If you’re a fan of death metal, guitar gear, or Six Feet Under’s dark, brutal sound, you won’t want to miss this exclusive interview with guitarist Jack Owen. In this article, we break down the most compelling insights from Owen’s conversation with Loaded Radio, including his gear choices, songwriting process, and the story behind some of the band’s most iconic riffs. Whether you’re a guitarist looking for inspiration or a metal enthusiast eager to learn more about Owen’s career, this listicle offers an inside look into one of death metal’s most influential players.
1. The Evolution of Jack Owen’s Guitar Tone
Jack Owen discusses how his guitar tone has evolved over the years, transitioning from his early days with Deicide to his work with Six Feet Under. He emphasizes the importance of amp settings, pickup selection, and effect pedals, especially his use of high-gain amps like Peavey 5150 and Mesa Boogie Dual Rectifier. Owen’s tone is characterized by its thick, heavy distortion that cuts through the mix, making it a signature sound in death metal. Understanding his approach can help aspiring guitarists craft their own brutal tones.
2. Favorite Guitar Gear and Equipment
Owen reveals his preferred gear, including his go-to guitars like the ESP LTD M-1000 and his use of Seymour Duncan pickups, notably the JB and Distortion models. He also shares insights into his pedalboard, highlighting the use of noise gates, EQs, and overdrive pedals to tighten his sound. Owen’s gear choices are tailored for maximum sustain and clarity in complex, fast riffs, making them worth studying for serious metal players.
3. The Creative Process Behind Iconic Riffs
In this segment, Owen discusses how he approaches songwriting, often starting with a rhythmic idea or a particular groove. He emphasizes the importance of groove and atmosphere, blending melody with brutality. Owen also shares stories about specific riffs from albums like “Alive and Dead” and “Warpath,” explaining how they came to life in the studio. This insight is valuable for guitarists looking to develop their own memorable riffs.
4. The Influence of Other Musicians and Genres
Owen credits guitarists like Dave Murray of Iron Maiden and Chuck Schuldiner of Death as major influences, along with the broader thrash and death metal scenes. He discusses how these influences helped shape his technical approach and songwriting style. Recognizing these inspirations can help players appreciate different techniques and incorporate them into their playing.
5. Memorable Moments from Touring and Recording
Jack Owen shares behind-the-scenes stories from touring with Six Feet Under and recording sessions that stand out. He talks about the challenges of live performance, the camaraderie among band members, and the creative energy during studio recordings. These anecdotes provide a glimpse into the life of a professional metal musician and highlight the dedication required to sustain a career in the genre.
6. Advice for Aspiring Metal Guitarists
Owen offers practical advice for beginners and intermediate players, stressing the importance of practicing scales, learning song structures, and developing a unique style. He encourages guitarists to study their favorite bands but also to experiment and find their own voice. His tips include focusing on rhythm playing and timing, which are crucial in death metal’s complex arrangements.
7. The Future of Six Feet Under and Jack Owen’s Personal Projects
Owen discusses upcoming plans for Six Feet Under, including potential new album ideas and tours. He also mentions personal projects and collaborations outside the band, emphasizing his passion for exploring different musical styles. Fans can look forward to new material that maintains the band’s signature brutality while pushing creative boundaries.
8. How to Choose the Right Guitar Gear for Death Metal
When selecting gear, Owen suggests considering the guitar’s sustain, pickups, and amp settings, rather than just brand names. He recommends trying different pickups and amp configurations to find the tone that suits your playing style. Owen’s approach underscores the importance of personalized gear setups in achieving a professional death metal sound.
9. The Role of Practice and Dedication in Mastering Metal Guitar
Owen emphasizes consistent practice, especially focusing on developing alternate picking, palm muting, and complex rhythms. He advises setting realistic goals and dedicating time daily to improve technical skills. His disciplined approach demonstrates that mastery in death metal guitar requires perseverance and passion.
10. Connecting with Fans and Building a Musical Legacy
Owen highlights the importance of engaging with fans through social media, live shows, and interviews. He believes that building a connection helps sustain a band’s legacy and inspires new generations of musicians. For aspiring artists, Owen’s advice is to stay authentic and committed to their craft, ensuring their music leaves a lasting impact.
How to Choose
Choosing the right guitar gear and techniques depends on your specific goals and playing style. Consider the type of metal you want to play—whether it’s fast and technical or slow and heavy—and select equipment that enhances those qualities. Pay attention to your comfort and how different pickups, amps, and effects affect your tone. Listening to recordings of your favorite players, like Jack Owen, can guide you toward gear that helps replicate or inspire their sound. Ultimately, experimentation and personal preference matter most in crafting your signature style.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What guitars does Jack Owen use? Owen primarily uses ESP LTD models, notably the M-1000 and the MH-1000, equipped with Seymour Duncan pickups.
- What is Jack Owen’s signature sound? His signature sound is characterized by thick, heavy distortion, tight palm muting, and a blend of melodic riffs with brutal heaviness, often achieved through high-gain amps and specific pickup choices.
- How does Owen approach songwriting? Owen starts with rhythmic ideas or grooves, focusing on atmosphere and groove, then builds riffs around those foundations, often collaborating with bandmates for refinement.
- What advice does Jack Owen give to aspiring metal guitarists? Practice consistently, focus on rhythm and timing, learn from your influences, and develop your own style by experimenting with gear and techniques.
- What upcoming projects does Six Feet Under have? Owen hints at new album ideas and touring plans, with a focus on maintaining their signature death metal sound while exploring new musical directions.
Final Thoughts
Jack Owen’s insights into his gear, creative process, and career offer valuable lessons for both aspiring and seasoned metal guitarists. His dedication to crafting a distinctive tone and his openness about influences and experiences make his interview a must-listen for fans of the genre. Whether you’re looking to refine your own sound or simply gain a deeper understanding of death metal guitar mastery, Owen’s story underscores the importance of passion, perseverance, and authenticity in musical success. Keep experimenting, stay dedicated, and let Owen’s journey inspire your own musical path.
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