GET OUT OF MY YARD! Paul Gilbert's The Tao Of Shred
Interview
By The Atomic Chaser and The Rocker
Paul Gilbert, unleashes his fury on his very first all instrumental album, 'GET OUT OF MY YARD!' It is definitely all that you would expect from a guitarist of Paul's caliber and stature. As a member of both the '80's metal legends RACER X and later, million sellers MR. BIG, Paul Gilbert has gained a reputation as being one of the most melodic, but powerful guitar players to ever shake the world's foundation.
Determined not to be pigeon-holed as just a "shredder", Gilbert's solo work has allowed him the opportunity to exercise his deep appreciation for the more song oriented side of rock music. Paul has released many successful solo albums in the past, which confirms his position as one of the premier rock guitar players in the World. Paul’s strong fan base has been asking for an all-instrumental record for years and they are about to get served up a guitar smorgasbord beyond their wildest hopes.
Paul admits he had never aspired to write and record an instrumental as he; himself rarely listened to guitar instrumental records. With the resurgent interest in musician oriented records the release of this record is perfectly timed. Times have changed and once again we find a legion of young players, now discovering the origins of high performance shred guitar of which Paul Gilbert is one of the true innovators. Now, in 2006 we will experience the first of Gilbert’s solo playing, finally letting out all that pent-up shredding.
The Rocker and I asked Paul a few questions about his latest release, here is what Paul shred, we mean shared with us...
AAM: How would you describe the vibe of “Get Out Of My Yard”? This is your first all instrumental release,right?
Paul Gilbert: ROCK!!! I don't want to play background music that you can play in the background while you have dinner. This album demands full attention from your ears.
AAM: Did Marshall amps have to construct special amps for you, as far as decibel levels go?
PG: I use Laney amps. They deliver crushing tone and volume right out of the box. No mods necessary.
AAM: Oops, our bad...How long did you spend in the studio recording the new album? Any memorable moments while recording, if so did you capture them on video?
PG: I spent 2-3 months writing and recording. Right in the middle of everything, I had to transform into Pete Townshend to do some Who tribute shows. That's why I'm growing a beard on the CD cover.
AAM: Why the delay in recording your first all instrumental release?
PG: I don't like guitar instrumental music! There are a few exceptions, but mostly I'm a fan of rock bands with singers. But finally I had enough guitar ideas and a vision of how I could do it my own way.
AAM: Will you be touring to support, 'Get Out Of My Yard'?
PG: Yes. Japan, Europe, and hopefully some shows in the Americas as well.
AAM: Are you happy with what you've created now that the album is finished?
PG: YES. It turned out better than I had hoped. I might do another.
AAM: Who are the players that play with you on the new album?
PG: I played all the guitar and most of the bass. Jeff Bowders played drums. Mike Szuter played bass on a few songs. My wife, Emi, played piano and B3 organ on a couple of songs. That's all the people.
AAM: Aside from the new album, are there any other new projects you are working on?
PG: Practicing my guitar so I can perform the songs live while I'm standing up and rocking out!
AAM: Do you have any message(s) to your fans that we can pass along for you?
PG: Enjoy "Get Out of My Yard", eat fresh fruit, read Ayn Rand, Carl Sagan, and Charles Schulz, and enjoy the rest of the summer! Thank you, Paul.
The Rocker and I would like to thank Paul for sharing some time with us, a pleasure as always! Thanks Paul, may the "Shred" be with you.
“Get Out Of My Yard” in store August 29th 2006, on Shrapnel Records.
Story and Interview by The Atomic Chaser and The Rocker
