Strumming the Stars: Biffy Clyro's Simon Neil on the Power of One Finger, the Allure of Kirk Hammett's Greeny, and His Undying Love for the Strat!
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Biffy clyro’s Simon Neil: The Art of Rocking with Riffs and Guitars
Over the past thirty years, the Kilmarnock-based band Biffy Clyro has established itself as a pioneering force in the rock music scene.Their unique ability to craft anthems that resonate in stadiums has captivated audiences worldwide, blending excitement and depth in their sound.
At the helm is Simon Neil, the band’s charismatic frontman and guitarist, who possesses a profound understanding of the riff’s power and the importance of the musical elements that accompany it. His knack for harmonizing intensity with melody has become a hallmark of the band’s identity.
Exploring New Horizons with *Futique*
With the release of their tenth studio album, *Futique*, Biffy Clyro continues to push the boundaries of their sound. The band manages to innovate while maintaining their core essence, delivering fresh surprises that keep fans engaged.
Tracks like *A Little Love*,*Hunting Season*,and *True Believer* evoke a sense of nostalgia,making it seem as though thay have been part of the musical landscape for ages. This timeless quality extends to the album itself, which feels both familiar and new.
Collaborating with producer Jonathan Gilmore for the first time has allowed simon to explore new creative avenues, moving beyond the customary trio setup to incorporate richer layers and orchestration into their music.
“When crafting music, there comes a moment when things can start to feel constrained,” Simon explains. “It’s crucial to approach grand ideas and lofty ambitions with caution.”
Signature Sounds and Guitar Affection
Simon Neil has long been a devotee of the Fender Stratocaster, particularly the Michael Landau signature model. “I discovered one about a decade ago, and it resonated with me instantly. That’s the guitar I predominantly use in the studio, a reissue of his 1968 original.Actually, I ended up purchasing two of them. Thes strats are stunning and form the backbone of our recordings,” he shares.
“The Strat is everything to me. My favorite model is the Michael landau signature…That’s the guitar I usually play in the studio.”
Embracing Variety in the Studio
While Simon has a strong affinity for his Strats, he is open to experimentation. He has dabbled with guitars from a boutique UK brand called Fairlane Guitars and has also utilized a Novo guitar from Nashville, which he borrowed from his tour manager for this album. Surprisingly,one of his key instruments for this record was a compact Fender Champ.
“Yes, the one with the built-in speaker! It was launched in Japan during the ’90s. A technician had one, and it felt incredibly authentic. The sound from that speaker is phenomenal, producing a wonderfully gritty tone,” he recalls. “Even though it’s quiet, we mic’d it for several tracks to capture that warm, vintage sound. I’ve embraced a few other guitars, but the Strat remains my signature sound, cutting through any mix effortlessly.”
Guitar Collection and the Allure of ‘Greeny’
While Simon may not have the extensive collection of guitars like Slash or joe Bonamassa,he does have a few prized possessions. “I wish I had the budget to collect like they do,” he laughs. “Recently, I treated myself to a Custom Shop reissue of Kirk Hammett’s ‘Greeny’-a 1959 Les Paul Standard I found in Nashville. It was a notable investment, and I hesitated before purchasing it.”
“I’m a die-hard Fender strat fan, but I also admire Metallica and have seen Kirk perform with that guitar over the years. I understand its significance. While I appreciate the sound of Les Pauls and find them incredibly useful in the studio, wearing one feels like donning someone else’s attire,” he admits.
Simon also owns a ’77 Les Paul that has made appearances on a couple of records, along with a ’63 SG he acquired from Norm’s Rare Guitars.”I’ve tried using it live, but it struggles to stay in tune. It’s a masterpiece that channels Angus Young’s spirit. I often write with it, just like my White Falcon,” he adds.
Did the ‘Greeny’ Make the Cut?
As for whether the ‘Greeny’ was used in the recording process, Simon’s enthusiasm for his gear and the creative process shines through, hinting at the exciting possibilities that lie ahead for Biffy Clyro and their ever-evolving sound.
Simon Neil Discusses Guitar Choices and Studio Techniques
In the studio, Simon Neil of Biffy Clyro has been experimenting with various guitars, including a particularly pricey one that has him feeling a bit apprehensive. “It appeared on tracks like *A Thousand And One*,*It’s Chemical!*,and *Woe Is Me,Wow Is You*. I’m cautious about this guitar due to its cost; I can hardly bear to look at it. I worry I might have gone too far. Though, I adore the middle pickup position that creates an out-of-phase sound. It’s wonderfully bizarre and reminiscent of a Stratocaster,” he shares.
Studio Gear: Amps and Effects
When it comes to amplifiers,Simon primarily relied on a Fender Twin Reverb and a robust Marshall JCM800 during the recording sessions. Interestingly, they also incorporated a vintage Sears amp, which, despite its low price, produced a fantastic sound when cranked up, offering a unique character, albeit with some unpredictability when paired with pedals.
Additionally, Simon utilized some gear from Audio Kitchen, including the Little Chopper amp and The Big Trees preamp pedal. “This time, we leaned more towards direct input (DI) and post-processing effects, which is a departure from my usual approach. I enjoy the sound of air moving, but working with a new producer led us to adopt a more contemporary style for this album,” he explains.
(Image credit: future/Phil Barker)
Exploring New Recording Techniques
Simon reflects on the advantages of this modern approach: “Typically, I shy away from DI, but it introduces a distinct quality to the sound. I experimented with a few Chase Bliss pedals to add texture in the background. This was the first time I aimed to ensure that our recordings didn’t solely reflect the live sound. In the past, capturing the three of us playing together was paramount. This time, I wanted to bring everything to the forefront.”
“In previous albums, we often recorded with minimal setups, using just one microphone and one amp to create a singular tone for each song. This time, I sought to incorporate layers. I didn’t want the sound to feel overly organic. For instance, *It’s Chemical!* ended up having a heavily chorus-affected sound, but it’s actually composed of around 100 different guitar tracks,” he elaborates.
“I’ve transitioned from using minimal gear to achieve a massive sound to employing a broader range of equipment while maintaining the same objective. However,it’s crucial to avoid over-recording,as that can led to a cluttered mix,” he adds.
Biffy Clyro – Hunting Season (Official Music Video) - YouTube
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Balancing Ambition and Sound
“It’s captivating how ambition can sometimes lead to overcomplication,” Simon reflects. “Without Jonathan’s guidance,I often find myself stuck in the demo phase. I tend to think I can enhance a song,but there comes a point where it stops evolving and begins to feel cramped. Jonathan helped us maintain that balance, ensuring the sound remained expansive without becoming overly dense.”
Even on tracks that may not sound like a traditional three-piece setup, it’s vital for Simon that the songs can stand alone in a stripped-back format. “We still prepare likewise. I always have my Marshall and Fender amps, along with my Boss Metal Zone and delay pedals. they’re integral to everything we do. If a song can thrive with just a basic setup,we certainly know it will translate well,nonetheless of how we record it,” he emphasizes.
(Image credit: Future/Phil Barker)
Crafting *A little Love* and Future Pedal Plans
Reflecting on the writing process for *A Little Love*, simon recalls, “The moment I transitioned from a minor to a major chord, I knew the song was finished. I used DADGAD tuning, which is one of my favorites as it allows chords to resonate beautifully. With just a couple of fingers, you can create a powerful sound that conveys deep emotion.”
“There’s something incredibly freeing about producing such expansive sounds with minimal effort. DADGAD is much more manageable than some of the open C tunings I’ve experimented with, which can be a hassle due to string tension changes,” he adds.
Simon and his tech, Richard Pratt from Gone Fishing Effects, launched the Booooom Blast overdrive/fuzz pedals in 2020. “Yes, we’re still producing them. To everyone reading this, it’s an absolute must-have, so make sure to include it in your recordings! We’ve considered a wider release, but I prefer to keep it to smaller batches,” he states.
“Richard personally crafts each pedal. If something goes awry, customers can return it for repairs. I believe that when production scales up, the quality can sometimes diminish. This is all made to order in a workshop,” he concludes.
Biffy Clyro – Shot One (Official Audio) - YouTube
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Simon Neil on Guitar Techniques and Musical Inspirations
Simon Neil of Biffy Clyro has been delving into various guitar techniques and sounds in the studio, particularly with a high-end guitar that makes him feel a bit anxious. “It featured prominently on tracks like *A Thousand And One*, *It’s chemical!*, and *woe is me, Wow Is You*. I feel a bit intimidated by this guitar due to its price; I can hardly bear to look at it. I worry I might have pushed my limits. Yet, I absolutely love the middle pickup position that creates an out-of-phase sound. It’s wonderfully quirky and has a Strat-like vibe,” he explains.
Essential Gear: Amplifiers and Effects
In the studio, Simon primarily utilized a Fender Twin Reverb and a powerful Marshall JCM800. They also incorporated a vintage Sears amplifier, which, despite being inexpensive, produced an remarkable sound when cranked up, showcasing a unique character, though it was somewhat unpredictable with pedals.
Additionally, he experimented with equipment from Audio Kitchen, including the little Chopper amp and The Big Trees preamp pedal. “This time, we focused more on direct input (DI) and post-processing effects, which is a shift from my usual methods. I enjoy the sound of air moving, but collaborating with a new producer led us to adopt a more modern approach for this album,” he shares.
(Image credit: Future/Phil Barker)
Innovative Recording Techniques
Simon discusses the benefits of this modern recording approach: “Typically, I’m hesitant to use DI, but it adds a unique quality to the sound. I experimented with a few Chase Bliss pedals to create textures in the background. This was the first time I aimed to ensure that our recordings didn’t just reflect the live sound. In the past, capturing the three of us playing together was crucial. This time, I wanted everything to be more prominent.”
“In previous albums, we frequently enough recorded with minimal setups, typically using one microphone and one amp to create a single tone for each song. This time, I aimed for layers. I didn’t want the sound to feel overly organic. For example, *It’s Chemical!* ended up sounding heavily chorus-affected, but it’s actually composed of around 100 different guitar tracks,” he elaborates.
“I’ve shifted from using minimal gear to achieve a massive sound to utilizing a broader range of equipment while keeping the same goal. However, it’s essential to avoid over-recording, as that can lead to a cluttered mix,” he adds.
Biffy Clyro – Hunting Season (Official Music Video) – YouTube
Watch On
Personal Growth and Musical Exploration
“What do you hope to explore next?” Simon is asked. “Definitely nylon strings! I aspire to become a skilled fingerstyle player. Over the years, I’ve picked up a few folk techniques, but I realize I haven’t made significant progress. I might need to take a break from songwriting for a while. As someone in my 40s, I feel I should be further along in my skills. I think I missed out on years of learning other people’s songs.For our very first performance, we played nine tracks, and seven of them were our own,” he admits.
“Which guitarists inspire you?” he is queried. “It may sound cliché, but I learned about Django Reinhardt and his missing fingers early on. I attempted to learn a few of his pieces when I was around 13,and I didn’t realize how much it would expand my musical perspective,” he reflects.
“What Django accomplished with the guitar was remarkable. I admire the compositions he created despite his limitations.He’s somewhat akin to Tony iommi in that respect; both overcame their injuries and essentially forged new musical genres. They each contributed something vital to music,” he concludes.
Biffy Clyro – Many of Horror (Live at T in the Park) – YouTube
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Strumming the Stars: Biffy Clyro’s Simon Neil on the Power of One Finger, the Allure of Kirk Hammett’s Greeny, and His Undying Love for the Strat!
Strumming the Stars: Biffy Clyro’s Simon neil on the Power of One Finger, the Allure of Kirk Hammett’s Greeny, and His Undying Love for the Strat!
The Power of One Finger
Simon Neil, the frontman of Biffy Clyro, has a unique outlook on guitar playing that emphasizes simplicity and emotional expression. He believes that even wiht minimal effort, such as using just one finger, a guitarist can create profound sounds that resonate deeply with listeners. This ideology is evident in his songwriting and performance style.
Benefits of Minimalism in Guitar Playing
Enhanced Emotional Connection: focusing on fewer notes allows for greater emotional expression.
Simplified Learning Curve: Beginners can quickly grasp the basics and start playing songs.
Unique Sound Creation: Using unconventional techniques can lead too innovative sounds.
The Allure of Kirk Hammett’s Greeny
One of the most iconic guitars in rock history is Kirk Hammett’s ‘Greeny,’ a 1959 Gibson Les Paul Standard. Simon Neil has expressed his admiration for this legendary instrument, noting its unique tonal qualities and the rich history behind it. The allure of Greeny lies not only in its sound but also in the stories it carries from its previous owners, including the late Peter Green.
why greeny Stands Out
Feature
Description
Year
1959
model
Gibson Les Paul Standard
previous Owners
Peter Green, Gary Moore, Kirk Hammett
Notable Sound
Warm, thick, and sustain-rich
Simon Neil’s Love for the Stratocaster
Despite his admiration for Greeny, Simon Neil remains a devoted Fender Stratocaster player. He often cites the Strat as his primary instrument,appreciating its versatility and iconic sound. The Strat’s unique design and tonal capabilities allow Simon to explore various musical styles, from rock to alternative.
Why Choose a Stratocaster?
Versatility: Suitable for multiple genres, including rock, blues, and jazz.
Comfort: The contoured body design makes it easy to play for extended periods.
Signature Sound: Known for its bright, clear tones and excellent sustain.
Practical Tips for Guitarists
For aspiring guitarists looking to enhance their skills, Simon Neil offers several practical tips based on his experiences:
Experiment with Tunings: Don’t be afraid to explore different tunings to find unique sounds.
Focus on Technique: Spend time developing your fingerpicking and strumming techniques.
Embrace Mistakes: Use mistakes as learning opportunities to grow as a musician.
Play with Emotion: Always aim to convey feelings thru your music, nonetheless of technical skill.
Case Studies: Influential Guitarists
Many renowned guitarists have embraced unique techniques and styles that have shaped their careers. Here are a few notable examples:
Guitarist
Technique
Influence
Eric Clapton
Blues-infused rock
Popularized the use of the Stratocaster in rock music.
Django Reinhardt
Gypsy jazz
Revolutionized guitar playing with his unique fingerstyle technique.
Tony Iommi
Heavy metal riffs
Created a new genre with his dark, heavy sound despite his injury.
First-hand Experience: Simon’s Journey
Simon Neil’s journey as a guitarist has been marked by exploration and growth. He recalls a period during the pandemic when he felt disconnected from his guitar. “We released two albums during that time, and my guitar was my companion.afterward, I couldn’t even look at it for a year; I was scared of it. I felt this pressure to write music every time I picked it up,” he shares.
To reignite his passion, Simon ventured into heavy metal music with Empire State Bastard alongside Mike Vennart. “As soon as I returned home, I picked up the guitar, and the songs began to flow again. It felt like playtime once more,” he reflects.
Inviting creativity: Join the Beatbounty Community
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