There have been a few times where I got the mix and it was good. I tend to record the vocals last so they get added to the mix last.

I mix toward the finished product right from the beginning.....

So when I add the vocals I have a problem with getting them to the right level. Obviously if I start pulling track faders down that will change the entire dynamic on the mix..... might as well just start over if I do that... so.....

My solution: I add a bus and send everything in the mix to that bus except the vocals. I can now raise and lower the mix level keeping the relationships and dynamic of the mix..... while now able to fit the vocals in without having to use massive compression to hear it.

You can find my music at:
www.herbhartley.com
Add nothing that adds nothing to the music.
You can make excuses or you can make progress but not both.

The magic you are looking for is in the work you are avoiding.