Digest

This podcast features an in-depth conversation with guitarist Paul Gilbert, covering his latest solo album "WROC," released with accompanying videos for each song. Gilbert reflects on his early musical influences, the development of techniques like sweep picking, and the formation and sound of his iconic bands Racer X and Mr. Big. He shares anecdotes about the recording process at Prairie Sun Studios, the unexpected success of Mr. Big's hit "To Be With You," and the financial realities of touring. The discussion also delves into his evolution of guitar gear, from early DIY efforts to his long-standing relationship with Ibanez, and his current live rig setup. Finally, Gilbert touches upon his struggles with hearing loss and the importance of hearing protection.

Outlines

00:00:00

Introduction, New Album "WROC," and Career Retrospective

The podcast begins with an introduction to guest Paul Gilbert and the announcement of his new solo album, "WROC." The conversation touches upon his past bands, Racer X and Mr. Big, and his early musical journey, including his initial interest in guitar and the influence of artists like Yngwie Malmsteen and the technique of sweep picking.

00:11:44

The Formation and Success of Racer X and Mr. Big

Paul Gilbert details the formation of Racer X in Los Angeles, their intense rehearsal schedule, and the influence of Mike Varney. He then discusses the formation of Mr. Big, stemming from connections with Billy Sheehan and Eric Martin, and the surprising global success of their hit song "To Be With You," which began as an unreleased demo.

00:23:34

Touring Realities and Guitar Gear Evolution

The discussion shifts to the financial realities and less glamorous aspects of touring with bands like Racer X and Mr. Big, including humorous anecdotes about past tour experiences. Gilbert then explores the evolution of his guitar gear, from early DIY approaches and influences like Eddie Van Halen to his enduring relationship with Ibanez and the design of his signature models.

00:35:44

Amplifiers, Tone, and Hearing Protection

Gilbert traces the evolution of his amplifier setups, from early Marshalls to his current reliance on Fender Twins with pedalboard distortion for live shows. The conversation touches on AC/DC's tone and the use of Divided By 13 amps. A significant portion is dedicated to his struggles with hearing loss and the challenges of finding effective hearing protection, ultimately leading him to use earplugs.

00:44:04

"WROC" Album Details and Future Plans

The final segment provides details about the new album "WROC," including its release, label, and the innovative approach of releasing a live-in-the-studio video for each song. The pronunciation of "WROC" is clarified, and plans for an upcoming tour with Jeff Martin on drums and the band featured in the videos are confirmed.

Keywords

Q&A

• What is the significance of the album title "WROC"?

  The album title "WROC" is intentionally spelled to be pronounced as "rock," a phonetic choice by Paul Gilbert.

• How did Paul Gilbert and Billy Sheehan initially connect?

  They connected through opening for Sheehan's band Talas, Gilbert teaching at Musicians Institute, and encounters at shows where their respective bands played.

• What was the recording process like for the early Racer X albums at Prairie Sun Studios?

  Early Racer X albums were recorded at Prairie Sun Studios with a low-budget approach, involving basic accommodations and a focus on quick production.

• How did the song "To Be With You" become a hit for Mr. Big?

  "To Be With You" started as an unreleased demo that gained traction through rehearsal tapes and eventually became a hit after a rogue DJ played it, despite initial label skepticism.

• What is Paul Gilbert's current approach to live guitar tone?

  For live performances, Paul Gilbert uses a clean Fender Twin amplifier and shapes his tone entirely through his pedalboard.

• What challenges did Paul Gilbert face with hearing protection?

  Paul Gilbert has experienced hearing loss and found in-ear monitors and headphones uncomfortable or ineffective, ultimately opting for earplugs for hearing preservation.

Show Notes