Jared James Nichols Unplugged: Inside Dave Grohl's Studio and the Secrets of Gary Moore's Legendary Amp!
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The Legacy of blues Power: A New Generation’s Voice
When guitar enthusiasts hear the term “blues power,” their thoughts often drift back to the iconic sounds of the late Sixties and early Seventies. Pioneers like Albert King and Eric Clapton used this phrase to encapsulate the profound emotional depth and historical importance embedded in their music.
Fast forward to today, and it’s Jared James Nichols who embodies this legacy for a new generation, weaving heartfelt narratives through every note and bend of his guitar strings.
Exploring New Horizons with *Louder Than Fate*
His latest release, *Louder Than Fate*, showcases many of Nichols’ signature elements while also venturing into uncharted sonic territories that blend southern rock with country influences. This album marks a notable evolution in his sound, surprising listeners with its fresh approach.
Notably, part of the album was recorded at Studio 606, the renowned creative space owned by the Foo Fighters. Collaborating with acclaimed producer Jay Ruston, known for his work with artists like Corey Taylor and Anthrax, Nichols was able to harness a wealth of experience and expertise in the studio.
To further enrich the album, Nichols enlisted various external producers and songwriters, strategically avoiding the common pitfalls that many contemporary blues musicians encounter. This collaborative effort has resulted in the most complete and diverse album of his career, taking listeners on a unique musical journey.
Watch the Official Music Video for “Runnin’ Hot”
Insights from Collaborating with Industry Veterans
Reflecting on his experiences working with seasoned writers and producers like Roger Alan Nichols and Skip Black, Nichols shares, “I’ve always felt the need to prove myself. When you’re labeled as a standout player, there’s an expectation to deliver, and people often watch with skepticism.”
He recalls a sentiment expressed by Brad Paisley about guitarists frequently enough crafting songs around solos or riffs.”It’s a tough habit to break. You create a structure and then play it to death. This time, I was surrounded by individuals who had collaborated with some of the greatest names in music, and they were focused on songwriting rather than just showcasing guitar skills.”
“Walking into those sessions shifted my outlook. It was a challenge, but it pushed me to grow alongside more experienced musicians,” he adds.
A Transformative Experience at Studio 606
“Recording at Studio 606 was a game-changer for me. Our drummer played on Taylor Hawkins’ kits, and I was using Dave Grohl’s cabinets, all while working through the legendary Sound City board. The atmosphere was electric, and I felt like I was learning constantly,” Nichols explains.
One key takeaway from this experience was the realization that less gain is often more effective for riffing. “I began to understand that you don’t need as much distortion as you might think to create powerful riffs,” he notes.
Rediscovering Classic Tones: Jared James Nichols’ Musical Journey
During a recent recording session, Jared James Nichols found himself in a moment of revelation. Initially, he had his gain cranked up, thinking it would enhance his sound. Though, when he entered the control room, producer Jay Ruston suggested he turn it off. “Have you got a pedal on?” he asked, prompting Nichols to reconsider his approach.
Although apprehensive at first, Nichols soon discovered that dialing back the gain revealed a more authentic, vintage vibe. “If you listen to the classic tracks from the ’60s and ’70s, those Plexi amps aren’t as saturated as one might assume. The tones are robust and defined, without being overwhelmed by overdrive or reverb,” he reflects.
“At one point, I had to ask myself, ’Can I really do this?’ It felt like I was uncovering a whole new dimension of music that I adore but had never dared to explore.”
Transformative Lessons in Playing Style
One pivotal moment came while working on the track *Looks Like That Felt Good*. the Drop D riff was intentionally kept simple, as Nichols envisioned performing it live alongside a drummer. Producer Roger Alan Nichols frequently interrupted, urging him to avoid sliding into notes. “Sliding can make things sound too slurred and bluesy, but some riffs need to be played cleanly,” he advised, suggesting Nichols eliminate unnecessary vibrato.
initially hesitant, Nichols soon realized the wisdom in this guidance.”You learn that the subtleties frequently enough overlooked can significantly impact your sound. It’s the small stylistic choices that, when acknowledged, elevate your playing,” he notes.
Check Out the Official Music Video for “Pretend”
Exploring New Musical Dimensions
Tracks like *bending Or Breaking*, *Killing Time*, and *Show Me* reveal a different facet of Nichols’ artistry. “Being in a room with musicians who have different influences pushes you to grow.It’s essential to let go of your insecurities as an artist, and I did a lot of that on this album,” he explains.
“I often found myself questioning, ‘Am I capable of this?’ It was about showcasing a side of music I love but had never had the courage to pursue,” he adds.Collaborating with artists from the country genre helped him step outside his comfort zone, leading to a refreshing change in his live performances.”Fans have noticed the shift; they’re saying, ’wow, Jared isn’t just shredding for 80 minutes straight anymore,’” he laughs.
(Image credit: Getty Images)
Balancing Complexity and Simplicity in Solos
Despite the evolution in his sound, Nichols still incorporates elements of his signature style. The opening track, *Let’s Go*, features pentatonic ideas reminiscent of Richie Kotzen. “I’ve always admired Richie’s playing. Touring with him in The Winery Dogs was a highlight, and I remember being blown away by his talent when I first heard him at 20,” he recalls.
“Whenever I tour with legends like Paul Gilbert or Michael Schenker, their licks inevitably find their way into my playing. even John 5,with whom I’ve shared over 100 shows,has influenced my style,” he adds.
Crafting Memorable Solos
When asked about his favorite new solos,Nichols emphasizes the organic nature of his work. “Nothing on this record was forced; it all came from a spontaneous mindset. The solo in *Killing Time* was recorded in one take. I had been listening to the backing track the night before,and it built up in E Minor,which inspired me to hum ideas that felt reminiscent of David Gilmour’s style,” he explains.
“I recorded it using a 1969 Plexi amp with my Klon pedal set to zero gain, cranking the amp’s volume. I love solos that blend composition with improvisation,creating waves of sound that feel both spontaneous and structured,” he shares. “This solo captures that essence, embodying the spirit of ‘Let’s play!’ while still adhering to the song’s changes.”
Watch the Official Music Video for “Killing Time”
Minimalist Gear Choices for Maximum Impact
When it comes to gear, Nichols keeps it straightforward. “My setup isn’t extensive; it mainly consists of a cable and my amps. I used a Plexi and a unique blackstar amp, a one-of-a-kind handwired Series One originally intended for Jeff Beck but never delivered,” he explains. “This amp has a more aggressive tone, akin to an old JCM800.”
He also utilized a Tube Screamer for certain tracks and borrowed an Electro-Harmonix Small Stone phaser for *Runnin’ Hot*,which added depth to the rhythms. His main guitars included Dorothy, his vintage Goldtop from 1952, and a Korina Futura from Gibson for the heavier parts. “I remember working with Joe Bonamassa,who brought his entire rig. I set up my Marshall head, Dorothy, and my Klon, and he simply said, ‘I think you should stick with that,’” Nichols recalls with a chuckle.
Jared James nichols: A Journey from Fan to Guitar Hero
Recently, Jared James Nichols shared a nostalgic photo of himself as a teenager, proudly donning a *Sabbath Bloody Sabbath* shirt while holding his first Les Paul guitar in front of his bedroom Marshall setup. It’s a testament to how far he has come in his musical journey.
“I wouldn’t change a thing about my past,” Nichols reflects. ”Every misstep, every band breakup, and even the moments of depression have shaped my understanding of this path. It all boils down to dedication and hard work. Honestly, I still feel like that kid in the *Sabbath Bloody Sabbath* shirt, clutching my Les Paul in front of my Marshall amp.”
The Road to Success: Overcoming Challenges
For Nichols, the journey to success has not been without its struggles. “If I could put in the effort to reach were I am today, then anyone can,” he asserts. He recalls times when he crashed on friends’ floors, surviving on just $10 a week with no gigs lined up. “I would wander the streets at night, hoping to hear bands playing so I could jump in and jam with them,” he adds.
“It’s easy to feel disheartened. You might not be as fast as you wish or have a massive following online. But it ultimately comes down to your determination.Are you willing to endure the hardships to emerge stronger?” Nichols emphasizes the importance of staying true to oneself and playing the music that resonates with the heart.
Experiencing the Legacy of Gary Moore
In a recent collaboration with Joe Bonamassa,Nichols had the chance to film a video featuring Gary Moore’s 1989 soldano SLO-100 amplifier,which Bonamassa had just acquired. “Joe must have nerves of steel as when we arrived, the amp hadn’t been serviced or even powered on. It was like discovering a classic muscle car and just firing it up,” he recalls, noting that Bonamassa immediately cranked it up with a 1959 Les paul.
“I feel incredibly lucky to be surrounded by such amazing gear and history.”
During the video shoot, they experienced some technical hiccups, with the power cutting out several times. “It felt like we were channeling Gary Moore’s spirit in the room,” Nichols says, reflecting on the eerie yet exhilarating atmosphere. He also filmed a segment using Moore’s JTM45 bluesbreaker, paired with his original Guv’nor pedal. “it was surreal; the power went out four times, and then a torrential rainstorm hit. It was as if something supernatural was happening,” he adds, recalling the chills he felt during the session.
Watch the Episode featuring Gary Moore’s amp
Minimalist Gear Choices for Maximum Impact
When it comes to his gear, Nichols keeps it simple. “My setup isn’t extensive; it mainly consists of a cable and my amps.I used a Plexi and a unique Blackstar amp, a one-of-a-kind handwired Series One originally intended for Jeff Beck but never delivered,” he explains.”This amp has a more aggressive tone, akin to an old JCM800.”
he also utilized a Tube Screamer for certain tracks and borrowed an Electro-Harmonix Small Stone phaser for *Runnin’ Hot*, which added depth to the rhythms. His main guitars included Dorothy, his vintage Goldtop from 1952, and a Korina Futura from Gibson for the heavier parts. “I remember working with Joe Bonamassa, who brought his entire rig. I set up my Marshall head, Dorothy, and my Klon, and he simply said, ‘I think you should stick with that,’” Nichols recalls with a chuckle.
Jared James Nichols Unplugged: Inside Dave Grohl’s Studio and the Secrets of Gary Moore’s Legendary Amp!
Jared James nichols Unplugged: Inside Dave Grohl’s Studio and the Secrets of Gary Moore’s Legendary Amp!
Exploring Dave Grohl’s Studio
Jared James Nichols, a rising star in the rock and blues scene, recently had the opportunity to record at studio 606, the renowned studio owned by Dave grohl of Foo Fighters fame. This iconic space is not just a recording studio; it’s a creative hub where some of the biggest names in music have crafted their sound.
What Makes Studio 606 Special?
State-of-the-Art equipment: Studio 606 is equipped with top-notch recording gear, including vintage microphones and high-end mixing consoles.
Creative Atmosphere: The studio’s design fosters creativity, making it an inspiring place for artists to collaborate and innovate.
Rich History: Many legendary albums have been recorded here, adding to the studio’s mystique and allure.
During his time at Studio 606, Nichols was able to tap into the energy of the space, which he describes as “electric.” He collaborated with producer Jay Ruston, known for his work with artists like Corey Taylor and Anthrax, to create a sound that blends rock and blues seamlessly.
The Influence of Gary Moore’s Amp
One of the highlights of Nichols’ experience was working with Gary Moore’s legendary Soldano SLO-100 amplifier. This amp is renowned for its powerful tone and has been a staple in the gear of many iconic guitarists.
Why Gary moore’s Amp is Legendary
Feature
description
Power
100 watts of pure tube power, delivering a rich and dynamic sound.
Versatility
Can handle a wide range of musical styles, from blues to hard rock.
Signature Sound
Known for its smooth overdrive and sustain, perfect for solos.
When Nichols visited Joe Bonamassa’s home to film a video featuring this amp, he was struck by the raw power it exuded.”It felt like we were channeling Gary Moore’s spirit in the room,” he recalls. The amp had just arrived in a shipping crate and had not been serviced, adding an element of unpredictability to the session.
First-Hand Experience: Recording with the SLO-100
During the recording session, Nichols and bonamassa experienced several power fluctuations, which only added to the excitement. “It was like finding a classic muscle car and just firing it up,” Nichols said, describing the thrill of using such a legendary piece of equipment.
In addition to the Soldano SLO-100, Nichols also had the chance to use Moore’s JTM45 Bluesbreaker amp, paired with his original Guv’nor pedal. This combination allowed him to explore a range of tones that are both nostalgic and fresh.
Tips for Using legendary Gear
Understand Your Equipment: Familiarize yourself with the amp’s features and settings to get the best sound.
Experiment: Don’t be afraid to try different settings and pedals to find your unique tone.
Record Live: Capture the energy of a live performance to bring your recordings to life.
Benefits of Recording in Iconic Studios
Recording in a legendary studio like Studio 606 offers numerous advantages:
Access to High-Quality Gear: Utilize professional equipment that can elevate your sound.
Creative Inspiration: The history and energy of the space can inspire new ideas and creativity.
Networking Opportunities: Collaborate with other talented musicians and producers who frequent the studio.
case Study: Jared James Nichols’ Latest Album
Jared James Nichols’ latest album, *Louder Than Fate*, showcases the influence of his experiences at Studio 606 and with Gary moore’s gear. The album features a blend of rock and blues,with standout tracks that highlight his growth as an artist.
A bluesy riff that showcases Nichols’ guitar prowess.
Killing Time
A powerful ballad that highlights emotional depth and lyrical storytelling.
Practical Tips for Aspiring Musicians
For those looking to follow in Nichols’ footsteps, here are some practical tips:
Practise Regularly: Consistent practice is key to improving your skills.
Seek Feedback: Collaborate with other musicians and seek constructive criticism.
Stay True to Your Sound: Don’t be afraid to explore different genres, but always stay authentic to your musical identity.
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