Episodes
Sunday Sep 17, 2023
Sunday Sep 17, 2023
In episode 17 of Anatomy of Tone, I deeply dive into the Tonebender MKI Fuzz Circuit using the Seeker Electric Effects Tonebender MKI. Find out why I love this Tonebender circuit and choose the Seeker Electronics version of the MKI. You can also read a blog I wrote about the Seeker MKI.
I also talk about why music theory teachers shouldn't frame concepts around rules.
Sunday Sep 10, 2023
Episode 16 Interview with Robbie Mangano
Sunday Sep 10, 2023
Sunday Sep 10, 2023
In this week's podcast I start the first of many interviews. I talked with bassist, guitarist, keyboardist, singer, and composer Robbie Mangano. Robbie has played with artists like Sean Lennon, Tom Morello, Ricki Lee Jones, and Banned From Utopia. Robbie has also transcribed for Guitar World Magazine, among many other career highlights.
Hear Robbie discuss his start and share knowledge of his approach to music.
Monday Aug 28, 2023
Effectrode Tube Drive, Audiation, Yearly Practice Planners, Stevie Wonder
Monday Aug 28, 2023
Monday Aug 28, 2023
In episode 15 of Anatomy of Tone, I will discuss the Effectrode Tube Drive and why I consider it the holy grail of overdrive pedals. There is also a discussion on audiation and how it can improve your playing. i use a yearly planner to track my practice routines and progress. Find out why and how I go about it. Lastly, we look at the song "Too High" from Stevie Wonder.
Sunday Aug 20, 2023
Sunday Aug 20, 2023
In this week's podcast, I explore a special fuzz pedal by Speebtone, named the Jerk-U-Later. Do you find yourself staring at your instrument too often during practice? I explain how practicing blindfolded can boost your skills. Additionally, I touch on the idea of purposely avoiding the pursuit of perfection in our music writing, as it can foster growth. Lastly, I delve into a creative technique employed by the Bee Gees in the song "Staying Alive."
Monday Aug 14, 2023
Analog Man Beano Boost, Lookout Cleveland, 5/4 time, Preventing Burnout
Monday Aug 14, 2023
Monday Aug 14, 2023
In Episode 13 of Anatomy of Tone, I discuss the Analog Man Beano Boost Treble Booster. I also highlight some creative part writing in The Band song "Lookout Cleveland."
Practicing odd time signatures can help strengthen your counting and ability to maneuver even in 4/4 time. I'll giver dome exercises to explore this concept. Lastly, I will give advice on how to avoid burnout.
Sunday Aug 06, 2023
Favorite Accessories, Spam Lessons, forms, and Super Freak modes
Sunday Aug 06, 2023
Sunday Aug 06, 2023
In this week's episode I talk about some of my favorite music accessories, including Barefoot Buttons, G7th capo, Sonic Research Strobe Tuner, Gruv Gear Fret Wraps.
I will also discuss the unrealistic claims of some music courses with false promises. And how to spot spammy music content.
There is also a brief conversation about the mixed modes used in the riff on Rick James' classic song "Superfreak."
Lastly, I'll discuss how learning forms for songs can also give you structure for improvised solos.
Sunday Jul 30, 2023
JHS Bonsai, Duane Eddy, Voice Leading, and Serialism
Sunday Jul 30, 2023
Sunday Jul 30, 2023
In this week's Podcast, I dive into the captivating world of music, exploring the JHS Bonsai Tube Screamer pedal and providing a comprehensive overview. As I immerse myself in the sonic journey, I stumble upon an intriguing element in Duane Eddy's "Rebel Rouser," capturing my attention and prompting a discussion.
Among the many musical intricacies explored, I dedicate a segment to unraveling the concept of voice leading. It's a fascinating aspect of music theory that adds depth and coherence to compositions and improvisations.
Moreover, I delve into the realm of compositional techniques and proudly reveal how I harnessed the power of Serialism in a new, original piece. The complexities of this method allow for exciting musical possibilities, and I'm thrilled to shed light on my creative journey with it.
So, whether you're a seasoned musician or just a curious soul seeking musical inspiration, join me in this week's Podcast for a melodious experience. Let's explore the nuances of the JHS Bonsai Tube Screamer, bask in the magic of Duane Eddy's artistry, unravel the wonders of voice leading, and venture into the avant-garde realm of Serialism.
Sunday Jul 23, 2023
Jam Ripple Phaser, Backline Amps and Ochestration
Sunday Jul 23, 2023
Sunday Jul 23, 2023
In Episode 10 of Anatomy of Tone, I will discuss my strategies for dealing with backline amps that may sound like I need to learn better.
I will also discuss how studying orchestration can heighten your production and songwriting skills.
Socially I will take a deep dive with the JAM Pedals Ripple phaser, which is a recreation of the phase 45 circuit but with true bypass switching and a lower noise floor.
Sunday Jul 16, 2023
Beatles Rickenbacker Pickup Tone, Permutations, and Breadcrumb Trail Soloing
Sunday Jul 16, 2023
Sunday Jul 16, 2023
In this week's podcast, I delve into the challenges of achieving the classic "Hard Days Night" Beatles Rickenbacker tone using modern Rickenbacker pickups. I share my personal experience of swapping the pickups in my Rickenbacker 360 12 with hand-wound Gemini Toasters and making wiring adjustments to capture that desired tone.
Furthermore, I explore the concept of permutations and how they can be applied to enhance your composition and soloing skills. Understanding permutations opens up creative possibilities in your musical endeavors.
Lastly, I introduce a technique I've developed called the Breadcrumb technique, which I employ during live improvisations. This technique revolves around the idea of starting and concluding a solo with a predetermined musical motive, ensuring a strong and satisfying beginning and end to the improvisation.
Sunday Jul 09, 2023
Analog Man Sunface BC108, Motives and choosing a DAW
Sunday Jul 09, 2023
Sunday Jul 09, 2023
Learning the language or terminology of music can be helpful when communicating with other musicians. If we all have the same point of reference for a sound or technique, it makes it easier to understand each other.
Every once in a while, I will discuss music terminology to help musicians communicate more effectively at rehearsals, jams, or recording sessions. This week we will discuss the terms motive, sequence, and phrase.
Choosing the right DAW can be confusing to those just getting into recording. Sometimes it's hard to understand your needs and working style until you gain experience.
I'll discuss some DAWs and the subtleties that separate them.
There are two main varieties of Fuzz Face style circuits. Early Fuzz Faces were Germanium until they switched to Silicon.
I will discuss and demonstrate the differences between these two circuits using the Analog Man Sunface BC108. Analog Man is an expert on the Germanium and Silicon Fuzz Face circuits.