Patrick Hyland, a guitarist and multi-instrumentalist, has been an integral part of Mitski's musical journey, from their college days to the present. Their collaboration has resulted in Mitski's rise to prominence in the alternative music scene, with Hyland's engineering, producing, mixing, and performing contributions to all but one of her records. The latest album, Nothing's About to Happen to Me, showcases Hyland's unique approach to production, drawing inspiration from the Ohio alt-rock band the Breeders and their gritty, scraped-elbows sound. The album's instrumentation, recorded in Hyland's home kitchen, dining room, and living room, creates a DIY, intimate atmosphere. The record's diverse sound, ranging from gentle folk to nuclear rock, is a testament to Hyland's versatility and attention to detail. Hyland's guitar playing, influenced by the Pixies and Charles Mingus, is characterized by a free, expressive style, with a focus on self-expression rather than technical prowess. This approach is reflected in his live gear setup, which includes a mix of vintage and modern equipment, with a particular fondness for fuzz pedals and amps that trace their lineage back to the 1959 Fender Bassman. Hyland's collaboration with Black Tape Amplifiers' John Capito has led to the creation of unique circuits, such as an amp with octal tubes in the preamp section and EL84s in the output section, resulting in a three-dimensional, dark sound. Mitski's compositions, brought to Hyland with lyrics, melodies, and structure, are then shaped by Hyland's production skills, aiming for a truthful and impactful presentation. Hyland's role as a producer involves a challenging process of achieving an 'ego death' on every track, transforming his initial ideas to create a cohesive and captivating final product. This dynamic collaboration between Hyland and Mitski has resulted in a series of critically acclaimed records, with Hyland's unique approach to production and guitar playing adding to the richness and depth of Mitski's music.
