Guitarz Forever Blog

Award Winning Recording Artist Vernon Neilly NEWZ --- New Stuff to Know About

2009-12-18T07:05:00.000-08:00

Award Winning Recording Artist Vernon Neilly NEWZ --- New Stuff to Know About

December 9th guest ON THE METAL CRYPT

Posted in Promotion with tags Boosweet, guitar, guitarist, Stevie Wonder,Vernon Neilly on December 9, 2009 by Jerrod Balzer

Today, we’re thrilled to have award-winning guitarist,Vernon Neilly on the show! In addition to playing his brilliant music (we especially love his cover of Stevie Wonder’s “Superstition” It’s hardcore!), we’ll be discussing his company, Boosweet Records, as well some of the recent movies he’s been in. It should be a blast!

http://metalcrypt.wordpress.com/

New Stuff to Know About

Category: Music

I have been getting asked about if I have twitter and yes I do, you can follow me at: twitter.com/vernonneilly and add me at:facebook.com/vernonneilly

Been getting a lot of press lately so check out my new interviews at the follow links!

Ø http://www.cutawayguitarmagazine.com/

Ø http://www.universodorock.com/entrevistas/entrevista.asp?cod=295

Ø http://truefire.com/tftv/index.html?channel=vernonneilly&videofile=&search_query=Vernon+Neilly

The much anticipated exclusive interview with Seymour Duncan and Evan Skopp VP of Business Development and A&R is coming in a couple weeks on my channel at Truefire TV. Amazing to sit down and get firsthand knowledge from a music business legends and pioneers

LINKS:

Official Vernon Neilly Website

http://www.vernonneilly.com

Vernon Neilly is CEO of Indie Record Label Boosweet.com
http://www.boosweet.com

BOOSWEET INDIE - INDIE ARTIST EARN A RECORD DEAL
http://www.boosweetindie.com

BOOSWEET RECORDS BLOG
http://boosweetrecords.blogspot.com

Vernon Neilly MySpace:

http://www.myspace.com/vernonneillyband

Best Regards,

Scott

512.523.8333

ROCK PULSE.COM CD REVIEW - Vernon Neilly & Friends

2009-11-04T05:46:00.000-08:00

Vernon Neilly & Friends : A Tribute to Stevie Wonder

Review by Rob S

In bringing together musicians from three continents for the common cause of paying tribute to soulful music maestro Stevie Wonder, US Jazz guitarist and producer Vernon Neilly has certainly gone farther, both geographically and stylistically in the compilation of this album, than most. Featuring Vernon’s own sweet guitar licks and understated verve, fret-wizard Kiko Loureiro and Greg Howe (whose six-string services have in the past been utilized by Michael Jackson and Justin Timberlake, among others) and a cast of other eminent artists, it would be near impossible to criticize this album for lacking ambition or variety... And as many other projects have found, this approach often brings both great dividends and niggling inconsistencies.

With a track-listing that features many of Stevie Wonder’s best loved tracks, ‘Superstition’, ‘Sir Duke’, ‘For Once in my life’ and so on, the ensemble certainly set themselves a high standard to match, for the most part hitting the mark. I’m far from a die-hard Stevie Wonder Fanatic, but to a relative layman, these renditions bring all the chilled out vibes, funky slap-bass and bright guitar work that one could hope for from a project of this kind, and many tracks put a fresh spin on well worn classics. Bill Hudson and Carlos Zema’s sweeping power metal adaption of ‘Superstition’ will bring a gleeful grin to the faces of many and a grimace to others, but as in all compilations, certain songs may appeal and other may not, and elsewhere Vernon Neilly’s ‘Boogie on Reggae Woman instrumental’ featuring Greg Howe, is a display of passionate guitar work at its most groovy.

Somewhat of an acquired taste, but likely to give open minded listeners a lesson in the less than subtle arts of foot-tapping and air-bass, ‘A Tribute To Stevie Wonder’ is simply a whole lot of fun to listen to... And in my view, that is always a good thing.

Rating Out of 10:

http://www.rockpulse.co.uk/vernonreview.html

Vernon Neilly Interview (#111)

2009-09-30T19:30:00.000-07:00

Vernon Neilly Interview (#111)
2008-12-01
Scott Thomas

This next interview is with a true music legend, Vernon Neilly. As long as Skope has been in existence we have been covering Vernon’s work as a musician and as an entrepreneur. Vernon spends alot of time working on his music and his love of the guitar. When he is not doing that he runs his impressive indie label, Boosweet Records. I wanted to talk with Vernon after finding out about his new tribute album to Stevie Wonder and see what he has been up to lately!

Stoli: Please offer a brief history of Vernon Neilly and your rise in the music industry?

Vernon Neilly: I come from a musical family in Nassau, Bahamas started playing piano at 8 years and became interested in guitars at age 9 when I saw the Beatles “Hard Days Night” movie. Started playing in bands at 14 years making money, started playing with major recording artist at 19, and producing recording artists at 21. Also at this age started working with the late legendary Motown producer Norman Whitfield for his independent label, played with more top artist like Etta James, Johnny “Guitar” Watson, Teena Marie, recording with Warren G, was the guitarist in a major independent label recording group. Started an independent label with a buddy in 1992 and we ran that label for 7 years together, left the label in 1999 to form my own label Boosweet Records, which was one of the first labels in the world to distribute music globally on the internet! I released my first solo CD project in 2000 called “Kaliedescope” a mixture of r&b, rock, pop, funk, and blues. Started to distribute the musical works of other indie artist through my label internationally. In 2003 released my second solo CD “G-Fire” which won a contemporary jazz award, songs from this project ended up being used on TV, and on other compilation discs that included George Benson, Hall and Oates, Lee Ritenour, and other major label artists! Went on my first Brazilian tour and became affiliated with Tagima Guitars, the company that builds my signature series model guitar, went back to Brazil a few months later to perform at Expo Music which is South America’s largest music trade show. Picked up some more major endorsements by companies there Meteoro Amplifiers, and Giannini Guitars and strings, they make my signature acoustic instruments, and my signature series “Power Strings”. 2004 received a call to participate in my first major motion movie “Along Came Polly” with Ben Stiller and Jennifer Aniston. 2005 I released my 3rd solo CD “G-Fire II” that also featured Kevin Chokan musical director of Diana Ross, and George Benson protege Mark Whitfield. This CD yielded a top 10 FMQB AC hit written by Kevin and Vince Hall called “Unconditional Love”, I also won my second consecutive contemporary jazz award for this CD. Songs from the CD were played on MTV’s “Made” program, as well as BET television’s “Jazz Impressions”. “G-Fire II” ended up on the Billboard Top 10 retail charts in it’s genre, which was a milestone accomplishment for me as an independent artist, and for me as an independent label owner. I was called to participate in my second major motion picture release in 2005 called “Starsky and Hutch” starring Ben Stiller and Owen Wilson, I also this year started digital downloading of products from Boosweet Records knowing that this would be the way of the future, so I was way ahead of companies like CD Baby who just recently started offering a digital sales format. I also started to get calls to participate in popular TV shows such as UPN Networks “Girlfriends” and “One ON One”. 2007 I did my first solo tour as an artist in Japan, and did radio and TV interviews during this tour, I was also called to participate in my 3rd major motion picture called “Walk Hard” with funny men John C Reilly and Tim Meadows former cast members of Saturday Night Live, and it was released late December of that year and is currently on DVD, and playing on cable stations internationally. The begging on 2008 I started to put the finishing touches on my recently released 4th solo CD “A Tribute To Stevie Wonder” which features in addition to myself tremendous musicians and producers such as, Greg Howe who has played with Michael Jackson, N-Sync, Enrique Iglesias, and who himself has had a 20 year solo recording career. It also includes Kiko Loureiro from the power progressive rock group “Angra”, Bill Hudson from “Cellador” and currently playing with both “Circle 2 Circle”, and “Power Quest”. Also Grammy Award winning bassist Juan Nelson who is a member of Ben Harpers group, sensational French guitarist “U-Nam”, and other top players and artists from the US, and South America.

Stoli: When you first played the guitar, was it love at first string?

Vernon Neilly: I saw the Beatles playing the guitars in the movie “Hard Days Night” and immediately fell in love with the look and sounds of guitars! Later I saw Jimi Hendrix and heard his music, and that truly sealed the deal. I just love the look of guitars, just like I suppose women love shoes and handbags…..ha ha ha!
Stoli: What gave you the inspiration to put out a tribute to Stevie Wonder?

Vernon Neilly: I have always enjoyed the genius musically, and voice of Stevie, but also I wanted to show how he has been such a big influence around the world on other artist, not just here in the US. I also wanted to do his works from a perspective that had not been done before, and that is by having artists from all different genres interpret his music, so it is an eclectic mix of styles and genres, and one of the reasons why I feel the recording has sold thousands already!

Stoli: What is it about Stevie’s music that you can relate & connect with the most?

Vernon Neilly: His creativity is so broad, and his songs are so timeless, so I truly appreciate that he can write rock, pop, r&b, funk, jazz, reggae, the fact that he can connect with so many people through his music around the world regardless of their musical preference.

Stoli: You have brought along your friends on this album. How did you decide who you wanted to have play on this album?

Vernon Neilly: Well for example Greg Howe is an amazing guitar player with a unique style that loves Stevie’s music also. He is very well known in the guitar world, and from playing with Michael Jackson, and N-Sync with Justin Timberlake. I knew that his presence, love and appreciation for Stevie’s music would help the project shine. Kiko Loureiro from the Brazilian power rock group “Angra” is also a tremendous guitar player, but because he is Brazilian it brings a different perspective to the project musically. U-Nam is from France and is also a tremendous guitar player and producer, and just by virtue of him being from France, again it brings a different perspective to the project. Bill Hudson from “Cellador”, “Power” is a shred master who did an amazing arrangement of “Superstition” in a heavy metal format. Having a Grammy winning bassist on your project like Juan Nelson, is just an incredible thing, he brings that same power and groove to the CD the same way he does with Ben Harper, he just understands the music and what it needs on the low end so well. There are some fantastic vocalists in Fabyan Irving from the US, who sounds somewhat like Stevie, Cris Clark from Brazil, and also former “Outworld” vocalist Carlos Zema, who just gave tremendous performances on the CD in their own unique way! The point was getting this super talent from different places in there world to show how they were influenced by Stevie. I am just very fortunate to have very accomplished and super talented friends who I can call upon.

Stoli: You are offering an awesome deal for fans that order the CD on www.Boosweet.com. Please explain what the people can end up winning?

Vernon Neilly: Well I always like giving something back to my fans, and new fans who support me and my music, so when a copy of the CD is purchased directly from the label website at Boosweet.com only, they are automatically entered into a drawing to win a brand new, custom hand made guitar from my personal guitar collection that is signed by the guys on the CD. The guitar itself is worth $1,500.00, but the signatures of these elite artist make the instrument a collectors item and truly priceless. The winner will also win some other swag from my merchandise collection.

Stoli: Has Stevie heard the album and if so what did he think about the music & the tribute to him?

Vernon Neilly: A copy of the CD was given to a good friend of mine who has played with Stevie for years to give to him to take a listen, but I do not know if he has had the time to listen yet because he has been touring this year, but of course I would love to know what he thinks about it, because it’s different.

Stoli: You are an incredibly busy musician and entrepreneur. Where have you been traveling lately and for what events have you played outside the US?

Vernon Neilly: Up to the moment of this interview, I have been to Brazil 2 times in the last couple months to do concerts and TV show appearances, like the “Programa Do Jo” which is the largest TV talk program in Brazil on it’s largest network Globo, seen by more than 200 million Brazilians. I have also been doing a few select dates here in the US. Japan and Australia are on the agenda for 2009 after the Namm Show 2009 where Bill Hudson, Carlos Zema, and I will be performing together.

Stoli: You are the man behind your label Boosweet Records. What made you decide to make your own way and start your own label?

Vernon Neilly: Honestly, because I have some incredibly talented friends who could not get their music out to the masses that deserved to have their music heard. It has also provided the vehicle to release my own solo projects internationally. My label is nationally retail distributed in the US and Canada, and we also control our own digital distribution internationally.

Stoli: From a musicians standpoint what was the advantages to starting up your own label?

Vernon Neilly: To have total creative control over what I release as a label. No one can dictate to me what I can include or not include on a project. For example the current “Stevie Tribute” project would never been able to be released through a major, it’s too diverse, they would not know how to market and promote it because it does not fit into their little nice neat classifications of music, but we have been doing it for a decade now, so at Boosweet we know how to market eclectic things because we have experience at doing it and being successful at it. To be able to work with unique artist and be able to give them the freedom to be creative, and express themselves artistically, without having to lock them down in one category. I have been blessed with a good ear for music and for knowing what will sell, also my history in working in radio as an air personality helps also, because it helps you to recognize music that will have an appeal to others.

Stoli: How do you choose what artists to have on Boosweet and are you currently seeking fresh talent?

Vernon Neilly: I look for artists who have a fresh approach, and unique sound to their music regardless of genre. We are always looking for talented hardworking aspiring artists who understand that this is a business, not music camp!

We have just developed a new program that will launch the first part of 2009 called Boosweet Indie, where a couple groups, solo artists a year can earn a record deal with Boosweet Records. It is a new an revolutionary approach to finding talent and giving them a shot. For those who read this interview and are interested in finding out more about this program, they can email the label at promodept@boosweet.com.

Stoli: In closing please explain to my readers why they should check out the new CD “A Tribute To Stevie Wonder” and what we can look forward to from Boosweet Records?

Vernon Neilly: Concerning the CD and why people should get the CD, simply because they have never heard the musical works of Stevie Wonder done in the way this way before, it’s amazing! We have sold out on amazon.com several times already, the distributor has sold out already and ordering more, so this is just an affirmation that we did it in a way that people are really liking!

I just kind of touched on it, the Boosweet Indie program, it’s going to give that shot to artist who are not afraid to work for it. A lot of independent artist hit a ceiling and do not know why they cannot get past a certain level on their own. Well their is a reason and most of it is financial, and having access to certain things that make certain wheels turn is another!

Stoli: Thank you Vernon!

Vernon Neilly: Skope it’s always a pleasure for me to speak to you, and the readers of your magazine.

www.boosweet.com

Exclusive Interview Vernon Neilly - TODAY - August 18, 2009

2009-08-18T02:30:00.000-07:00

Exclusive Interview Vernon Neilly - TODAY - August 18, 2009
Current mood: blissful

Exclusive Interview Vernon Neilly 3pm EST

Date/Time: Tuesday August 18, 2009

Time: 3:00pm - 3:30pm EST

The Coast Radio 98.7 FM WCZT in NJ

http://www.987thecoast.com/

Cashbox Magazine CD Review - Vernon Neilly and Friends a “Tribute to Stevie Wonder”.

2009-08-11T14:46:00.000-07:00

ROCK AND CONTEMPORARY Reviewed 08-05-09

Vernon Neilly & Friends

Vernon Neilly and Friends a “Tribute to Stevie Wonder”.

Smoothie Award winning jazz guitarist Vernon Neilly’s new CD - featuring the Legendary Hit Maker Stevie Wonder’s music - is chocked full of Wonder’s hit songs. The album reeks of Pure Class. Vernon has out done himself with the arrangements, recording, and engineering of this sweet music. The record label owner and producer has taken those celebrated hits and has made them flawlessly and collectively all his own.

The CD is Vernon ’s fourth on his Boosweet Records. The diversity the album gives ranges from Jazz, Fusion, Pop to Rock. Having Greg Howe and Kiko Loureiro (progressive guitarists) on board has definitely set the bar for the other musicians involved. Other instrumentalists featured on the album with Neilly include U-Nam, Juan Nelson, Michael Paulo and Miguel Mega (Brazilian guitarist) and they also don't hesitate to also step out into the lime light to bring us some serious tunes.

From this new breed of illustrious artist you will hear a lot of Stevie’s favorite hits: Stevie Wonder’s “Boogie on Reggae Woman” recorded twice as Rock and Urban/Pop; “I Wish,” which has a Jazz-Fusion sound. What you don’t hear in these songs is musicians stepping all over themselves trying to make a square peg fit into a round hole. The song “Superstition” has a Heavy Rock sound and vocals; “Sir Duke” has a Pop sound; “Isn’t She Lovely” has two versions - Urban/Pop and Smooth Jazz; “I Was Made To Love You,” the first single off the album has a smooth Jazz feel as well; “Don’t You Worry about a Thing,” and “For Once in My Life” which has a Pop vibe and vocals. The singers did a wonderful job nailing Stevie Wonder’s vocal vibe.

"I give this wonderfully arranged and played cd a perfect "10" for a being a tribute album... I think this CD will be up for some sort of award in the near future... I bank my money on it!"

Scott Thomas

Vernon Neilly & Friends CD REVIEW

2009-08-01T19:26:00.000-07:00

Aug 1, 2009 8:40 PM

Subject:

Vernon Neilly & Friends CD REVIEW

http://www.rockeyez.com/reviews/cd/vern-neilly/rev-a-tribute-to-stevie-wonder-sr.html

Body:

Vernon Neilly & Friends CD REVIEW
Current mood: artistic
Category: Blogging
Rating:

Vernon Neilly & Friends
A Tribute to Stevie Wonder
Indy
2008
Blues/Jazz/Rock
Stephanie Rademacher
www.vernonneilly.com
www.myspace.com/vernonneillyband
_______________________________________

The first thing I would like to say is that I don't like Tribute CD's. If I want to hear an artist, I like listening to the original. Some tribute CD's sound exactly like the original, with the same arrangements and the artists doing their best to impersonate the original singer…Yuk! While on some tribute CD's the performing artist style dominates the Tribute CD so much that the artist they are honoring is unrecognizable. That said this is an awesome CD! It has the perfect balance of originality in the arrangements but enough of the original artist shines through to truly be called a TRIBUTE CD. Or maybe I like it so much because I just love Stevie Wonder! I was raised with his music and this CD has some of my favorite songs included.

One of the best things about this CD is there is a lot of instrumentals I guess you would call it instrumentals it actually sounds like the guitars are singing, which to me is a lot different than a guitar solo. My favorite songs are the instrumentals on this endeavor. They are sometimes the best “vocalists” on the CD.

The first song to grace my ears was “Boogie On Reggae Woman”. This instrumental was awesome and I think the only way it wouldn’t get someone listening to it to move was if they were dead. It was a great way to start of the CD because it makes you want to listen to more of the gems that grace this production. If there was ever a song that made the guitar solo sound like vocals, this is the one. Greg Howe put in an awesome piece of work. This version of the Stevie Wonder classic does NOT need words to get the message, the feeling or the song across. I like it better than the original!

Next up is “I Wish”, and we have the same thing going on here. Guitarist Kiko Laureiro is the best vocalist I never heard sing! The artists that comprise this CD have to be some of the best at expressing their art through their music. The ‘vocals’ on this piece are superb. Kiko keep up the great work! I am still wondering how I can hear the words so vividly without any actual vocals.

Maybe it’s just the spirit of the song and the artist.

Really, if you love music, you will love this CD.

The third song to hit the eardrums is “Superstition”, which is one of my favorites by Stevie Wonder. That said, this was one of my least favorites on the CD. Although I like Carlos Zema’s vocals I wasn’t as conducive to listening to this song. The first thing that turned me away was the beginning. I thought they were doing “Play That Funky Music White Boy” as I listened in my car and all I could think … “that isn’t a Stevie Wonder song”. I did like the screams that Carlosadded. I think they were the saving grace of this song. Unlike the first two songs, this one was barely recognizable to the original. If it weren’t for Zema’s vocals, I wouldn’t have known what it was.

The next up is “Sir Duke,” and the second track to have actual vocals. The vocalist fit the music but my favorite part was the guitar solo near the end by Miguel Mega. I think there wouldn’t have been much lost if it was all instrumental. The guitarists on this CD are so talented and expressive that they don’t need vocalists. Taking nothing away from singer Christopher Clark, I would love to hear him in other projects as he has his own style that transcends the commerciality of the music today. It’s very refreshing to hear someone that is just expressive and not trying to be another copy of someone else.

Next up is “Isn’t She Lovely”, with Fabyan Irving acing us with his vocals. Now, he added to this track. His soul came through on this one and similar to the first two songs, I just felt it. Unlike the last couple songs, I think “Isn’t She Lovely” was definitely improved by the vocals of Irving.
Now here is a novelty on, “I Was Made to Love her,” the vocalist was a back up to the guitar. The guitarist was the lead vocalist! This arrangement was absolutely awesome... totally cool. U-Nam totally rocked this recording. I think this one is better than the original. I wonder if he has any more stuff out there because I want to hear it!

Kiko delivers another punch with his masterful guitar work on “Don’t You Worry ‘Bout a Thing”. Whatever band this man plays in will have to just say goodbye to their lead singer because they definitely won’t need one once Kiko joins the band!

“For Once in My Life,” all I can do is adlib a famous quote by W.C. Fields… vocalists shouldn’t work with Miguel Mega, for he will make you obsolete! I can’t believe how many talented guitarists there are on this CD. Each with their own style that brings a different dimension toStevie Wonder classics and on this CD they definitely do tribute to Stevie with the powerful songs he composed and performed. They also show how truly great work transcends time and genres. These artists are totally awesome and talented and I can’t wait to hear more of their stuff. I reiterate if you love great music, you must pick up this CD.

http://www.rockeyez.com/reviews/cd/vern-neilly/rev-a-tribute-to-stevie-wonder-sr.html
________________________________________

Band Lineup:

Vernon Neilly – Vocals, Guitar, Guitar Synthesizer, – (Isn’t she Lovely, Boogie on Reggae Woman)

Greg Howe –Guitar – (Boogie on Reggae Woman)

Kiko Laureiro – Guitar – (I Wish, Don't Your Worry 'Bout A Thing)

Bill Hudson – Guitar – (Superstition)

Carlos Zema – Vocals - (Superstition)

Miguel Mega– Guitar – (Sir Duke, For Once in My Life)

Christopher Clark – Vocals – (Sir Duke, For Once in My Life)

Fabyan Irving – Vocals – (Isn't she Lovely)

U-Nam – Guitars, Bass, SynthBass, Horn Section Percussions, (I Was Made To Love Her)

Juan Nelson– Bass – (Isn't she Lovely, Boogie on Reggae Woman)

Norman Weatherley – Keyboards- (Isn't she Lovely, Boogie on Reggae Woman)

Felipe Costa – Drums – (Isn't she Lovely, Boogie on Reggae Woman, Sir Duke, For Once in My Life)

Michael Paulo – Sax Fills and Solo – (Isn't she Lovely)

Yaniel Matos – Piano - (I Wish, Don't Your Worry 'Bout A Thing)

Cuca Teixeria – Drums – (I Wish, Don't Your Worry 'Bout A Thing)

Carlinyhos Noroha – Bass – (I Wish, Don't Your Worry 'Bout A Thing)

Glécio Nascimento – Bass – (Sir Duke, For Once in My Life)

Fábio Lizzi – Keyboards – (Sir Duke, For Once in My Life)

Mauricio Fernandes – Horn Section – (Sir Duke, For Once in My Life)

Adam Sagan – Drums – (Superstition)

Bobby Williamson – Keyboards (Superstition)

Fernando Giovannetti – Bass – (Superstition)

Frank Sithon – Lead & Background Vocals Keyboards - (I Was Made To Love Her)

Denis Benarrosh - live tambourine- (I Was Made to Love Her)

Michael White – Drums - (I Was Made To Love Her)

Track Listing:

Boogie on Reggae Woman (Instrumental)
I Wish
Superstition
Sir Duke
Isn’t She Lovely
I Was Made To Love You
Don’t You Worry ‘Bout a Thing
For Once in My Life
Boogie on Reggae Woman (Vocal Version)
Isn’t She Lovely (Instrumental)

$5 CD Specials at Boosweet Records...

2009-07-21T20:02:00.000-07:00

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Vernon Neillypresents an all-star cast set to the
timeless tunes of icon Stevie Wonder.
Special guest include: Guitarist Greg Howe,
Bassist Juan Nelson, #1 Progressive guitarist
Kiko Loureiro, Smooth Jazz mainstays U-Nam
andMichael Paulo.

http://www.boosweet.com/

Getting More "Oomph" from Your EMGs

2008-08-24T04:46:00.000-07:00

The simple $.79 mod that may save you from buying new pickups

I find it interesting that EMG's have seemingly fallen out of favor with most modern bassists. I've been using them for more than 10 years, and with the exception of my killer Hoyt fretless 6 (which has a Lane Poor and piezos) all of my basses have had them. And I'm very happy about that, and have no plans to change them...

Please Read On http://home.comcast.net/~mgollihur/emgmod.html

KTS - Titanium Guitar and Bass Parts

2008-04-08T08:42:00.000-07:00

KTS - Titanium Guitar and Bass Parts

KTS has a long history of crafting Titanium parts for other products such as watch bands, eyeglass frames, medical equipment and other precision machineries. We took all of our knowledge regarding titanium and our master builder has put in so much effort and time, which would probably equal the effort of creating an entire guitar, into these just small parts. The results were amazing: Titanium produced an overwhelming longer sustain, clearer tone, more tonal response to picking, and other excellent sound qualities which far exceeded our predictions. KTS's ultimate goal is that, with help of the Titanium Products, every guitar player will be able to bring out the truest and least distorted sound, which their guitars inherently have. As a result, it will greatly enhance their joys and musical experiences, which will then take them to the higher state of creativity.

Here's what you can achieve with KTS Titanium Saddles and Bridges: - Increased sensitivity and stability are very apparent - Vibration and sustain have been taken to the limit - The notes are more focused and the intonation is purer - The harshness was taken away and became clear - String-to-string definition and clarity improved dramatically.

"I am SO sick of digging out cracked block with a screwdriver! It sounds like your Ti-Block is something that is going to make me happy for years! Thank you so much!" - Reb Beach

FACT:
Q: Can you please tell me which Ti saddles will fit my American Gibson Les Paul Standard. It is a normal 2003 model with the Tune-O-Matic bridge?

A: There are two kinds of Gibson bridges. One is the Vintage ABR-1, and the other is the Nashville. Please refer to the photos and check your bridge. If your bridge is ABR-1, our PR-02 will fit it. If your bridge is Nashville, our PR-06 will fit it.

Jennifer Batten and Chris Juergensen at the KTS booth - KTS parts users Jennifer Batten and Chris Juergensen make an appearance at KTS' booth at the 2008 NAMM show. There was a lot of interest in KTS this year at the NAMM show as titanium has been gaining popularity. Thanks to everyone who came by and we hope to see you again very soon.

"These Titanium bridge pieces are the BOMB!! Try them for yourself" - Jennifer Batten

FACT:

Q: Can you tell me which type of your Strat saddles I would need to replace the ones on my Eric Clapton Strat? (American Vintage Synchronized Tremolo)

A: Our "PR-11" will fit your Clapton Strat.

Recap:

By installing KTS Titanium Saddles:

You will enjoy unparalleled durability, an exotic appearance, and best of all, a dramatically improved sound due to titanium's acoustically superior characteristics.

Here are some of the key benefits:

Increased sensitivity and stability
Maximized vibration and sustain
Much more focused notes and purer intonation
Less harshness and improved tonality
Dramatically improved string-to-string definition and clarity

Click Here and let our wonderful Staff take care of all your Guitar accessory needs.

Guitar Virtuoso Prashant Aswani Doing ESP Clinics at So Cal Sam Ash Stores

2007-10-20T20:49:00.000-07:00

Guitar Virtuoso Prashant Aswani Doing ESP Clinics at So Cal Sam Ash Stores

Hey LA area ESP fans: here's a FREE treat for you in November and December. Guitarist Prashant Aswani will be hitting four So Cal Sam Ash stores to blow your mind with his extraordinary chops. Prashant, who attended Berklee College of Music and later taught at Musician Institute's GIT program, is an outstanding player who really knows how to get the most from his ESP guitars, including his Viper, his Xtone Paramount, and others. Not only will you get treated to his extraordinary chops, but you'll learn plenty from this guitar master's approach to his signal chain (amps, effects, etc.), recording, and production. And, as we said, it's all free.

All clinics are first-come, first-served. Arrive early for a good view of Prashant doing his thing!

Wednesday 11/7/07, 8:00 PM: Sam Ash Torrance
Wednesday 11/14/07, 8:00 PM: Sam Ash Canoga Park
Wednesday 12/5/07, 8:00 PM: Sam Ash Puente Hills
Wednesday 12/12/07, 8:00 PM: Sam Ash Cerritos

Watch Prashant demonstrate the Xtone series guitars!
http://www.espguitars.com/esptv/prashant.html

The long-awaited debut CD The Screamin’ Lords ‘Long Live Me’ – Brannick Records

2007-10-06T08:29:00.000-07:00

"This CD screams of pure rock at its finest!"

This album JUST ROCKS PERIOD ... Guitar-oriented style, in the genre of AC/DC and Judas Priest. Ballsy, but bluesy, this CD screams of pure rock at its finest.

The Screamin Lords are a new and explosive rock band out of L.A. What's more they are fully loaded with meaty morsels of screamin’ metal too. This mob is busting at the seams with extremely talented, professionally well established musicians. Simply put, Bands like this have been missing from the hard rock music scene for a long time.

Recommended if you like: Dokken, Scorpions, Deep Purple
Click here to Go To CD Baby .com

http://cdbaby.com/cd/screaminlords

***Check out this awesome line-up:***
Jose Ferro, Bassist - Dustin Boyer, Guitar - Jason Gile, Guitar - Chris Collier, Drummer

“This album brings the past and the future together in one sweeping moment, leaving you breathless and gasping for air. That's when you realize that "You are in the NOW! So Rock on…” - Scott Thomas (Editor Guitarz Forever .com)

Jose Ferro founder of the Screamin’ Lords pulls out all the stops on this rock masterpiece. “The concept for the band was to have a core group of top musicians” says Jose. The rock ace took his core of top notch musicians and his personal favorite guest artist on a true hard rock odyssey. In return we get a true musical gem.

Guest Musician’s

Kelly Keeling, Lead Vocals * Robin McAuley, Lead Vocals * George Lynch, Lead Guitar *

Chris Poland, Lead Guitar * Gus G., Lead Guitar * Loren Molinare, RhythmGuitar

The CD ‘Long Live Me’ was mixed by MUDROCK (Godsmack, Avenge, Sevenfold)

Rules of Engagement Learning to Rock with Pentatonics pt 1

2007-05-08T17:58:00.000-07:00

Rules of Engagement Learning to Rock with Pentatonics (4 parts )- By Scott Allen

One of the most frustrating things I remember from my early days of playing guitar was where to begin to learn to play like my heroes. If you pick up any book on rock lead guitar, they will show you lots of scale patterns, but little or nothing on what to do with them. Don’t get me wrong, it really is important to learn your scales. Mastering your basic Pentatonic scales is the first step in the long, long, long, (did I mention it was long) process of taming this six string beast we all love. The aim of this article, however, is to give you insight not only into the patterns themselves, but some really great and universal ways to apply them. But let’s start at the beginning....

Read On:
http://www.guitarz-for-ever.com/learning-to-rock-with-pentatonics-pt-1.html

Exploring Your Own Imagination

2007-02-10T12:46:00.000-08:00

Exploring Your Own Imagination by Justin Fox

Fear. This is the number one factor that dilutes a good player's studio performance. You get to the studio, you set up, the track rolls and all of the sudden your fifteen years old again. It happens to me every time. I don't know why but even now at twenty one I feel like I have some guitar odyssey to burn down onto wax, that is something that should come in due time. The most important task at hand is making sure that your playing caters to the song at hand. In the long run listeners will appreciate a tasty four bar solo than a twenty four bar noodle fest. Not to say that some songs shouldn't have a twenty four bar noodle fest, they are perfectly welcome on a song that calls for that. And if you are not live tracking and you feel lonely out in the studio, ask the engineer if you could record in the mixing room with him and the band. It is much more like playing live and can be very relaxing, for me that is how I get my best studio performances. So, with all that being said lets get to the production.

Read On...
Exploring Your Own Imagination

Album Review - Prashant Aswani Revelation Fully Loaded

2007-02-03T13:38:00.000-08:00

Riffmaster’s album review of Prashant Aswani’s New Album - Revelation: Fully Loaded.

I was on MySpace a few months ago and came across this artist / musician / guitarist Prashant Aswani. I think I was checking out Steve Vai’s page or Santriani’s page on Myspace and clicked on Prashant’s picture on the message board. His music loaded and man was I floored! Why haven’t I heard of this guy? I was kind of ticked at myself that I hadn’t heard of him before now! “Prashant is the thinkin’ man’s guitarist!” His arrangements are definitely mind expanding. As for the guitar playing…. If you like Steve Vai, Joe Satriani, Jeff Beck, Eric Johnson, Mike Stern, Al Dimeola, then this is the music for you...

Read On... Album Review - Prashant Aswani Revelation Fully Loaded

Song writing & writers block

2007-01-26T20:02:00.000-08:00

When it comes to song writing, the most common frustration for musicians is writers block. Every musician at some stage has suffered from it and no matter what they do, they simply are stuck.

So how can you overcome it?

There are various ways you can beat writers block. One is to read about how other song writers or musicians beat their writers block. The best advice you can get is from experienced songwriters. Take Brian May of Queen, when he gets stuck on a song he swaps his guitar for a piano....

Read On... Song writing & writers block

Guitarist You May Learn More If You Listen

2007-01-25T18:06:00.000-08:00

Do you hear what I hear?

Some time ago, a student of mine handed me a CD of a current progressive metal band and asked if I would teach him a song from it on the guitar. I took the CD from him, put it into my stereo and played about the first twenty seconds of the track. I paused the song, and proceeded to detune my low E string to D. Then I began to play the opening riff to the song. He looked at me in question, shaking his head with a smirk on his face, and said "I don't get it!" "How is it that you know to tune down and than play it without seeing how it is played, or without sheet music?"

Read On...

Guitarist You May Learn More If You Listen

2007, Van Halen Eruption Guitar Lesson

2007-01-21T11:21:00.000-08:00

Eddie Van Halen used an MXR Phase 90 when recording the guitar solo for "Eruption". Eddie also used a Univox EC-80 echo box, with a different motor in it, in order for it to "go real low and delay much slower". Listen for the effect of the Univox at the ending descending growl of "Eruption".

Apparently, the recording of "Eruption" happened spontaneously... it wasn't even supposed to be a track on the album. Eddie Valen Halen was warming up at the recording studio early one day, when producer Ted Templeman overheard the guitarist. Templeman loved what he heard, and demanded that they record the solo. Eddie quickly recorded one take of "Eruption", and they ended up putting it on the album. Says Eddie: "I didn't even play it right.

There's a mistake at the top end of it. To this day, whenever I hear it I always think, "Man, I could've played it better."

Riffmaster

Van Halen's Eruption

Guitar Players and Endorsements

2007-01-20T19:39:00.000-08:00

Guitar Players and Endorsements

I was surfing the web the other day and came across a guitarist name Dave Martone. I was over at GuitarHoo.com checking out their Guitarist Section (again). I saw his name and went over to Dave's web-site. Cool... the music starts smartly and you instantly realize this guy is good! Besides, I like black backgrounds with evil growls of guitar and drumz hummin' through my computer speakers. He's all about guitar this guy...

Guitar Player and Endorsements