This week’s dilemma is from Nathan, who's in a band with three other mates. They’re doing quite well and are keen to record some of their tracks so they can produce their first E.P.

But Nathan's concerned that while three of the guys are all quite good and at the same level of musicianship, one of the guys, the drummer, is not as good. He’s a good live drummer, where timing doesn’t matter as much, but struggles with his timing in a rehearsal setting. They’ve been playing together for about 9 months.

Nathan is torn – he wants the best recording possible, and is thinking about possibly hiring a professional drummer just for the recording. But on the other hand, he doesn’t want to upset the drummer they already have. Hiring a replacement would send a pretty clear signal that he wasn’t good enough.

Nathan loves his mate and doesn’t want to upset him. They’ve all been friends for about 8 years. But because it is an investment of time and money, he also wants the best possible outcome for the EP they produce.

Should a good quality recording take priority over a friendship? If they do get a pro drummer in how will that impact the group dynamic of the band? What advice would you give Nathan?