Features 95
MXR Slash Octave Fuzz Pedal: The Underdog of Fuzz?
The MXR Slash Octave Fuzz is a pedal that sounds like it knows it is the underdog. It’s angry, gritty, and intimidating, and if you think you can handle it, it is well worth spicing up your chain with. Now, why do I consider this pedal an “underdog?” Well, Slash is not particularly known for using fuzz. So the […]
Micro Cube GX: Small Amp, Big Surprises!
One of the best things about being a guitar player is that our rigs can be great tools for creativity. Whether it’s with larger-than-life amps, or large, complex pedal boards, the possibilities are truly endless! But sometimes, even the gear addicts among us like sitting down to play without having to hook up the entire […]
Concerts to Stream From Home
While we’ve been stuck at home, I’ve been getting my live music fix by watching past concerts available on streaming services as well as YouTube. It’s important that we try to support live music venues across the country through organizations like NIVA so musicians have a place to play when it’s safe to do so. […]
The Quarantined Musician, Part III: Making it Through to the Other Side
Welcome to the third and final installment of “The Quarantined Musician.” You don’t need me to tell you that this is a difficult time to be a musician. It has ravaged many of us mentally, emotionally and financially. My goal with this series was to: 1. Let you know that you are not alone in […]
The Quarantined Musician, Part II: Making the Most of a Gig-less World
At the time of writing, it has been nearly eight months since the world of live entertainment shut down. That hardly seems correct because it feels like it’s been eight years. Sure, there have been a handful of drive-in concerts, but let’s be honest — it just ain’t the same. While much of Europe goes […]
The Quarantined Musician: Navigating Music in a Gig-less World
Basketball was the beginning of the end. There are pillars in our lives that give context and support to the fragile trepidations of our day-to-day livelihood. Sports, like music, are a universal conduit of stability and hope for many people on this planet. On Wednesday March 11, 2020, we walked off stage in Atlanta, GA […]
Six Great Books for Guitarists
As someone who consumes a lot of documentaries, interviews of my favorite musicians on YouTube, and being an all-around nerd about guitars and guitar history, I thought I’d share some of my favorite books for guitarists. These books cover everything from guitar history to autobiographies to lessons. Give your eyes a rest from the screens […]
Gibson Hummingbird Studio Rosewood Review
Think of a Gibson Hummingbird, and vibrant visions of the 1960s probably come to mind. With its vivid Cherry Burst finish, mahogany back and sides, and detailed pickguard illustration, the Hummingbird is instantly recognizable. But what if you were looking for a little something different? Enter the Gibson Hummingbird Studio Rosewood. Not your ordinary Gibson […]
Talking Shop: No Space Like Home
With so many of us cooped up due to self-quarantine and stay-in-place orders, we’re gaining a new appreciation for the great indoors. Musicians, producers and the like are turning to their home studios for refuge, whether starting new projects or just tidying up a bit. In this edition of Talking Shop, we’re showcasing some zZounds […]
