Music is the universal language
“Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.” - Luke 2:14
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Better Lovers Rig Rundown with Will Putney, Jordan Buckley & Steve Micciche
Tuning up for their own tour that starts this week, the loud ’n’ heavy merchants from Buffalo show PG’s Perry Bean how they apply the hot sauce.
In Better Lovers, guitarists Jordan Buckley and Will Putney, plus bassist Stephen Micciche, go heavy and strange—a combination they achieve by carefully selecting their instruments, amps, and effects. Their latest album is called Highly Irresponsible, but when it comes to nailing their riffs and sounds, this Rundown with PG’s Perry Bean, filmed recently at Nashville’s Brooklyn Bowl, makes it clear they are anything but that!
One-Eyed 6 Strings
Putney’s main guitar is a road-worn Dunable Cyclops, built especially for him by Sacha Dunable. It became the blueprint for his Dunable signature model. “The signatures are awesome, but I love this guitar. I play it to death,” he says. It‘s got an EMG 81 pickup and a master volume dial. That’s it. Putney has a backup that’s nearly identical, except for the stage rash.
Practice Makes….
Putney is using this DE version of his signature to practice new songs and the new sounds that come along with them, including those made via the onboard EHX Pitchfork circuit, with power/signal bypass, momentary on/off latching, pitch up/down/both selection, an interval selector, and a mix knob. The scale is 25.5" and it sports a Graphtech TUSQ nut along with an EMG 81. Most Better Lovers tunes are in drop D, by the way, with Ernie Ball strings.
Power Rager
This Peavey 6505 V2 arrived just in time for this night's gig, sliding in next to the two 5150s that have been in Putney’s live rig for years. It’s got 120 watts and invokes the spirit of one of Eddie Van Halen’s favorite heads. It’s got 6L6s, but he’s contemplating a swap with EL84s after the tour, just for an A/B test.
Cab Envy
How about a pair of Atlas custom 6x12 cabinets to plug your guitar and pedals into? “They’re loud,” Putney understates. And he A/Bs between that Peavey/Atlas combination and a Vox AC30 for his clean and dirty sounds. He uses a Mastermind PBC by RJM Music Technologies for switching both amps and pedals.
Set It, Don’t Sweat It
Here’s a look at where Putney’s AC30 lives.
Pedal Power
Running through that Mastermind are a fuzz pedal Putney designed with God City’s/Converge’s Kurt Ballou called the Pariah, and there’s also a Sinkhole, Astral Destiny, and Soft Focus Reverb from Catalinbread, an EQD Dispatch Master, two EHX Pitchforks, a Fortin Zuul+, a Strymon El Capistan, a Better Lovers signature Night Terror overdrive, and a Kevin Hickey Signature Chorus.
Blue Bomber
Buckley got this ’78 SG from Rochester, New York’s House of Guitars when he was a kid. It’s been through a lot of breaks but has come through triumphant, with double EMG 81s. And the Vox AC30 it’s leaning on is his, too. Listen to how it sounds with a whole lotta reverb and a slide in the Rundown! That’s his sound for the concert opener on the current tour.
Don’t Even Look at This Guitar
Here’s Buckley’s favorite ESP Eclipse, also with EMGs and lot of wear on the rear upper bout an around the picking zone. It’s got an ESP “full-thickness” body, so it’s heavier than his beloved SG.
More Dunable
This Cyclops has got its original two Dunable pickups and a tone and volume control—another stripped-down heavy-rock machine! How did Buckley acquire this one? He wanted a red guitar for a video, and Dunable, after an ask from Putney, delivered.
Effect-ive
What’s he got on the floor? A Lehle Little Dual II amp switcher, a TC Electronic Polytune, a Boss NS-2 Noise Suppressor, an EarthQuaker A/B box and Dispatch Master, an MXR Analog Chorus, a Walrus Audio Fathom Multi-Function Reverb, a Better Lovers signature Night Terror overdrive, and a Coppersound X Jack White Triplegraph Octave.
Marshall Power
Buckley says he’s been using JCM 800s for decades. This one is borrowed and “feeds back a little less than the ones I own,” he confides.
Preacher Tone
And here’s his Revv Generator 120, which he sets on channel 4.
Foam-O
Micciche’s seafoam green Deluxe PJ is a not-so-common bottom rung. It has a P body and a J neck. It boasts a pair of Seymour Duncan Quarter Pounder bass pickups.
The Ass Beater
That’s right: Micciche calls this one the Ass Beater. It’s an Ibanez with active Bartolini pickups. Strictly speaking, it’s an Iron Label SRMS625EX with a 5-piece, multi-scale walnut neck and Ebonol fretboard.
California Dreamin’
This Sandberg California model was a custom order, with active and passive pickup options.
Bass Barkers
Here’s the array of Micciche’s powerhouse bass amp line-up: an Orange AD 200 Bass Mk3 he’s had about 15 years anchors his stage left, stage right hosts an Orange Terror Bass, the AD 200 goes through an Orange cab while the Terror hits an Aguilar 8x10. Both rigs fire at once, all the time.
Dirty Half-Dozen
A modest six boxes rest on Micciche’s board: an Orange Two-Stroke, a Darkglass Microtubes B7K Ultra, an MXR Studio Compressor, a Lehle Little Dual switcher, a TC Electronic Polytune, and his wireless. A Voodoo Lab Pedal Power 4 stokes the fires.
EarthQuaker Devices Astral Destiny Reverb Pedal
Catalinbread Soft Focus Shoegaze Reverb Pedal
EarthQuaker Devices Dispatch Master
Lehle Little Dual II Amp Switcher
Darkglass Microtubes B7K Ultra
Charvel launches new seven-string, upgraded version of Angel Vivaldi’s signature Nova guitar
Charvel has partnered with virtuoso Angel Vivaldi on a new version of his signature Nova guitar – the Angel Vivaldi Signature Pro-Mod Nova-7 NAT.
This new seven-string guitar is the result of a close collaboration with Vivaldi, and offers a natural finish with gold hardware. It’s described as “perfect for the modern shredder” by the brand, and follows on from a number of six- and seven-string versions of the original Nova, which was first launched in 2019.
The Pro-Mod Nova-7 NAT is inspired by Vivaldi’s explorations into Latin fusion, funk, and acoustic works. It hosts premium features including a modified Dinky caramelised basswood body capped with a flame maple top, and three-ply body binding.
It also has a sculpted heel for upper fret access, while a tilt-back reverse seven-string Fender Stratocaster headstock provides “ideal string tension”. Its 12”-16” compound radius maple fingerboard has rolled edges, 24 jumbo frets, cascading black dot inlays and a Gotoh locking nut.
Furthermore, its bolt-on maple neck is custom-shaped to Vivaldi’s preferences with graphite reinforcement, a satin back finish, Luminlay side dots, and a heel-mount truss rod adjustment wheel.
The guitar has a HH pickup configuration consisting of a DiMarzio Tone Zone bridge pickup and DiMarzio Air Norton neck pickup, both decorated with gold covers. There’s five-way blade pickup switch, dome-style volume and tone knobs, a recessed Gotoh GE1996T-7 double-locking tremolo bridge, and Charvel-branded die-cast tuners.
Take a look at the guitar and hear how it sounds below:
“This Nova is eight years in the making and sports some pretty considerable upgrades that will really take things up a notch,” comments Vivaldi. “The natural finish really reminds me that it just isn’t a piece of gear, it’s like this living breathing part of the creative process for me…it just feels free, no resistance, no restrictions.”
Peter Wichers, Product Manager of Charvel Guitars, adds: “This collaboration allows us to merge Angel’s signature playing techniques with Charvel’s legendary craftsmanship, resulting in an instrument that serves both traditional and modern progressive players.
“Angel embodies the virtuosic technique and forward-thinking approach that has defined Charvel for decades. His musical versatility, technical precision and innovative vision perfectly align with our commitment to creating instruments that push boundaries.”
The Angel Vivaldi Signature Pro-Mod Nova-7 NAT is priced at £1,499/$1,999.99. Find out more via Charvel.
The post Charvel launches new seven-string, upgraded version of Angel Vivaldi’s signature Nova guitar appeared first on Guitar.com | All Things Guitar.
The Mark IIC++ Available for the First Time as a Limited-Edition Production Model
Built in Petaluma, CA, experience one of the rarest and most coveted vintage amplifiers ever, the Mark IIC++, in solid new form, built by the same artisans who crafted the originals 40 years ago.
MESA/Boogie® is the original boutique Home of Tone, handcrafting amplifiers of uncompromising quality from the world’s finest materials in Petaluma, California, USA. Today, with reverence and pride, MESA/Boogie has announced the arrival of the storied Mark IIC++® amplifiers. An extremely limited production, now is your chance to own an original icon. The new MESA/Boogie Mark IIC++ amplifiers are now available worldwide to the public for the first time at authorized MESA/Boogie dealers and on www.mesaboogie.com.
We’re excited to bring a very special first official production run of the Mark IIC++, a very special ‘mod,’ done to a very few Mark IIC+ amplifiers at the request of, first Vivian Campbell, and later after other artists hearing about its added gain and girth,” says Doug West, Director, Tone Lab, Gibson Amplifiers and MESA/Boogie. “Over time this mod that was never an official model, logged a healthy list of A-Level artist recordings and this kept our Chief Tech and IIC+ guru Mike Bendinelli busy for decades doing the mod for musicians who’d heard of the legendary aggression for metal styles and sent their IIC+’s bought used to him for an update. This limited run of 200 very special new production amplifiers gives those who have always dreamed of a C++ a chance to own one without the hefty price tag of a pre-owned 40-year-old original IIC+ and the shipping and labor costs for the update. Not to mention that it’s a solid, reliable, and consistent new build backed by our five-year warranty!”
The iconic Mark IIC+ amps were first developed in 1985 at the request of Vivian Campbell, and later by Kirk Hammett of Metallica, along with other noteworthy artists of the day who eventually heard them, MESA/Boogie made some modifications to a few production Mark IIC+ amps to achieve more gain in the overdrive mode and attain a thicker, heavier gain sound. These “++” designated IICs were created for the select few artists who requested them in the twilight of the C+ lifecycle and were never officially offered as a production model. The veil of time has obscured the exact number; however, it is believed that perhaps 20 or so of these mythical IIC++’s were created during the original mid-1980s IIC+ lifecycle.
In the years that followed, players who heard tales of the blistering tone and were into heavy sounds, sent their C+’s to Tech Guru and archivist at MESA/Boogie, Mike Bendinelli, to have the “++ Mod” performed outside of production time at considerable cost. Now, MESA is excited to announce a limited-edition build of only 200 of these rare amplifiers, in tribute to the music played on them and the era that spawned the great guitarists whose work therein has withstood the test of time and become truly iconic.
This new Mark IIC++ build has increased gain in the preamp, which affects the LEAD Mode only, leaving the CLEAN Mode to produce the same sparkling clean performance as the standard IIC+ production model. The LEAD Mode is thicker sounding in these ++ versions, with enhanced low end and more top end gain, cut, and harmonic layering. Visually, the ++ is identical to the current production IIC+ model offered once again, aside from the ++ notation on the etched panel on the back panel and the IIC++ plaque on the front grille.
Experience one of the rarest and most coveted vintage amplifiers ever, the Mark IIC++, in solid new form built by the same artisans who built the originals 40 years ago. These awe-inspiring gain machines have fueled some of the most iconic rock sounds ever captured on record. Now, you can have a chance at owning one of these mythical beasts and utilizing its “incendiary” gain and expressive power for your musical dreams and aspirations. Don’t miss out on this limited-time build of the infamous Mark IIC++.
“I walk in and see on the board: ‘Beck, Satriani, Lukather, Slash.’ I thought it was a send-up”: Spinal Tap once surprised Nigel Tufnel with an all-star guitar solo tribute – but he wasn't thrilled about it
Martin Guitar's New Inception, X Series & Road Series Models
C. F. Martin & Co.® is proud to announce the release of five exciting new models that blend tradition with innovation and meet the needs of today’s diverse players. The launch includes a refreshed GPCE Inception Maple with a bold new gloss finish, the all-new non-cutaway GPE Inception Maple, two special X Series additions, and the SC-10E Spruce—a fresh take on Martin’s revolutionary SC design now joining the Road Series.
GPCE Inception Maple
Martin’s game-changing Inception Series gets a visual and tonal upgrade with the refreshed GPCE Inception Maple. Now featuring a full-body gloss amber fade sunburst finish, this model blends cutting-edge acoustic design with FSC®-certified tonewoods. A European spruce top delivers bold projection and quick response, while flamed maple back and sides provide clarity and brightness, all balanced by a black walnut wedge. Skeletonized bracing and sonic channeling—purpose-built for this tonewood pairing—enhance both sustain and amplitude. With premium appointments like a satin black walnut neck, FSC-certified ebony fingerboard and bridge, and LR Baggs Anthem electronics, the GPCE Inception Maple proves that sustainability, innovation, and striking aesthetics can coexist in perfect harmony.
GPE Inception Maple
Also debuting is the GPE Inception Maple, which brings a non-cutaway Grand Performance shape to the Inception Series for the first time. Players will enjoy the same striking tonewood pairing, premium appointments, and Martin’s innovative bracing as the GPCE model—but with a full-body design for those who prefer a more traditional silhouette. It offers a crisp, balanced tone that’s effortlessly expressive, with the added visual punch and presence of its new gloss finish. Paired with LR Baggs Anthem electronics, this model delivers a truly dynamic and versatile acoustic-electric experience.
GP-X2E Ziricote Special
Expanding the X Series lineup is the GP-X2E Ziricote Special, a limited-time Grand Performance model that blends bold tone with player-focused features. With a solid sapele top and ziricote-patterned high-pressure laminate (HPL) back and sides, this guitar is durable, stylish, and responsive. The Performing Artist neck profile and high-performance taper ensure smooth playability, while Martin E1 electronics with a built-in tuner give you full control on stage or at home. It’s an affordable, road-ready companion for players of all levels.
OMC-X2E Ziricote Special
Also new to the X Series is the OMC-X2E Ziricote Special, offering the comfort of a 000 body with a 25.4" scale length for greater projection and sustain. Its cutaway design allows easy upper fret access, and like its Grand Performance sibling, it features a solid sapele top, ziricote-patterned HPL back and sides, and Martin E1 electronics with onboard tuning. This versatile model is ideal for fingerstyle players, singer-songwriters, and anyone looking for rich tone in a sleek, stage-ready package.
SC-10E Spruce
Rounding out this launch is the SC-10E Spruce, a new addition to Martin’s Road Series that brings the revolutionary SC body shape to even more players. With its patented Sure Align® neck system and Low Profile Velocity neck, it offers unmatched comfort and unrestricted access to every fret. The solid spruce top paired with solid sapele back and sides creates a balanced, dynamic voice that excels in any genre. Finished with Martin E1 electronics and a built-in tuner, this is a modern acoustic-electric built for the stage, studio, or wherever the music takes you.
For more information on these and other models from Martin, visit martinguitar.com.
“Whenever we weren’t playing, Neil would call up and say, ‘Are you guys playing a gig next weekend? Can we borrow the amplifier?’” When Randy Bachman and Neil Young used to share guitar amps
Mesa/Boogie officially releases Mark IIC++ modified amplifier to the public for the first time
Mesa/Boogie is officially releasing the storied Mark IIC++ modified amplifier to the public for the first time ever. The amp has been re-created in an extremely limited production run, and is available worldwide.
The original Mark IIC+ amps were first developed in 1985 at the request of Vivian Campbell, and later by Kirk Hammett of Metallica. The Mesa/Boogie brand eventually made some modifications to a few production Mark IIC+ amps to achieve more gain in the overdrive mode, leading to the birth of the ‘++’ version.
Designated ++ IICs were created for the select few artists who requested them and were never officially offered as a production model, and it is estimated that only 20 or so of them were created during the mid-1980s.
In the years that followed, the ++ tone became highly sought after by players who loved a heavy sound, with many sending their C+’s to tech guru and archivist at Mesa/Boogie, Mike Bendinelli, to have the ‘++ mod’ performed outside of production time for a fee.
Image: MESA/Boogie
With all this in mind, Mesa/Boogie have essentially revived a unicorn of the amplifier world, making it available to buyers across the globe. However, there are only 200 of these rare amplifiers available.
According to the brand, this new Mark IIC++ build has increased gain in the preamp, which affects the LEAD Mode only, so the CLEAN Mode can produce the same clean performance as the standard IIC+ production model. The LEAD Mode is thicker sounding in these ++ versions, and has enhanced low end and more top end gain, cut, and harmonic layering.
Take a closer look and hear one in action below:
Doug West (Director, Tone Lab, Gibson Amplifiers, and Mesa/Boogie) comments, “We’re excited to bring a very special first official production run of the Mark IIC++, a very special ‘mod’ done to a very few Mark IIC+ amplifiers… Over time this mod that was never an official model, logged a healthy list of A-Level artist recordings and this kept our Chief Tech and IIC+ guru Mike Bendinelli busy for decades.”
West continues, “This limited run of 200 very special new production amplifiers gives those who have always dreamed of a C++ a chance to own one without the hefty price tag of a pre-owned 40-year-old original IIC+ and the shipping and labour costs for the update. Not to mention that it’s a solid, reliable, and consistent new build backed by our five-year warranty.”
The Mark IIC++ amplifier is priced at £3,899.00. Find out more via the Mesa/Boogie website.
The post Mesa/Boogie officially releases Mark IIC++ modified amplifier to the public for the first time appeared first on Guitar.com | All Things Guitar.
Martin’s new Inception model brings a non-cutaway Grand Performance shape to the series for the first time
Martin has launched five new guitars, including two additions to the Inception range, two special X Series models, and a new SC design joining its Road Series.
These new launches bring new aesthetics, and even some firsts, to three of its key, existing lineups. Notably, the debut of the GPE Inception Maple – a non-cutaway version of its eye-catching sustainably-ethos’d Inception model, which debuted last year.
In fact, it’s not just a new guitar – the cutaway GPCE Inception Maple is getting something of an overhaul that makes its looks somewhat less polarising and unconventional than it was at launch. Most notably, perhaps, is the change from a walnut bridge and fingerboard to a more traditional-looking (but still FSC-certified) ebony.
The body itself retains the striking amber fade sunburst finish of the original, but rather than the matt finish we saw in 2024, this is now all-over gloss, with a satin-finished neck.
Elsewhere it’s as you were, with the same European spruce top, flamed maple back and sides, plus a black walnut wedge on the three-piece back
But the headline event is no doubt the the GPE Inception Maple, this guitar offers has the same tonewoods, visual appointments, and clever internal architecture as the original – including Martin’s skeletonised bracing, but delivers a full-body design for a more traditional silhouette. If the GPCE was too radical a departure for you visually, this one feels much more in the classic Martin wheelhouse.
Image: Martin
Moving on to the X Series, two Ziricote Specials join the range – the GP-X2E and the OMC-X2E. The former is a limited-time Grand Performance model with a solid sapele top and ziricote-patterned high-pressure laminate (HPL) back and sides. It has a Performing Artist neck profile and high-performance taper, plus Martin E1 electronics with a built-in tuner.
As for the latter, the OMC is said to offer the comfort of a 000 body with a 25.4” scale length for “greater projection and sustain”. It has a cutaway design, and like its Grand Performance sibling, it features a solid sapele top, ziricote-patterned HPL back and sides, and Martin E1 electronics with onboard tuning.
GP-X2E. Image: Martin
OMC-X2E. Image: Martin
The SC-10E Spruce is the final new launch as part of this Martin drop – a new addition to the Road Series with an SC body shape. It has a patented Sure Align neck system and Low Profile Velocity neck, and its solid spruce top is paired with solid sapele back and sides. Also joined by E1 electronics and a built-in tuner, Martin describes this guitar as “a modern acoustic-electric built for the stage, studio, or wherever the music takes you”.
Image: Martin
To find out more or shop the new models now, head over to Martin Guitar.
The post Martin’s new Inception model brings a non-cutaway Grand Performance shape to the series for the first time appeared first on Guitar.com | All Things Guitar.
5 Minute Lesson: Julian Lage Teaches How to Add Dimension to Your Playing
“We would play these guitars that were supposedly the most expensive, the most rare, like, ‘There's nothing special about it’”: Joe Satriani on why he’s become disillusioned by vintage guitars
“It’s a dream come true”: Ariel Posen announces his first Fender signature guitar
Guitarist Ariel Posen has just scored himself his very first Fender signature. The Limited Edition Ariel Posen Stratocaster is a guitar as versatile as the man himself, designed to tackle just about any genre from the blues, to neo soul, to classic rock and roll.
Posen’s signature Stratocaster bridges the gap between the past and the present. Coming in a nostalgic, “road-worn” Faded Lake Placid Blue finish, the aesthetic is one of nostalgia. This is aided by the guitar’s vintage-style tuning machines, frets, hardtail bridge, and 1969 ‘U’ neck shape.
Despite the aesthetic, the look is balanced out with ample new sonic injections for a sharp, modern sound. The Strat boasts custom AP-90 pickups developed by Fender’s guitar wizard Tim Shaw. It also has custom Caballo Férreo wiring for to tweak master volume and tone, as well as a 3-way switch.
“It’s a dream come true,” Posen notes in his Instagram announcement. “As a kid growing up playing guitar, these are the things you would never expect to experience in a million years. I’m so incredibly grateful for this opportunity, and even more excited to have a guitar that’s so true and authentic to myself.”
Posen further explains the workshopping behind his signature Strat in a Fender press release: “This is the most genuine and authentic representation of what I’m looking for in a guitar. I was always a Strat guy and always felt most comfortable playing them, so it was important to capture those qualities.”
“The AP90 pickups really highlight my love for Jazzmasters – there’s something so open and airy about those guitars. More than anything, this Strat embodies everything I love about Fender and condenses it into one instrument.”
The Fender Custom Shop Director, Chase Paul, has also expressed his excitement over creating a guitar as versatile as Posen. “Ariel Posen’s playing style is outright jaw-dropping,” he explains. “He has a remarkable ability to weave together beautiful melodies, intricate technique and captivating dynamics in a way that’s approachable to a wide group of guitar players. When the Custom Shop had the opportunity to work with him on his signature Stratocaster, we knew it needed to exceed his expectations.”
“Our hope is that this particular combination of custom pickups, tonewoods and hardware come together to inspire players as powerfully as Ariel’s music does.”
The Limited Edition Ariel Posen Stratocaster is available now, and comes with a deluxe hardshell case and Moody Leather Ariel Posen signature strap. There’s also a signature brass slide thrown in, as well as some Dunlop Ariel Posen picks and a certificate of authenticity.
The announcement also welcomes in a new era for the Fender Custom Shop. Fender has announced a new series, From the Factory Floor, to take people behind the scenes and show how the company’s California factory operates. It will feature artist performances, as well as discussions with guitar and amp builders. The first episode with Ariel Posen is available now.
Grab yourself a Limited Edition Ariel Posen Strat now.
The post “It’s a dream come true”: Ariel Posen announces his first Fender signature guitar appeared first on Guitar.com | All Things Guitar.
Slayer’s Gary Holt thinks that some modern guitarists don’t put enough “conviction” and “passion” into their riffs
Gary Holt of Exodus and Slayer has shared his thoughts on what makes a killer riff, noting that conviction is vital to make something that sticks.
During a Q&A with Rock City in celebration of his new memoir, A Fabulous Disaster: From The Garage To Madison Square Garden, The Hard Way, Holt reveals how he’s balanced his respective careers with both of his bands, and shares how passion prevails over complexity when it comes to some of his best work.
“You just play until the riff speaks to you. I love riffs. I’m still a massive fan. It sounds really narcissistic to say I’m a super-fan of my riffs, but when I write a really good riff, I still get goosebumps,” he says (via Ultimate Guitar). “I love it. And when you’re recording it, and you hear it back with the savage guitars and drums, it’s like, ‘Oh yeah! It’s so awesome.’”
Offering up some sturdy advice, he continues: “There’s a limited number of notes on a guitar. There’s limited options on what you do with them, but it’s the passion you put into them. I mean, how many times can we go, E, E, F? Everybody could do it. But it’s the conviction you put in it.
“Try to bend notes, rhythm wise. People don’t do it enough. Dime [Dimebag Darrell] did it and everything. You can bend all over those riffs too, and just write riffs, have fun. Blacklist [by Exodus] is our number one streamed song in the world, and it’s four chords… It’s just about finding something that sticks,” he concludes.
Also in the interview, Holt explains that Slayer are taking things year by year, with no pressure or expectation to tour or record any music since their return to a live environment at a handful of select festivals. The shows took place after the band had previously completed a farewell tour in 2019.
“[Slayer] is not like a permanent commitment on my end anymore, and I’m able to focus on family number one, which is Exodus,” he says. “[They’re] my childhood friends. Slayer is my family as well, but they’re family number two. And at my age, I want to close my career out with the guys I started it with.”
Both Slayer and Exodus are playing at Louder Than Life festival and Hersheypark Stadium in September. Exodus are also due to play at Aftershock in October.
The post Slayer’s Gary Holt thinks that some modern guitarists don’t put enough “conviction” and “passion” into their riffs appeared first on Guitar.com | All Things Guitar.
“I don’t think LSD had a real big impact on the songwriting or guitar playing… it was just that we saw brighter colors and got high!” Roger McGuinn on The Byrds’ influential guitar style, and why they didn’t follow The Kinks and The Who into distortion
“I take these supplements to stay razor-sharp, night after night”: Yngwie Malmsteen launches signature protein powder as he expands his empire of gear to make you shred better
“One of the rarest and most coveted vintage amplifiers ever”: Mesa/Boogie’s hallowed Mark IIC++ was used by Metallica to shape the sound of 1980s metal – and now it’s been given a production release for the first time ever
“I imagine myself painting a picture. Before I only had 24 colors to use – now I have an infinite amount on my palette”: Meet Ben Lechuga, the Steve Vai-championed Chilean virtuoso who has gone fretless – and why he’s never going back
“Yes, Eric can certainly shred! But more important than his speed is his accuracy. Accuracy will always win the day over speed”: Joe Bonamassa shows you how to connect lead phrases like Eric Johnson
Podcast 507: Skip Heller Returns
Musician, composer, and writer Skip Heller was one of the Fretboard Journal’s earliest subjects, contributors, and podcast guests.
On this week’s show, we catch up with Skip to talk about his new exotica album, ‘Mojave After Dark.’ We chat about his early pieces for the magazine – including the story on John Hartford he penned for our fourth edition – and so much more. Skip has a wealth of knowledge when it comes to music. You may just want to take notes.
https://skiphellersvoodoo5.bandcamp.com/album/mojave-after-dark
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Stringjoy Strings: https://stringjoy.com
(Use the code FRETBOARD to save 10% off your first order)
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https://fretboardsummit.org/ (August 21-23, 2025 in Chicago!)
The post Podcast 507: Skip Heller Returns first appeared on Fretboard Journal.
“It’s like a Jazzmaster on steroids, but you still have that Strat essence”: Fender’s limited-edition Ariel Posen signature is a conceptual hybrid that blends two of the slide master’s favorite guitars together
“Getting excited is somewhat premature”: King Crimson manager counters Jakko Jakszyk’s claims that the band are recording a new album
Following comments made by Jakko Jakszyk about a new King Crimson record, the band’s manager has released a statement warning that we shouldn’t get our hopes up just yet.
Jakszyk, who joined Crimson in 2013 following Adrian Belew, recently gave an interview in which he said a record was in the making. It was also rumoured that the supposed album would feature the most recent Crimson lineup: Jakszyk, Robert Fripp, Mel Collins, Tony Levin, Pat Mastelotto, Gavin Harrison, and Jeremy Stacey.
Though unsure of any finer details regarding release date or what final form the material would actually take, the guitarist and singer said he’d been recording “with a view to it coming out in some format at some point”.
The band’s manager, David Singleton, has since suggested that to get excited about a new record is a little premature, however, and though he confirms there are recordings happening, there’s no set vision for them to be released.
In a statement shared via DMG Live, Singleton says, “Addressing the idea of some form of studio recording by the last incarnation of King Crimson, Bill Rieflin posed the excellent question ‘why make a studio album? There are excellent live recordings of all the songs out there already.’
“One possible answer would be an album the very sound of which no-one has ever heard before. A sound driven by the three drummers. And those drummers have now recorded studio versions of their parts – separately, so that there is perfect separation.”
He adds, “So there is the seed of a new recording. Whether it is an album, whether it sees the light of day, whether it is something else is unknown. As is the outcome of any creative process. So yes, recordings have taken place. Getting excited about the possibility of a new album, as has apparently been happening, is somewhat premature. Carts before horses.”
In other King Crimson news, the spinoff BEAT supergroup will be heading to Japan in September, and will put out a special live release that same month. Titled BEAT LIVE, the album was captured during their performance at the United Theater in LA.
To find out more about the BEAT band, you can head to the BEAT tour website.
The post “Getting excited is somewhat premature”: King Crimson manager counters Jakko Jakszyk’s claims that the band are recording a new album appeared first on Guitar.com | All Things Guitar.
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