Steve's approach is very, very interesting.
What I don't quite get is that all of the recordings made by Steve that I've heard sound quite nice. You would expect some records directed by some bands to sound bad, dated, with bad effect choices, bad amp choices, especially if the band is inexperienced or on a beginner level.
Steve, I know you don't speak much details about your recording methods, but, is it safe to assume that you get 95% or so of the sound that you want solely by mic choice, placement, preamp choice, room, etc, given that you've said that to you mixing is just "moving faders till it sounds right"?
I can't see you equalizing/compressing tracks to make them fit in the overall picture. On the other hand, I've never been able to make a decent mix without touching an EQ. This really confuses my little brain.
Even more confusing is the reality that both Steve's documentary approach and the more traditional "twist knobs like a madman" approach can yield equally excellent-sounding records. Not talking about authenticity here, but sound quality.
In any case, excellent food for thought.