The Rise of Baxty: Is This Young Guitarist the Next Shred Icon?
when it comes to the finest alternate pickers in the guitar world, legends like John Petrucci, Paul Gilbert, Al Di Meola, Jason Becker, Chris Impellitteri, and Shawn Lane are frequently enough at the forefront of discussions among musicians.
These virtuosos have set an almost unattainable standard with their exceptional blend of precision, agility, and mastery, often sounding as if they hail from another realm entirely.
Meet Baxty: The Prodigy from Chile
Among the emerging talents, one name stands out: 26-year-old Bastian Martinez, known in the digital realm as Baxty. This Chilean guitarist is rapidly gaining recognition and could easily be mentioned alongside the greats.
Baxty has already secured partnerships with notable brands such as Neural DSP, Jim Dunlop, and Ernie Ball. Recently, he unveiled his first signature guitar model with Kiesel and is currently finalizing a debut album featuring renowned artists like Joe Satriani.
A rapid glance at social media reveals endorsements from guitar luminaries like Tosin Abasi, Misha Mansoor, and Rick Graham, all praising Baxty’s remarkable talent. His invitation to teach at John Petrucci’s Guitar Universe camp last year further solidifies his status in the guitar community.
A Musical Legacy
It seems almost destined that Baxty would take up the guitar, given that both his father and grandfather were musicians. By the age of six, he was already immersed in the sounds of Ozzy Osbourne, Symphony X, and Yngwie Malmsteen.
His greatest inspiration came from the G3: Live in Tokyo DVD, which he watched repeatedly, captivated by the brilliance of Joe Satriani, John Petrucci, and Steve Vai-three guitarists who each possess a unique, almost magical touch.
“I was mesmerized by how they made their guitars sing,” Baxty recalls from his home studio. “Steve had astounding whammy tricks, Joe had a powerful melodic voice, and John pushed the technical boundaries, which motivated me to practice harder.”
“I admire how Fredrik Åkesson from Opeth plays; his lines are filled with emotion and intensity, especially in his note choices and bends.”
Influences and Inspirations
“Aside from those legends, who else has inspired you?”
“At 15, I discovered guthrie Govan on YouTube, and it was eye-opening to see how he expanded the instrument’s possibilities. Later, I became a fan of Nick Johnston, who beautifully merges piano and guitar in tracks like Gemini.
“what I find fascinating about him is that he doesn’t just create guitar music. I also appreciate Fredrik Åkesson’s playing style; his lines are rich with emotion and intensity.”
Choosing Kiesel: A Perfect Match
“As a guitarist of your caliber, you could choose any brand for endorsements. Why kiesel?”
“They sent me a guitar in 2024,and I instantly felt it was a perfect fit for my style and comfort. I visited their factory in 2025, where Jeff Kiesel handed me a guitar. I think they were curious to see if this ‘internet guy’ could really play!”
“My father always advised me to stay true to myself. Give me any guitar,and I’ll be content. Playing guitar is my escape; it makes me feel alive.”
Recognition from the Legends
“It must be surreal to have players like Misha Mansoor and Tosin Abasi commend your skills.”
“The first jaw-dropping moment was when Joe Satriani commented on one of my posts in 2022. I was also stunned when Tosin sent me a guitar and began sharing clips of my playing. Getting invited by John Petrucci to Guitar Universe was unbelievable.”
“He and his wife Rena had seen my online masterclasses and thought I would be a great addition. Initially, I thought it was a prank, but seeing my photo on the Guitar Universe website confirmed it.”
“At the camp, I met Chris Broderick, who will be featured on my album.It’s incredible that these guitar legends are taking notice of my work. I’m not sure why, but I’m grateful.”
Collaborating with joe Satriani
“Joe Satriani will also be featured on your album. What can fans expect?”
“I wrote a track that embodies a dream, which felt fitting for Joe, especially considering his 1989 album Flying in a Blue Dream. It’s a dream come true for me.Interestingly, it sounds like what Dream Theater might create with Joe on guitar.”
“This album will blend ambient elements with heavier themes. I love songs that build to a melodic climax. Sometimes, simplicity can be more impactful than technical complexity. While it’s remarkable to alternate-pick intricate lines, if you can’t bend a note, you’re missing a key aspect of musicianship.”
Addressing Criticism
“You perform in real-time in your videos, yet some accuse you of faking it.”
“People often comment that my videos are sped up, but I appreciate it because it means they find my playing impressive. One individual consistently claimed I was a Petrucci clone without my own sound.I’m still on the journey to find my unique voice, but if someone thinks I sound like John Petrucci, I’m okay with that.”
mastering Alternate Picking
“What’s your secret to achieving such rapid alternate picking?”
“I’ve watched some Cracking the Code videos by Troy grady and felt overwhelmed. It’s not like reading a textbook. What I can say is that alternate picking involves a 3D wrist movement rather than just going straight up and down.”
“To increase speed, you need to challenge your body. New techniques may feel awkward at first, but keep pushing through. Identify where you feel tension, slow down, and gradually build back up.It requires patience.”
Exercises for Speed and Precision
“What exercises can help guitarists improve their speed and accuracy?”
“Try playing a sequence that ascends the 16th, 19th, and 22nd frets on the G-string, followed by the 15th fret on the high E string, and then back. Onc you’re agreeable, occasionally incorporate the 19th and 22nd frets on the E string. This exercise effectively combines stretches with fast alternate picking and string skipping.”
