Oz Noy and I go back 20 some years. From the beginning, it was obvious that he was unfettered by the limitations of technique—the guy could play anything from SRV blues to avant sonic explorations. We talk about his new record with Dennis Chambers and Jimmy Haslip, the second Ozone Squeeze record, and much more.
If you are a modern guitarist you need to know about Rainger FX pedals. In the world of effects manufacturers, it sometimes seems that, not only are there too many versions of a tube screamer, but that even with the more modern effects, i.e. glitch, micro-loopers, etc., effects manufacturers are often releasing variations on a theme—not so David Rainger.
At first glance, his pedals can seem like some random gimmick, designed to be willfully different. Further investigation reveals that, for starters, their basic sounds are uniformly terrific: musical, lush, warm—all the usual coveted qualities. It’s just that on top of that Rainger has added functions that demand creativity, often inspired by non-guitar music like hip-hop and synth-based songs. It is a joy to watch his pedals force Mick and Dan into new sonic territory and the palpable joy it brings them. (Check out my review of the Mini Bar here)
I worked for Electro-Harmonix three times. Once in the mid 70s, once in the later 70s, and finally when I moved back to New York from San Francisco in the early 2000s. By the last time, DAWS and plugins were a thing and hardware effect companies were cashing in by licensing plugin versions of their products. I suggested to Mike Matthews that he consider turning some of his classic pedals into plugins. He wasn’t into it at the time but apparently has now decided to put a toe in the water. Starting with his flagship effect, the Big Muff, he has launched a hybrid pedal/plugin concept.
One of the new generation of modern guitar masters interviews an OG. Fender presents Nick Reinhart interviewing and jamming with Thurston Moore of Sonic Youth fame, as well as a performance by Moore’s group. As a bonus, I include the EarthQuaker Devices series Show us Your Junk, featuring Reinhart wittily describing his massive collection of sound generating gear. PS: If you haven’t watched the HBO Max series, Irma Vep, it is worth it just for Moore’s creative score.
Unfortunately not a continuous video but any new Eivind in performance is welcome. Especially interesting because the airline lost his pedals and he had to make do with some borrowed effects. Further proof that the sound is in the mind, heart, and fingers of the player.
