From Metal to Melodies: Tosin Abasi's Journey into the Blues – Is a Soulful Album on the Horizon?
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1 year ago
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Tosin Abasi: The Guitar Innovator’s Blues Journey – What’s next?
Tosin Abasi stands out as one of the most influential electric guitar pioneers of the 21st century. He has transformed the landscape of heavy music, not only by launching his Abasi Concepts brand, which redefines ergonomic eight-string guitars, but also through his groundbreaking contributions to progressive metal with Animals As Leaders.
in 2022, Abasi hinted at a potential shift in his musical focus, expressing a desire to explore the blues genre. He invested in virtual lessons from renowned guitarists such as Oz Noy,Josh Smith,and Joe Bonamassa,igniting his passion for this classic style.
Fast forward nearly three years, and fans are still waiting for the blues album he once teased. When we caught up with Abasi at NAMM 2025, we couldn’t resist asking about his musical endeavors, particularly the status of his anticipated blues project.
A New Musical Direction
“This is amusing,” Abasi chuckled when reminded of his blues aspirations. “Ivan [Chopik, COO of Abasi Concepts] is an exceptional blues guitarist, and I realized I had overlooked this genre for too long.With remarkable talents like josh Smith and Eric Gales, I thought, ‘Wow, I’ve really been missing out.’”
“During the pandemic, I had a revelation: ‘I’m diving into the blues,’ and I became deeply invested in it, even promising to create an album.”
Respecting the Blues
Despite his initial enthusiasm, the prospect of releasing a blues album has somewhat diminished for Abasi—not due to a lack of appreciation for the genre, but rather out of respect for its rich heritage.
“I have to honor the art form,” he reflects. “I’m not sure I’ve reached a level where I can truly do it justice. But experimenting with it is definitely enjoyable.”
This update may disappoint fans,especially considering Abasi’s remarkable blues skills. He has shared several clips online showcasing his talent, leaving many eager for more blues-infused performances on his Abasi Concepts Larada guitar.
Focus on Animals As Leaders
For those anxious about new music from Animals As Leaders, there’s no need to worry. While Abasi may not be prioritizing his blues album, he is committed to advancing the next AAL project.
“We’re about to kick off pre-production for a new album,” Abasi confirms. “We have some upcoming tours in Europe,but I aim to dedicate a significant part of this year to writing. Ideally, we’ll have it written and recorded by the end of the year.”
Stay tuned for the full interview with Tosin Abasi,which will be available on the Guitar World website and YouTube channel in the coming weeks.
From Metal to Melodies: Tosin Abasi’s Journey into the Blues – Is a Soulful Album on the Horizon?
From Metal to Melodies: Tosin abasi’s Journey into the Blues – Is a Soulful Album on the Horizon?
The Evolution of Tosin Abasi
Tosin Abasi, renowned for his groundbreaking work in progressive metal with Animals As Leaders, has captivated audiences with his innovative guitar techniques and unique sound. As a pioneer of the eight-string guitar, Abasi has pushed the boundaries of heavy music. However, in recent years, he has expressed a desire to explore the soulful depths of the blues genre.
Blues Influences and Inspirations
Abasi’s journey into the blues began during the pandemic when he sought to expand his musical horizons. He turned to virtual lessons from celebrated blues guitarists such as:
Oz Noy
Josh Smith
Joe Bonamassa
This exploration allowed him to appreciate the intricacies of blues music, a genre rich in emotion and history. Abasi has often mentioned how artists like Eric Gales and Josh Smith have inspired him to delve deeper into this musical style.
The Concept of a Blues Album
In 2022, Tosin Abasi teased the idea of creating a blues album, stating that he had “flirted with the idea” of producing a record that showcases his newfound passion. however, as time has passed, the prospect of this album has become less certain.
Why the Blues Album is on hold
Despite his enthusiasm for the genre, Abasi has expressed reservations about releasing a blues album. He emphasizes the importance of respecting the art form, stating:
“I have to honor the art form. I’m not sure I’ve reached a level where I can truly do it justice.”
This sentiment reflects his deep respect for the blues and the artists who have shaped it over the decades. Abasi’s commitment to authenticity is commendable, as he recognizes the weight of expectations that come with such a project.
Benefits of Exploring the Blues
For musicians like Abasi, exploring different genres can lead to numerous benefits:
Enhanced Creativity: experimenting with blues can inspire new ideas and techniques that can be integrated into other musical styles.
Improved Technique: The blues genre emphasizes expressive playing, which can enhance a guitarist’s overall skill set.
Broadened Audience: Venturing into blues may attract a new fan base, expanding an artist’s reach.
Case Studies: Other Artists Who Transitioned to blues
Many artists have successfully transitioned from rock or metal to blues,showcasing the versatility of the genre. Here are a few notable examples:
Artist
Original Genre
Blues Influence
Joe Bonamassa
Rock
Renowned blues guitarist with multiple Grammy nominations.
Gary clark Jr.
Rock/Funk
Blues-infused rock sound with a modern twist.
Slash
Hard Rock
Incorporated blues elements in his solo work and collaborations.
Frist-Hand Experience: Tosin’s Blues Journey
Abasi has shared clips of his blues playing on social media, showcasing his notable skills and the progress he has made in the genre. These performances highlight his ability to blend technical proficiency with emotional expression, a hallmark of great blues music.
Learning from the Masters
By studying under established blues musicians, Abasi has gained valuable insights into the genre’s nuances. His dedication to learning and growth is evident in his approach to music, as he continually seeks to refine his craft.
Future Projects: What’s Next for tosin Abasi?
While the blues album may be on the back burner, Abasi is not slowing down. He is currently focused on his work with Animals As Leaders, with plans to begin pre-production on a new album soon. He stated:
“We’re about to kick off pre-production for a new album. I want to dedicate a significant part of this year to writing.”
Fans can look forward to new music that showcases Abasi’s signature style while possibly incorporating elements of his blues exploration.
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Conclusion
Tosin Abasi’s journey from metal to blues is a testament to his versatility as a musician. While the prospect of a blues album remains uncertain, his exploration of the genre has undoubtedly enriched his artistry. As he continues to innovate and inspire, fans eagerly await what he will create next.
