Episodes
Sunday Dec 03, 2023
The Red Panda Tensor Pedal and Vertical Pedalboards
Sunday Dec 03, 2023
Sunday Dec 03, 2023
Exploring the Red Panda Tensor Pedal in this week's edition of Pedal Chemistry, we delve into the captivating world of the Red Panda Tensor pedal. This extraordinary piece of equipment opens up a realm of possibilities with its innovative reverse tape effects capabilities. But that's not all - the Tensor pedal also features pitch shifting, time stretching, hold functions, and loop functions that offer boundless creative potential. Seamlessly transitioning between modes, you can fully immerse yourself in experimentation and unearth unexpectedly fascinating results.
With the Red Panda Tensor, you can manipulate your sound in ways that defy convention. As you engage its real-time rewind feature, time slows down as if caught in a temporal vortex. Conversely, you can accelerate your playing to dizzying speeds, leaving a trail of sonic exhilaration. The pitch-shifting option allows you to explore uncharted territories, blending reverse play with unique tonal variations.
The ability to loop and overdub expands the Tensor pedal's artistic potential even further. You can effortlessly slice and rearrange phrases, creating intricate musical landscapes that defy temporal constraints. And let's not forget its impressive memory capacity, able to hold up to 9.4 seconds of audio in mono mode and 4.7 seconds in stereo. Furthermore, the pedal's stereo capabilities facilitate a wider sonic canvas, providing enhanced depth and spatial exploration.
One of the most remarkable features of the Tensor pedal is its instantaneous response to your playing. The pedal is constantly listening, offering you the opportunity to instantly rewind and revisit your recent musical explorations. Switching effortlessly between forward and reverse playback allows you to navigate through an auditory labyrinth, immersing yourself in a world of infinite sonic possibilities.
Discovering the Charm of Vertical Pedal Boards
During a recent browsing session on Etsy, I stumbled upon an intriguing world of pedal boards. While searching for single pedal desktop stands, my curiosity led me to explore the realm of wooden vertical pedal boards. Personally, I've never been a fan of 3D printed products as they often lack the charm and durability that comes with something lovingly crafted by hand, from wood.
And there I found Douglas Pedal Boards - a collection of unique, hand-built vertical pedal boards that immediately captured my attention. These meticulously constructed works of art exuded a sense of craftsmanship and authenticity rarely found in mass-produced alternatives. Each board possessed its own distinct characteristics, far from the uniformity of factory-made counterparts.
In conclusion, the combination of artistry and functionality found in these handcrafted vertical pedal boards from Douglas Pedal Boards is truly captivating. They elevate the aesthetics of your pedal setup while offering a reliable foundation for your effects.
00:00 Introduction to Episode 27
00:04 Exploring Vertical Pedal Boards
00:47 Review of Douglas Pedal Boards
07:44 The Impact of Technology on Composition
12:56 Exploring the Red Panda Tensor Pedal
13:40 Review of Red Panda Tensor Pedal
19:54 Sound Experiments with Red Panda Tensor Pedal
43:58 Conclusion and Contact Information
Check out my website for more gear reviews and lessons Anatomy of Guitar Tone
Sunday Nov 19, 2023
Improvisation Techniques for Creative Musical Expression
Sunday Nov 19, 2023
Sunday Nov 19, 2023
Anatomy of Tone: Episode 26 - The Art of Improvisation in Music
In this episode, the relevance of sweepstakes run by Seeker Electric Effects is discussed alongside a plea for assistance for a member of the community. The host later dives into various methods for improvising effectively. Central to this are skills such as ear training, understanding forms, in-depth knowledge of one's instrument and integrating music theory. Technology is also touched upon in terms of its benefits and distractions, particularly in relation to practice, along with the value of various apps in improving music theory and rhythm reading skills. A highlight includes how research and music transcription can decode and understand music, and the importance of rhythm in a musical piece. There's also a note about an upcoming examination of the Red Panda Tensor pedal and a plug for a charity initiative by Sound Toys plugins.
00:00 Introduction and Sweepstakes Announcement01:12 The Importance of Community Support01:48 The Art of Improvisation: Essential Skills02:10 The Power of Ear Training04:30 Understanding Musical Forms07:16 Knowledge of Your Instrument09:06 The Role of Music Theory11:28 The Value of Research in Music17:36 The Importance of Reading Music22:22 Inspiration from Bernard Herrmann and Learning Composition23:10 The Power of Reading Music and Notation23:49 Using Music as a Mnemonic Tool24:54 The Importance of Encoding in Improvisation25:39 The Art of Storytelling in Music27:21 The Role of Reading Music in Improvisation28:24 The Significance of Rhythm in Music39:56 The Impact of Technology on Improvisation Practice44:50 Useful Apps for Improvisation Practice48:15 The Importance of Transcription in Learning Music49:32 Learning Music Theory and Improvisation50:52 Upcoming Podcast Topics
Apps I mentioned:
Tempo
Music Tutor
Itabla
Relative Pitch
Goodnotes
#improvisation #musictheory #imporvisationforguitar #composer #composition #songwriting #musicinstruments #musictechnique #jamming #improvisationonpiano
Sunday Nov 12, 2023
Universal Audio Del-Verb and Breaking Down an Improvised Solo
Sunday Nov 12, 2023
Sunday Nov 12, 2023
In this week's podcast, I delved into the realm of the Universal Audio Del-Verb pedal. This pedal offers three classic UA reverbs and delays in a compact, user-friendly design. Such endeavors often sound too good to be true, but Universal Audio has proven their expertise by crafting a pedal that not only sounds fantastic but is also ideal for impromptu gigs and sonic exploration.
Additionally, I share insights into my approach to an improvised solo performed during a recent gig with the Kevin Bents Situation. Tune in to discover the thoughts behind my musical decisions, my preparation process, and how I approached conveying emotional expression through my performance.
00:00 Introduction to Episode 25
00:03 Exploring Universal Audio's DelVerb Pedal
00:41 Recording Gigs and Self-Reflection
02:12 Guitar Solo Analysis
04:24 The Importance of Emotional Connection in Music
05:32 The Art of Improvisation
10:46 The Role of Tone in Musical Expression
14:14 Universal Audio Delverb Pedal Review
29:58 Exploring Different Sounds with Delverb
54:49 Conclusion and Contact Information
Gear used in this episode:
Universal Audio Del-Verb
Ampete 88S amp switcher
Seeker Electric Effects Tonebender MKI
Gemini Mercury One Humbuckers
FSC '59 Strat Pickups
Headstrong Lil King
Contact for guitar, bass, drum, recording, composition, synth programming, production lessons
Sunday Nov 05, 2023
Solo Dallas Storm Pedal: The Secret Ingredient to Classic Guitar Tones
Sunday Nov 05, 2023
Sunday Nov 05, 2023
In Episode 24 of Anatomy of Tone, I delve into the hidden gem responsible for the iconic "Back in Black" tone of Angus Young and others. The Schaffer Vega Diversity System, originally designed as the first wireless unit for guitarists, evolved into a pivotal tool for tone enhancement. The Schaffer Vega sound remained elusive and shrouded in mystery for many decades. However, thanks to Fil Olivieri's relentless research and collaboration with Ken Schaffer (the original designer), a modern incarnation of the original Schaffer Vega has emerged sans the wireless aspect.
We now have at our disposal a pedal version of the Schaffer Vega sound, known as the Solo Dallas Storm, and I'll be embarking on some exciting experiments with it.
Additionally, I'll discuss Elaine Gould's invaluable reference book, "Behind Bars," which provides comprehensive insights into music notation.
For those eager to explore the gear I used in this podcast, you can find further information through the following links:
Ampete Amp Switcher
Headstrong Lil' King Reverb
Marshall SV20H
Universal Audio Del-Verb
Purple Audio MC77
Vick Audio '73 Rams Head
Retro Sonic Chorus
FSC KB-1
Gemini Mercury 1 Humbuckers
FSC '59 Strat Pickups
Monday Oct 30, 2023
Interview with music therapist Sophie Woods
Monday Oct 30, 2023
Monday Oct 30, 2023
In this week's podcast, we talk about the healing value of music and its use in the mental health profession. Music therapist Sophie Woods came into the studio to discuss how she implements music into her therapy sessions, how different parts of the brain work, and the need to allow more people access to music therapy.
Sunday Oct 22, 2023
Effectrode Phaseomatic Tube Phaser and Music Biz Etiquette
Sunday Oct 22, 2023
Sunday Oct 22, 2023
In this week’s podcast, I touch on etiquette for sessions, rehearsals, and gigs and the need to set good boundaries. I also deeply explore the sounds that can be created by using the Effectrode Phaseomatic, which uses vacuum tubes and photocells to create rich, lush vibrato and swirling phase-chorused effects with amazing presence and clarity.
I use the Phaseomatic with diverse sources such as:
Guitar:
paired with an SG, Solo Dallas Storm, and Marshall Plexi.
paired with a Guild Starfire III, Headstrong Lil King
guitars recorded using the Ampete 88S amp switcher, Universal Audio OX, Purple Audio MC77, API 312 Mic Preamps, and Universal Audio Apollo
Bass:
paired with a P Bass and Ampeg V78
paired with a Warwick FMR 5 string
Mellotron:
paired with a Surfy Bear Metal
Synth:
paired with a Sequential Circuits Prophet 10, Chase Bliss CXM 1978, Seeker electric Effects MKI
Friday Oct 13, 2023
Friday Oct 13, 2023
This week, I talk about overcoming distractions on gigs and remembering the material. I give tips on preparing so you can maintain focus on a gig. There are ways you can practice to emulate stage conditions. I also provide tips on sitting in with musicians on a gig.
Composers in the classical realm are masters of development, reusing, and reimagining parts. Techniques such as retrograde, inversion, augmentation, and diminution can also be helpful to songwriters in rock and pop genres. I touch on the subject to get you started in exploring these techniques.
Monday Oct 09, 2023
Interview with composer, orchestrator, and educator Douglas Gibson
Monday Oct 09, 2023
Monday Oct 09, 2023
This week, I interviewed Douglas Gibson, one of my most influential teachers/mentors, about his life. Doug is an award-winning composer, orchestrator, and educator with a deep understanding of music. Doug talks about his pathway to knowledge and musical interests, as well as his experience working in the business.
Sunday Oct 01, 2023
Interview with Henry Amps JP Henry
Sunday Oct 01, 2023
Sunday Oct 01, 2023
In episode 19 of Anatomy of Tone, I sit down to talk to the creative mind behind Henry Amps. JP Henry discusses his roots and philosophy of making guitar amps. I've been a long-time fan of Henry amps. I toured with two Henry amps for years and have used them in studios with fantastic results.
Sunday Sep 24, 2023
Sunday Sep 24, 2023
In episode 18 of Anatomy of Tone, I will discuss using the Strymon Iridium amp, cab modeler, and in-ear monitoring (IEM) for gigs and rehearsals.
There are several reasons why players may not be able to use an amp on gigs in today's performance and studio world. There are also times when we need to hear ourselves more. But, with no monitors, this can be an issue when our volume is already loud for the room we’re playing.
I provide some tips for these situations and look at where live sound is going.
Gear discussed or used in this podcast:
Strymon Iridium
Rolls PM55P Personal Monitor
Seeker Electric Effects MKI
Analog Man CompRossor
Ampete 88S Amp Switcher
Headstrong Lil King
Victoria 518