After earning production qualifications through the Berklee College of Music and completing an internship with Grammy award-nominated producer and mixer Jeff Balding, Rusti opened his own recording studio, Heritage Sound, in 2009. Situated inside a music store at the heart of Cape Town's celebrated Heritage Square, the space developed a singular reputation - particularly for its signature drum sound, enriched by the unique acoustic character of the 250-year-old yellowwood floors and double-volume ceilings. These features, combined with Rusti's technical expertise and his exceptional gift with people, opened doors to an exciting variety of award-winning work.

To this day, some of South Africa's biggest names have tracked with Rusti, yet he has also mentored many musicians just starting out in their careers.  Rusti co-writes, produces and mixes, and is passionate about helping artists craft the sound they seek regardless of genre or level of experience.

Fun facts! Rusti:

• Grew up in Melkbosstrand, Cape Town, as one of four siblings. As a teenager, he loved bodyboarding & surfing.

• Is an F1 Grand Prix fan. Top team: McLaren. Top driver: Lewis Hamilton.

• Is a keen golfer. 

• Can fall asleep in under 10 seconds.

• Loves travelling! His holiday of choice will always be a cruise or a mountain retreat.

• Is a night owl.

• Loves sci-fi fantasy cinema.

• Is a dad. . . to two Black Russian Terriers! You might have spotted Beorn & Cora on his Instagram.

• . . . is in the process of designing his first ever bespoke piece of studio gear with his new enterprise, Dark Bear Audio, in collaboration with Saša Ristić of Beebird Audio and Mother Audio. You can follow his progress by reading his +journal+ or checking out his YouTube channel.