The Tape Shed
After spending 10 years recording in and around London, working on Zealots material and with other artists, I decided it was time to build my own space. It looks and sounds like the band. Vintage instruments and amplifiers, going through tape and dusty valves. Everything is focussed on capturing moments by musicians. This had led to the privilege of inviting other artists and bands in also. Highlights below....
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Massive shout out to my family and all the Zealads for supporting me through the build as well as all the companies who have continued to support me along the way; Audient, Aston Mics, Sontronics Mics, Dickinson Amplification and Eastwood Guitars.
Aylwin x
Reviews
​"Recorded everything from Hammond Organ and Piano to Drums and Vocals here for Benedict Cork's debut album. Aylwin's space is peaceful, comfortable and inspiring. Everything is set up easily so we could down ideas straight away. If you're looking for a vibe, Aylwin can bring it! Loads of vintage gear, mics, tape, speakers and guitars galore. Aylwin is always kind, always professional and always a good hang. And makes a great cup of tea."
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Hoost (Benedict Cork / Olivia Nelson)
★★★★★
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"Have recorded here a load now! Aylwin has created an incredible space for creativity and professional recording. He has so many great instruments to cover all bases and a load of cool vintage toys for vibe! Looking forward to recording and sharing more releases created in this space."
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Charlie Morton (George Ezra)
​★★★★★
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"Have recorded at this studio and written with Aylwin a few times now and always have the best time. Cosy, comfortable, vibey studio with beautiful equipment that sounds amazing. Aylwin is so good at what he does and has set a perfect environment to create something special. Love it x"
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Sepha
★★★★★
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"Great setup, the drum sound is lush!! So warm!"
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Sarah Jane
​★★★★★
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"The Tape Shed is the perfect studio for turning your musical ideas into reality. This studio has contributed to many of my recordings and it's one of my go to places outside of my own setup. The piano has a lovely sound, and there is no shortage of amps and a warmth intrinsically embedded into each instrument there. Walking in to The Tape Shed always feels like arriving at a home away from home and gives you freedom to create without the pressure that comes with bigger studios, whilst remaining able to attain to the same professional standards. I've even been able to rehearse with my band there, which is great for low volume rehearsals that can even be multitracked. Definitely worth using."
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Aaron Taylor​
★★★★★
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"Aylwin has crafted the perfect environment for creativity. Between the great gear and being close to nature, it’s the ideal place to spend a few days finding that extra bit of magic"​​
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Staniforth (Jessie Ware / Ella Eyre)
​★★★★★
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"Whether it be recording or just hanging. I’ve always had a great time at the Tape Shed. Great gear. Great sounds. Top vibes. Highly recommend for your project, big or small."
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Seye Adelekan (Gorillaz / Damon Albarn)​
★★★★★
The Tape Shed Presents: Soul School
The Tape Shed opens Soul School! The Zealots have been teaching over 15 years and are now opening back up slots for private tuition. Lessons currently being offered are by Aylwin Steele for Electric Guitar and Studio Recording Techniques. Please use the form below to get in contact!
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Testimonials:
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"I still think fondly back to my guitar lessons with Aylwin - interesting, fun and a great range of practise areas that challenged me to become a better guitarist. Very grateful that I had some time under the wing of such a high quality teacher and musician."
Jacob Hilton​​
★★★★★
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"I had the privilege of learning from Aylwin Steele when I had been playing guitar for around 10 months, and I can honestly say he transformed the way I approach the instrument. He opened my eyes and ears to proper technique and helped me develop a deeper understanding of gospel, soul, pop, and funk—genres that have become the foundation of my playing.
Aylwin’s teaching style is all about encouragement and positivity. He focuses on building you up as a musician, making every lesson something to look forward to. His patience and kindness kept me motivated, and his enthusiasm for music made learning an exciting journey rather than a challenge. He gave me the confidence to express myself on the guitar, and his lessons continue to shape my playing to this day.
Beyond being an incredible teacher, Aylwin became a great and understanding friend. If you’re looking to build confidence, improve your technique, and take your playing to the next level, I couldn’t recommend him highly enough! 🎸"
Andrew Odunlami
​​★★★★★
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I took guitar lessons with Aylwin when I was about 15 through to 17. I’d say he’s been the most influential person on me musically. Beyond the guitar, he’s also taught me an enormous amount in terms of music production, mixing, and sound engineering. Aylwin wasn’t the only guitar teacher I had growing up. But the reason he stands out from the others is his ability to inspire. In my opinion that’s something more important than theoretical knowledge and even communication skills, especially when teaching young people, many of whom will unfortunately give up on music. It’s been about ten years since those lessons now, and I’m still in love with my guitar, playing regularly in a band setting, and making music in the studio – I cannot express how grateful I am for that!
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Isaac Paten
​​★★★★★
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