cagla Akcadag further documents the creative environment and the musicians working within the facility, underlining the studio’s commitment to transparency and artist engagement.

Jack Kays’ musical style incorporates elements from alternative rock, punk, and hip-hop, blending these genres in a way that has attracted attention throughout his career. He has previously been associated with Columbia Records and has toured internationally, building a diverse audience. Currently, working independently, Kays’ choice to return to 38 North Studio signals a preference for hands-on, collaborative recording sessions over solo, home-based production.

The ongoing use of 38 North Studio by artists like Kays underscores a broader trend in the industry where musicians seek out communal spaces to develop arrangements and capture live performances. Such studios provide an alternative to the increasingly common practice of producing songs independently with home recording software, which, while flexible, can miss the creative synergy of in-person collaboration.

By working directly with producers, engineers, and fellow musicians in real time, artists can experiment with different arrangements and make adjustments on the spot. This interactive process often leads to a richer, more dynamic final product, which is something 38 North Studio aims to facilitate.

For Kays, the appeal lies not only in the technical setup but in the people behind the studio who prioritize passion and collaboration. His enthusiasm following his first recording experience there suggests the studio has successfully created a space that resonates with artists looking for both high-quality production and a supportive environment.

This return session at 38 North reflects a commitment to professional recording artistry amid a shifting industry landscape where digital tools have transformed how music is made. It highlights the value of boutique studios in maintaining the tradition of joint musicianship and real-time creative exchange.

Further details about Kays’ upcoming release remain unconfirmed, but his recording activity at 38 North Studio indicates active development of new material. The studio’s Instagram page continues to showcase sessions and artist projects, offering insight into the ongoing creative work happening within its walls.

Jack Kays’ choice to record locally after an international tour illustrates a strategic balance between touring and studio work, potentially shaping the promotional and performance cycle for his forthcoming album. His sustained collaboration with 38 North Studio may also influence the sonic character of his next project, given the studio’s equipment and live recording emphasis.

As the recording progresses, attention will turn to how this environment impacts the final sound and reception of Kays’ new work, which could contribute to his evolving catalog and artistic trajectory.