I love when Mick says 'sorry this has turned into way too long' No no Mick, this is exactly what we are here for, we are right where we are supposed to be! The depth and long form is the point of this channel, to hear nuance and not just it does x or y. Great work gents!
A pair of absolute treasures you blokes are! Love Mick's quest for simplicity and Dan's SG teaching him to behave himself. Hope you get the opportunity and the time to be playing live more boys, it looks great on you.
It bums me to think that you guys are constantly rushing (not in a bad way, just trying to fit everything in so that it isn’t infinitely long) through the video. Take your time. Most of us want (and really enjoy) that extra nerdy detail and the tangents. I understand not wanting to create a video that’s a million miles long, but i’d rather a video that is and is full of character as opposed to a shorter, more straight to the point one.
Hey Mick-please don’t apologize for the long set up with what happened to you. Many of us can relate and it’s really interesting. Mindset and circumstances are a huge part of playing. It’s good to hear what challenges you face because that informs us all on our approach. 😉
Agree and the focus on simplifying by having a sound that helps you play best vs. nailing tones of songs -- super relevant for my and my cover band gig tonight....and potentially all of us!
“No pedal on this board is safe.” I love that, although I’d be shocked if the KoT ever came off! One of my favorite episodes ever. It was so helpful to hear your evolving thoughts on the rig after all these years. Very thoughtful and well communicated. “Stop searching. Start making music.”
Well said, Mick. I mean, if y'all can't find the tone/sound you're looking for with all the stuff you've got at TPS HQ, I'm not sure you're gonna find it at all! Good show, Dan and Mick, thanks!
I am a loyalty follower of TPS over several years since getting back into guitar again in 2021. Unfortunately, since Covid I don't get to watch every single episode. However, now that I am playing live at open mic 🎤 events regularly myself, this show really spoke to me and several issues i have been wrestling with. Bravo guys, for a couple of old dudes you talk a lot of sense. BTW I'm a 27-year old trapped in a 62-year old cancer survivors body but love to let rip on stage when I get the chance. You guess have helped me with that more than you know ❤❤❤❤❤❤
Micks approach of going back to basics live makes total sense to me. I have a closet full of pedals, half a doz guitars, and 4-5 amps. At home my rig sometimes looks like a spaceship with a huge board, 2 or more amps, etc. But when a gig comes along its always "what is the minimum gear I need to pull this off?" It usually boils down to one guitar, one amp, and half a dozen pedals. Any more stuff is way too much to worry over.
Recently I’ve often resorted to my “mini-rig” which is a HX Stomp plus 2 other pedals (interchangeable according to the gig requirements) and one guitar (usually my Tele or a Strat, again according to the gig requirements). Easy to carry, plug direct into the desk and monitor from the wedges. My wet-dry rig hasn’t been gigged yet in the two years it’s been in existence, in various evolving forms. Compared to the mini-rig it’s a lot of stuff, a lot to carry, more stuff you have to keep your eyes on etc. But I have it in a sweet setup now so I’m craving playing some gigs with it, soon come! 😊
This is a superb example of a principle I recently discovered: after years of looking and guitar-wrangling, it turns out that the ideal Telecaster is an SG.
Also a note on the King of Tone, when in "boost" mode it's actually dead ringer for a 90's Bluesbreaker big box. People tend to forget how low of gain they actually were, but crank the gain in "boost" mode and the King of Tone gives you great wide open overdrive and as such I have been running mine lately with both sides in boost mode.
Not sure if the "fat" and "thin" sounds were intentional because of what Josh and Troy do in Queens of The Stone Age, but that's exactly how they approach their sound. Troy plays single coil pickups, and Josh does the humbucker thing. Sounds like you were bang on.
Great sounds, guys! Of course we all know (and hope) there will be two completely different boards for upcomming gigs. That’s what we’re here for! And we love you for it! The guitars will stay. As do (some of) the amps and/or cabs. You guys can start pulling your boards apart now, because we’ll be awaiting two new ones for new gigs... ... soon! 😉 Dan, that means you too, sir! 🖖
Thanks D&M and to Mr Timmons Dougie, Paddy and Jake for your efforts in pulling off these shows. Leicester was great, there was a really nice vibe that night. You were definitely in the moment and just doing it! Sounds as I expected were incredible and fitted the music perfectly. MR Blue Sky was something special, wholly joyous and brought back a lot of fond childhood memories. Fascinating to see the boards and how you were working them. Thanks again leg-ends.
I’m not a great musician but I love making music with others who are. Just play. Simplify and play. Setting up a night once a week with the mates to play - kind of like ‘poker night’ - has been the best thing for my playing in 20 years.
Mick, your thoughts on less gain were so helpful for me! I’ve been struggling with exactly what you were talking about. Thanks to you both for great stuff! Enjoyed this one a lot.
Cheers Rob. The slightly annoying part is that, in my case anyway, I kinda need more volume in order that the less gain thing has the harmonics and sustain to sound fat and rich. Somebody clever has probably done a meme or some such to explain it graphically! Ha.
Mick, you’re getting closer to the approach of Simon Jarrett, and Robbin Ford. I agree. Sometimes the illusion’ of distortion is the best. Still well defined and cutting without being thin. Lots of power left in it. Love it! Great TPS gents!
Mick's summary: absolutely spot on! Pick the rig and gear for the job in hand, and figure out what you want to say with that (not always easy when you're in a covers band as many want to just emulate what the original artist did; but I try never to do that - might as well listen to the CD so to speak, and I'm NOT knocking those who do, but for me, what can I say about that song in my own way without ruining it..............not always very much is the answer, but I need to try!) :)
I’ve heard that comments help the channels, so I try to leave one here and there. The world is terrifying and loads of stuff seems to be getting worse on a lot of fronts and its hard not to let it leech into your personal life one way or another. I appreciate this show doing what it does . Its a good respite…and the episodes are so flipping long that its like a vacation for the mind.
Great revisit to both pedalboards. Nice job Gents. I was gutted that I couldn’t make the Cavern gig, it was on my hit list and then found out that a family event landed at the same time! I would have loved to witness yourselves and Andy work your magic. Maybe next time…fingers crossed.
I too will stop chasing the tone and serve the music as I am a devoted disciple and will pray at my alter of music through my fingers via my heart and my very soul! Ahmen! 🤘🏼
Just want to say i really dig watching your highly informative and skilledful content. You both are excellent players. It tickles me to watch Dan's reactions when things align and gets juicy. Just priceless. Thanks again guys.....
I switched to bass about 9months ago and joined a band. Since then it’s been all about the songs. I’ve got a simple yet fairly pricey rig and I love it. I hope you can find that same thing on guitar Mick. Dan, I’m loving the SG man, it’s a rock and roll machine! Much love from across the pond
I wish someone would start a channel that transcribes the pre-discussion noodling these two do. That first five minutes or so of each show is a treasure trove of lick ideas and harmonic parts/voicings.
Dan. Just use Andy’s Halo setting with the expression pedal and you’re golden. What you want when you want it. Lessens pedal clutter. Love your JJ and Matchless together! Beautiful!!Great TPS!
After a particularly brutal shift and a 12 mile cycle home this was perfect to just wind down, learn something cool and end a crappy day on a high note. Love you guys and the always quality banter 👌
Great to see this video. I was near the front at Fat Lils and tried to pap the boards but gave up and just enjoyed the gig instead. The tones from both rigs were excellent, and I concur on the Lester Pablos owning the night. I wonder how long until we get to do this again, hopefully not 2 years? If Mr. Timmons is unavailable, there are loads of us who'd come just for a full TPS band gig, 2 sets of pure leg endery action! Or maybe you can persuade Aynsley to get involved? Basically more TPS gigs please, they really are an annual highlight for those of us lucky enough to go 👍
Loved this one - lots of great ideas and food for thought as always - irony not lost on me that I watched you talking about looking for simplicity as I wired up the latest incarnation of my (bigger) board…
I've always had the biggest respect for pro gigging musicians because they have to deal with the things Mick dealt with on an ongoing basis. It can't be easy to perform at a high level when dealing with adversities. Not to mention things like the emotion duress of relationship issues or financial issues or things of that nature. For what it's worth - the videos I saw sounded great and it was super fun to watch you chaps having a good time! Love you guys.
I appreciated every second of this episode and it is safe to say that this is a new level of results from the TPS motto: it is not about answers, but is about better questions (Mick says it better). Fingergate is also a great band name!
Hope your garlic chops have improved … ouch! I had a mishap that looked similar to Mick’s injury. To speed up the healing (after one week). My doctor told me to soak hand in warm water 15 minutes per day. A week later it healed completely.
Really really happy to see you've recovered Mick 💪 The show at the Cavern was fantastic! Crazy audience, crazy playing, and crazy sound! (really the best live sound i've heard, no kidding) But for me, i have to say the best was when Dan smashed the crap out of the Tele! Just some chords and goosebumps everywhere 😍
Late to the party on this one obviously but when I heard about Mick's accident on chopping garlic I immediately thought of an accident I had 3 days before a show when I was grabbing silverware out of the dishwasher and cut my index finger on a knife blade. Pressing down the strings with a bandage on was awkward with some sting to it. Lesson learned...Sharp utensils are not forgiving...handle with care. Maybe a sign we should all have in our kitchen. Happy to hear to you're okay Mick and you were able to play the show! Cheers from Massachusetts!
@Dan. Make a start with the Hamstead 60 while you’re getting the HiWatt sorted… I went through the same process and arrived back every time at the Hamstead.
Hey Mick, I’ve recently become certified as a coach, and the central principle is Performance = Potential - Obstructions. Your reflections on how you want to approach your set up completely align with this ! Cheers !
Being sick makes everything suck, kudos to you for showing up at all. Makes me feel better that I keep my board so simple. It’s hard to tap dance while strumming. That’s why the big bands have a tech orchestrating the pedals. There was only one Kurt Cobain, I feel punching distortion for anyone else in a chorus sounds bad. I mean let the music take its dynamic course. But soloing I get it stacking.
So fun. Eye candy. Would like to see a poll on how many have come to use a Tone Master Deluxe Reverb (new or used) and simple pedalboard. So many good options.
As a former studio engineer...some additional thoughts about this reverb vs. delay on guitar rigs thing. I have a friend in Nashville who is a guitar player (both touring and studio) and producer. He doesn't use reverb when playing live. Only delay to create that "float." Reverb IS JUST multiple delay repeats. (being pedantic here, sorry) Historically....the guitar sounds from the past that we try to emulate...almost all of them were recorded without reverb on the guitar signal. Reverb was added in mixing (yes, I am fully aware there are exceptions). Reverb traditionally was used to create space IN A MIX played through speakers. In a live setting....if you add reverb to your sound...to some extent you are creating "distance" between your core sound and the listener, and there is NOTHING a front of house mixer can do to bring you forward in HIS mix. Nowhere has this become more of problem than in Contemporary Christian music and videos. (before, you flame me...I play at church as well). There are SOOOOO many VIDEOS out there of bands playing in big arenas, where the song (and guitar parts) are awash with reverb. As a viewer, your brain accepts this sound because it matches the visual space you see before you. The problem is...many less experienced church guitar players ADD this wash to their signal, thinking that it matches the sounds they "see" in this context. Played live...these sounds just lose size and coherency in a large room. It's a replication of a large sound coming through a 10"/12" speaker....then added to a large, physical space. There a lots of guitar tutorials of CC songs where the lesson includes getting the sound....including a wash of reverb. These well-meaning instructors are teaching the sound that is in the recording....which doesn't necessarily translate in the live setting. Of course, of course, of course...you can make reverb work in both situations....studio and live. But because we have moved soooo far away from learning guitar as it applies to a live setting, folks are now replicating the spaces they hear on recordings...without giving any consideration to how it might sound in an actual physical space. This discussion overlaps with playing on a "quiet stage" without amps...but that is a topic for another discussion. Please try the following when you play live...set up your delay time of choice...with about 4 repeats. I promise you, when you play live...the delay will create that "player's float" you want...and will still provide the FOH mixer with a tone he can easily add to the other sound juggling he/she is trying to do. Playing to a reverb at home is fun, don't get me wrong.
Of course. Pretty sure, I’m switching to BB-Kings Lucille and a Supro. Beyond inspired to practice right and learn some theory - maybe a cover to some Gladys Knight as well. Gotta visit the UK..thinking I need a cleaner amp buuut fuc it
Mick - No need to apologise about your section being long. I thoroughly enjoyed it. I love your playing and it was really informative, particularly from a gain stacking point of view. Thanks! Stacking of low gain (TS-type) -> mid gain (tube driver/base tone) -> higher gain (argo) really was worth the ticket price alone. I'm going to try something into my Victory Copper with two drive pedals, and the in-built treble boost, and maybe a FjordFuzz. Love that you're working with Zack Mythos too!
I can relate to the discovery of superior live guitar sound with my Gibsons. This is coming from someone who played strats and teles for years, and then picked up an SG and LP in recent years. I play for my church and also play some gigs on the side. After hearing some of the recorded services, there is no comparison to the tone and sustain of the Gibsons in the mix. I still play my Fenders occasionally but the Gibsons shine!
They sounded amazing at Fat Lil’s, as did Andy, of course. What an incredible event! Still thinking of the terror that shot through my body when the strap on Dan’s SG gave out when I was holding it 😂
Hi TPS, so Mick said, sometimes his brain doesn't work, well I'm not surprised when he comes out with expressions like " slow up or speed down" Lol. Great show guys, some awesome sounds from your gear and hands.
Absolutely loved the Leicester Gig, -you all sounded really great- and thanks for signing my pedals and huge thanks for being so gracious towards the cheerful drunk, it was so good to be that guy fo a change ( made me realise how important it is to take the time to spread a little love , even if I’m trying to get packed away after a gig👍🎸😀)
Thanks for sharing your rigs and insights guys, always very informative and interesting and fun to watch(and hear 👂)Mick, I’m on a similar sound journey as you, trying to simplify a bit, looking for clarity, and also been doing a similar thing as you, not so much with the pedalboard which I’ve simplified (sort of 😅) to a pretty constant set of pedals that do what I need in most situations, but I’ve been choosing different amps for different gigs, even with the same band, but if we’re playing a more rock type venue I’ll probably grab a vintage voiced Marshall, if a bluesier venue it’s definitely one of my fenders, which changes with size of venue and sound of room, and I’m about to start a more British sounding band(I’m from California) and I’ll be taking my AC15.
The no LED phase 90 is by far the best! Compared to a script LED version, it's subtle but worth the difference. Love the contrast between the two boards today
Such a great episode guys… I’m currently putting together a trio and going through similar revelations regards delays and verbs and Mick your thoughts re learn, routine, play… super insightful guys love it
Love this episode so much, but what i love even more is the idea of you guys doing a blindfold challenge for some fun!! Would be super interesting to see your perspectives on what you're hearing when doing the comparisons and ultimately what you end up picking with just your ears. Super fascinated by the idea!!! Please please do this for an episode 🙏🙏 Thanks for all you do!! Cheers from Central Oregon
Thank you for this. The idea of changing the board for each gig is GOLD. Not only is this great fun (get to change the train set every week) but it means I'm not struggling to use pedals that aren't doing the job I want them to! I don't know why: I got set on having a pedal board that was my "board for all occasions". Silly. Our setlist changes every week, so why not keep it fluid? Did this on Saturday and was in love with my sound all night.
I’m currently doing a similar thing as Mick as far as gain staging. I’m going RYRA Klone > Cornerstone Gladio SC > Xotic EP Booster. All gain levels set fairly low.
When you guys mentioned the Gibson sounding better at the gigs than the fenders, it reminded me of something Tom Bukovec said once. He said, “ You ever notice when you go into a bar and you can always hear the guy playing the Gibson and you can rarely hear the guy playing the fender?”
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I love when Mick says 'sorry this has turned into way too long'
No no Mick, this is exactly what we are here for, we are right where we are supposed to be! The depth and long form is the point of this channel, to hear nuance and not just it does x or y. Great work gents!
4:35 "loud, louder, loudest"
PUT IT ON A SHIRT, HERE'S MY MONEY 😍
A pedal under each word… brilliant Idea! 💡
A pair of absolute treasures you blokes are! Love Mick's quest for simplicity and Dan's SG teaching him to behave himself.
Hope you get the opportunity and the time to be playing live more boys, it looks great on you.
It bums me to think that you guys are constantly rushing (not in a bad way, just trying to fit everything in so that it isn’t infinitely long) through the video. Take your time. Most of us want (and really enjoy) that extra nerdy detail and the tangents. I understand not wanting to create a video that’s a million miles long, but i’d rather a video that is and is full of character as opposed to a shorter, more straight to the point one.
I agree, if it is "too long" I wouldn't be against separate rig videos for each of them, explaining more detail
Well said both 👏 100% agree. Nerd out on us!
There is nerd and there is nerd not, there is no short nerd!
To mirror the comments below. I agree! I don't really worry about length!
@@gigsandguitars6921 That's what she said
Hey Mick-please don’t apologize for the long set up with what happened to you. Many of us can relate and it’s really interesting. Mindset and circumstances are a huge part of playing. It’s good to hear what challenges you face because that informs us all on our approach. 😉
Agree and the focus on simplifying by having a sound that helps you play best vs. nailing tones of songs -- super relevant for my and my cover band gig tonight....and potentially all of us!
I’m always looking to simplify as well. It forces me to rely on my technique. But I do love pedals! lol.
You know when Dan is sat there chuckling, he's saying "I approve of this sound" :) Like a cheeky imp.
Rigs for Gigs sounds like a charity for musicians, by musicians.
Stars 2.0. 😂😂
That’s well played
🤓 good one!
Sounds like a pre gig needle exchange program
It could be sponsored by GigRig and called Gigrig for rigs for gigs
“No pedal on this board is safe.” I love that, although I’d be shocked if the KoT ever came off! One of my favorite episodes ever. It was so helpful to hear your evolving thoughts on the rig after all these years. Very thoughtful and well communicated. “Stop searching. Start making music.”
Glad you are doing this. This is peak TPS.
Heritage 385
Great show as ever chaps, many thanks. Mick's quote 'stop searching, start making music' is so right...love it. 👍
Well said, Mick. I mean, if y'all can't find the tone/sound you're looking for with all the stuff you've got at TPS HQ, I'm not sure you're gonna find it at all! Good show, Dan and Mick, thanks!
"Quick bend down never really hurt anyone" 🤣
What are you doing step guitar player
Amplified Nation?
I've seen fentanyl addicts who go by that philosophy
I am a loyalty follower of TPS over several years since getting back into guitar again in 2021. Unfortunately, since Covid I don't get to watch every single episode. However, now that I am playing live at open mic 🎤 events regularly myself, this show really spoke to me and several issues i have been wrestling with. Bravo guys, for a couple of old dudes you talk a lot of sense. BTW I'm a 27-year old trapped in a 62-year old cancer survivors body but love to let rip on stage when I get the chance. You guess have helped me with that more than you know ❤❤❤❤❤❤
Micks approach of going back to basics live makes total sense to me. I have a closet full of pedals, half a doz guitars, and 4-5 amps. At home my rig sometimes looks like a spaceship with a huge board, 2 or more amps, etc. But when a gig comes along its always "what is the minimum gear I need to pull this off?" It usually boils down to one guitar, one amp, and half a dozen pedals. Any more stuff is way too much to worry over.
Recently I’ve often resorted to my “mini-rig” which is a HX Stomp plus 2 other pedals (interchangeable according to the gig requirements) and one guitar (usually my Tele or a Strat, again according to the gig requirements). Easy to carry, plug direct into the desk and monitor from the wedges.
My wet-dry rig hasn’t been gigged yet in the two years it’s been in existence, in various evolving forms. Compared to the mini-rig it’s a lot of stuff, a lot to carry, more stuff you have to keep your eyes on etc. But I have it in a sweet setup now so I’m craving playing some gigs with it, soon come! 😊
So the answer to all guitar questions is SG? Damn right. Great show guys.
This is a superb example of a principle I recently discovered: after years of looking and guitar-wrangling, it turns out that the ideal Telecaster is an SG.
Loved the Cavern so much, thank you!!!! More gigs please, we'll come even without AT, he's the icing on an already beautiful cake!
Best episode for years, thank you! Using effects and getting that tone in the real world is whole different thing.
Also a note on the King of Tone, when in "boost" mode it's actually dead ringer for a 90's Bluesbreaker big box. People tend to forget how low of gain they actually were, but crank the gain in "boost" mode and the King of Tone gives you great wide open overdrive and as such I have been running mine lately with both sides in boost mode.
34:44 Dan gets it, Mick definitely gets it, the TPS community quietly nods in approval, chapeau Dan that’s how you do it
Not sure if the "fat" and "thin" sounds were intentional because of what Josh and Troy do in Queens of The Stone Age, but that's exactly how they approach their sound. Troy plays single coil pickups, and Josh does the humbucker thing. Sounds like you were bang on.
Guys, we were at Fat Lil’s & had the most amazing night. Superb crowd, amazing live music and a terrific set list ! Bravo boys. 🎉🎉🎉
Great sounds, guys!
Of course we all know (and hope) there will be two completely different boards for upcomming gigs.
That’s what we’re here for! And we love you for it!
The guitars will stay. As do (some of) the amps and/or cabs.
You guys can start pulling your boards apart now, because we’ll be awaiting two new ones for new gigs...
... soon! 😉
Dan, that means you too, sir!
🖖
Thanks D&M and to Mr Timmons Dougie, Paddy and Jake for your efforts in pulling off these shows. Leicester was great, there was a really nice vibe that night. You were definitely in the moment and just doing it! Sounds as I expected were incredible and fitted the music perfectly. MR Blue Sky was something special, wholly joyous and brought back a lot of fond childhood memories. Fascinating to see the boards and how you were working them. Thanks again leg-ends.
Thank you guys! Had a blast seeing you at Fat Lils! Such a special experience!
I’m not a great musician but I love making music with others who are. Just play. Simplify and play. Setting up a night once a week with the mates to play - kind of like ‘poker night’ - has been the best thing for my playing in 20 years.
I like Mick's esoteric philosophy. Thank you.
We loved this! Great to take a closer look at your rigs after catching you guys at The Guitar Show in Birmingham!
Mick, your thoughts on less gain were so helpful for me! I’ve been struggling with exactly what you were talking about. Thanks to you both for great stuff! Enjoyed this one a lot.
Cheers Rob. The slightly annoying part is that, in my case anyway, I kinda need more volume in order that the less gain thing has the harmonics and sustain to sound fat and rich. Somebody clever has probably done a meme or some such to explain it graphically! Ha.
Micks learning experience at the end was exactly what I think everybody needed to hear
Mick, you’re getting closer to the approach of Simon Jarrett, and Robbin Ford. I agree. Sometimes the illusion’ of distortion is the best. Still well defined and cutting without being thin. Lots of power left in it. Love it! Great TPS gents!
Mick's summary: absolutely spot on! Pick the rig and gear for the job in hand, and figure out what you want to say with that (not always easy when you're in a covers band as many want to just emulate what the original artist did; but I try never to do that - might as well listen to the CD so to speak, and I'm NOT knocking those who do, but for me, what can I say about that song in my own way without ruining it..............not always very much is the answer, but I need to try!) :)
I’ve heard that comments help the channels, so I try to leave one here and there. The world is terrifying and loads of stuff seems to be getting worse on a lot of fronts and its hard not to let it leech into your personal life one way or another. I appreciate this show doing what it does . Its a good respite…and the episodes are so flipping long that its like a vacation for the mind.
Great revisit to both pedalboards. Nice job Gents. I was gutted that I couldn’t make the Cavern gig, it was on my hit list and then found out that a family event landed at the same time! I would have loved to witness yourselves and Andy work your magic. Maybe next time…fingers crossed.
I too will stop chasing the tone and serve the music as I am a devoted disciple and will pray at my alter of music through my fingers via my heart and my very soul! Ahmen! 🤘🏼
Just want to say i really dig watching your highly informative and skilledful content. You both are excellent players. It tickles me to watch Dan's reactions when things align and gets juicy. Just priceless. Thanks again guys.....
Thanks so much 🙏
I switched to bass about 9months ago and joined a band. Since then it’s been all about the songs. I’ve got a simple yet fairly pricey rig and I love it. I hope you can find that same thing on guitar Mick. Dan, I’m loving the SG man, it’s a rock and roll machine! Much love from across the pond
I wish someone would start a channel that transcribes the pre-discussion noodling these two do. That first five minutes or so of each show is a treasure trove of lick ideas and harmonic parts/voicings.
Dan. Just use Andy’s Halo setting with the expression pedal and you’re golden. What you want when you want it. Lessens pedal clutter. Love your JJ and Matchless together! Beautiful!!Great TPS!
Mick doing the Borat impression in 17:00 has to be one of the best moments in TPS. Thanks for the wonderful content, appreciated from Greece :)
as a doom player that Les Paul sounded like heaven through that rig. Incredible.
Great TPS episode. All the useful info I come here for. And great sounds guys
After a particularly brutal shift and a 12 mile cycle home this was perfect to just wind down, learn something cool and end a crappy day on a high note. Love you guys and the always quality banter 👌
Great to see this video. I was near the front at Fat Lils and tried to pap the boards but gave up and just enjoyed the gig instead. The tones from both rigs were excellent, and I concur on the Lester Pablos owning the night. I wonder how long until we get to do this again, hopefully not 2 years? If Mr. Timmons is unavailable, there are loads of us who'd come just for a full TPS band gig, 2 sets of pure leg endery action! Or maybe you can persuade Aynsley to get involved? Basically more TPS gigs please, they really are an annual highlight for those of us lucky enough to go 👍
Loved this one - lots of great ideas and food for thought as always - irony not lost on me that I watched you talking about looking for simplicity as I wired up the latest incarnation of my (bigger) board…
I haven't been here for a while. It's good to see the Lazy J back
I've always had the biggest respect for pro gigging musicians because they have to deal with the things Mick dealt with on an ongoing basis. It can't be easy to perform at a high level when dealing with adversities. Not to mention things like the emotion duress of relationship issues or financial issues or things of that nature. For what it's worth - the videos I saw sounded great and it was
super fun to watch you chaps having a good time! Love you guys.
Also, if that SG is good enough for Thom Yorke, it's a good guitar 🎸. It sounded superb here, cheers guys
Great show fellas. Although I can hear Tony Iommi saying "that's not a finger tip injury, THIS is a finger tip injury" in a Crocodile Dundee style.
I love a current rig video. Thank you gents.
I appreciated every second of this episode and it is safe to say that this is a new level of results from the TPS motto: it is not about answers, but is about better questions (Mick says it better). Fingergate is also a great band name!
This might be my favorite sounding rigs of Dan and Mick of that show that talks about pedals and goes off on existential tangents.
Hope your garlic chops have improved … ouch! I had a mishap that looked similar to Mick’s injury. To speed up the healing (after one week). My doctor told me to soak hand in warm water 15 minutes per day. A week later it healed completely.
Really really happy to see you've recovered Mick 💪
The show at the Cavern was fantastic! Crazy audience, crazy playing, and crazy sound! (really the best live sound i've heard, no kidding)
But for me, i have to say the best was when Dan smashed the crap out of the Tele! Just some chords and goosebumps everywhere 😍
Late to the party on this one obviously but when I heard about Mick's accident on chopping garlic I immediately thought of an accident I had 3 days before a show when I was grabbing silverware out of the dishwasher and cut my index finger on a knife blade. Pressing down the strings with a bandage on was awkward with some sting to it. Lesson learned...Sharp utensils are not forgiving...handle with care. Maybe a sign we should all have in our kitchen. Happy to hear to you're okay Mick and you were able to play the show! Cheers from Massachusetts!
Mick, I'm shocked you said you want to simplify! You and Dan have said for years, "Mooooore is Moooore" 🙂
Love your playing as always.
Greg
What no WDW with 20 pedals ?
Everything changes, even TPS 😂
Brilliant video lads! Thank you for sharing your experience.
@Dan. Make a start with the Hamstead 60 while you’re getting the HiWatt sorted… I went through the same process and arrived back every time at the Hamstead.
Thanks for the episode, really good one! And that Harlot, man… sounds sooo good!
Best tones on the internet! Just absolutely brilliant!! Loved Dan’s rig but Mick, that tube drive and the gain stacking was biblical. ❤
Thanks Kirk 🙏🤓
Hey Mick, I’ve recently become certified as a coach, and the central principle is Performance = Potential - Obstructions. Your reflections on how you want to approach your set up completely align with this ! Cheers !
Nice! This is great!
"I didn't have a tube screamer" lol! I know you were not in your magical studio/toy box, but looking at your current sitch its quite funny!
Being sick makes everything suck, kudos to you for showing up at all. Makes me feel better that I keep my board so simple. It’s hard to tap dance while strumming. That’s why the big bands have a tech orchestrating the pedals. There was only one Kurt Cobain, I feel punching distortion for anyone else in a chorus sounds bad. I mean let the music take its dynamic course. But soloing I get it stacking.
So fun. Eye candy. Would like to see a poll on how many have come to use a Tone Master Deluxe Reverb (new or used) and simple pedalboard. So many good options.
When I played what turned out to be my dream amp it was an instant connection ... and it was me. I just can't imagine not having it.
Oh love this review! What a great rig! Love my TD.. Mick, you should try your pedalboard with the Hiwatt and a Fender style amp in stereo!
Absolutely loved Dan's sounds at 50:05! Amazing video guys!
As a former studio engineer...some additional thoughts about this reverb vs. delay on guitar rigs thing. I have a friend in Nashville who is a guitar player (both touring and studio) and producer. He doesn't use reverb when playing live. Only delay to create that "float."
Reverb IS JUST multiple delay repeats. (being pedantic here, sorry) Historically....the guitar sounds from the past that we try to emulate...almost all of them were recorded without reverb on the guitar signal. Reverb was added in mixing (yes, I am fully aware there are exceptions). Reverb traditionally was used to create space IN A MIX played through speakers.
In a live setting....if you add reverb to your sound...to some extent you are creating "distance" between your core sound and the listener, and there is NOTHING a front of house mixer can do to bring you forward in HIS mix. Nowhere has this become more of problem than in Contemporary Christian music and videos. (before, you flame me...I play at church as well). There are SOOOOO many VIDEOS out there of bands playing in big arenas, where the song (and guitar parts) are awash with reverb. As a viewer, your brain accepts this sound because it matches the visual space you see before you. The problem is...many less experienced church guitar players ADD this wash to their signal, thinking that it matches the sounds they "see" in this context. Played live...these sounds just lose size and coherency in a large room. It's a replication of a large sound coming through a 10"/12" speaker....then added to a large, physical space. There a lots of guitar tutorials of CC songs where the lesson includes getting the sound....including a wash of reverb. These well-meaning instructors are teaching the sound that is in the recording....which doesn't necessarily translate in the live setting.
Of course, of course, of course...you can make reverb work in both situations....studio and live. But because we have moved soooo far away from learning guitar as it applies to a live setting, folks are now replicating the spaces they hear on recordings...without giving any consideration to how it might sound in an actual physical space. This discussion overlaps with playing on a "quiet stage" without amps...but that is a topic for another discussion.
Please try the following when you play live...set up your delay time of choice...with about 4 repeats. I promise you, when you play live...the delay will create that "player's float" you want...and will still provide the FOH mixer with a tone he can easily add to the other sound juggling he/she is trying to do.
Playing to a reverb at home is fun, don't get me wrong.
Loved the simplicity of your board Mick, hope the digit heals fully! Back to watch Dan's rig...
And just like that, Boss Vocoder sales shot through the roof!
I love this channel. So much information, exceptional musicians
Thanks mate 🤓🙏
Love seeing this all - the gigs, you & the band sound wonderful!
Glad you’re alright Mick. Easy with the choppin’ 😄 y’all keep it rollin’ 📷🎸
Thank you!
Of course. Pretty sure, I’m switching to BB-Kings Lucille and a Supro. Beyond inspired to practice right and learn some theory - maybe a cover to some Gladys Knight as well. Gotta visit the UK..thinking I need a cleaner amp buuut fuc it
Mick - No need to apologise about your section being long. I thoroughly enjoyed it. I love your playing and it was really informative, particularly from a gain stacking point of view.
Thanks!
Stacking of low gain (TS-type) -> mid gain (tube driver/base tone) -> higher gain (argo) really was worth the ticket price alone. I'm going to try something into my Victory Copper with two drive pedals, and the in-built treble boost, and maybe a FjordFuzz.
Love that you're working with Zack Mythos too!
I can relate to the discovery of superior live guitar sound with my Gibsons. This is coming from someone who played strats and teles for years, and then picked up an SG and LP in recent years. I play for my church and also play some gigs on the side. After hearing some of the recorded services, there is no comparison to the tone and sustain of the Gibsons in the mix. I still play my Fenders occasionally but the Gibsons shine!
Good grieve. Just ridiculous tones from both of you. Great playing as well gents. What a wonderful episode to watch 🤗🤗
This is peak TPS, one of my favourite episodes ❤
They sounded amazing at Fat Lil’s, as did Andy, of course. What an incredible event!
Still thinking of the terror that shot through my body when the strap on Dan’s SG gave out when I was holding it 😂
Jolly glad the finger healed up well! I can only imagine the language and anguish that was briefly experienced there!
Hi TPS, so Mick said, sometimes his brain doesn't work, well I'm not surprised when he comes out with expressions like " slow up or speed down" Lol. Great show guys, some awesome sounds from your gear and hands.
Absolutely loved the Leicester Gig, -you all sounded really great- and thanks for signing my pedals and huge thanks for being so gracious towards the cheerful drunk, it was so good to be that guy fo a change ( made me realise how important it is to take the time to spread a little love , even if I’m trying to get packed away after a gig👍🎸😀)
You did sound great - it did that cross out thing😳
Thanks so much for coming out mate 🤓🙏
That looked like a right nice show and crowd.
Mick, your clean Strat sound through the 2x 2-Rocks is beautiful.
Thanks for sharing your rigs and insights guys, always very informative and interesting and fun to watch(and hear 👂)Mick, I’m on a similar sound journey as you, trying to simplify a bit, looking for clarity, and also been doing a similar thing as you, not so much with the pedalboard which I’ve simplified (sort of 😅) to a pretty constant set of pedals that do what I need in most situations, but I’ve been choosing different amps for different gigs, even with the same band, but if we’re playing a more rock type venue I’ll probably grab a vintage voiced Marshall, if a bluesier venue it’s definitely one of my fenders, which changes with size of venue and sound of room, and I’m about to start a more British sounding band(I’m from California) and I’ll be taking my AC15.
Awesome episode!
Masterclass in minimalism for maximal punch. Absolutely sick tones out of the Les and the Leo.
good episode...it really comes down to "gig chops"...and nothing can replicate the real gigs with the band, on a stage, all the stimuli, etc.
The no LED phase 90 is by far the best! Compared to a script LED version, it's subtle but worth the difference.
Love the contrast between the two boards today
Boss Vocoder prices skyrocketing on Reverb this morning, no doubt!
That vocoder sounds like the Central Scrutinizer from Joes Garage!!!!!! Awesomeness
Such a great episode guys… I’m currently putting together a trio and going through similar revelations regards delays and verbs and Mick your thoughts re learn, routine, play… super insightful guys love it
Gotta say, that SG sounded immense at the Leicester gig. I can see why you like it so much.
Cheers mate, yeah, I’m smitten 🥰
Love this episode so much, but what i love even more is the idea of you guys doing a blindfold challenge for some fun!! Would be super interesting to see your perspectives on what you're hearing when doing the comparisons and ultimately what you end up picking with just your ears. Super fascinated by the idea!!! Please please do this for an episode 🙏🙏 Thanks for all you do!! Cheers from Central Oregon
Thank you for this. The idea of changing the board for each gig is GOLD. Not only is this great fun (get to change the train set every week) but it means I'm not struggling to use pedals that aren't doing the job I want them to! I don't know why: I got set on having a pedal board that was my "board for all occasions". Silly. Our setlist changes every week, so why not keep it fluid? Did this on Saturday and was in love with my sound all night.
Epic 🙏
I’m currently doing a similar thing as Mick as far as gain staging. I’m going RYRA Klone > Cornerstone Gladio SC > Xotic EP Booster. All gain levels set fairly low.
For me, the best overdrive sound you ever had Mick, was the Van Weelden!
"Build your tone around the music" ... oh mate such good advice ❤🤘great show and conclusion lads
When you guys mentioned the Gibson sounding better at the gigs than the fenders, it reminded me of something Tom Bukovec said once. He said, “ You ever notice when you go into a bar and you can always hear the guy playing the Gibson and you can rarely hear the guy playing the fender?”
Massive ELO fan and that Mr. Blue Sky story is hilarious, but honestly it works just fine given the limited resources to pull it off.
Cheers mate, was really fun to play
So glad to see more of the tube driver lately; it's such an awesome pedal!