The Anthony Pirog Interview

One of the younger modern guitar maestros, Anthony Pirog knows nothing of stylistic limitations—his music is beyond category, embracing not only jazz, but avant-garde and indie rock, free improvisation, electronic sound, and ambient soundscapes.

Pirog has himself established with his work as one-half of the duo Janel & Anthony, the electric jazz improvisational Five Times Surprise, the classic DC-scene twang inspired Music From The Anacostia Delta, and the  exciting trio Messthetics, with Brendan Canty and Joe Lally, the rhythmic section from Fugazi.

His new solo record, Pocket Poem, features the same musicians as 2015’s Palo Colorado Dream: acoustic bassist Michael Formanek and drummer Ches Smith. For this trio record Pirog wanted to layer the compositions with sounds created using modern technology and vintage guitar synthesizers. All of which and more we discuss here.

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Board to Death : Anthony Pirog

As part of the Board to Death series, EarthQuaker Japan interviewed Anthony Pirog about the EarthQuaker pedals he uses and others, while introducing him to some of their new ones. One of the most creative modern guitarists around (he just finished a record with Henry Kaiser), here Pirog demonstrates some insane country chops.

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Introducing: The Messthetics

Congratulations to modern guitarist Anthony Pirog for being lauded in the New York Times. His new band with the rhythm section from the legendary Fugazi recalls Sonny Sharrock, surf music, punk and other influences, while centering them all in a cohesive whole. Look for another interview with Mr. Pirog (as they say in the NYT) soon.

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