Tim Henson of Polyphia: Redefining the Boundaries of Guitar Playing

Interview with Tim Henson: Insights on New Polyphia Record and Guitar Design

Introduction to the Interview

• Rick Beato introduces Tim Henson, a guitar virtuoso from Polyphia, highlighting his return for an interview about the new record.

• Tim reflects on their last meeting in Atlanta over a year ago, indicating the time elapsed since then.

Discussion on New Guitar Design

• Tim shares his excitement about a new electric classical Ibanez guitar he discovered while touring Europe in 2020.

• He describes finding a unique nylon string guitar in a pawn shop in Cologne, Germany, which inspired him due to its thin S-shaped body and upper fret access.

Development of the Guitar Model

• After purchasing the guitar for 700 euros, Tim began experimenting with it and found it suited Polyphia's riffs well.

• He learns that this model was commercially unsuccessful when released in 1998 but sees potential for its revival now.

Negotiations with Ibanez

• Tim discusses initial hesitations from Ibanez regarding producing this model again, especially after Tosin Abasi had previously attempted without success.

• He recounts how Tosin offered to build him a similar guitar if Ibanez declined, showcasing camaraderie among musicians.

Convincing Ibanez to Produce the Guitar

• Despite doubts about getting approval from Ibanez, they eventually agreed after seeing demand through comments on social media and demo videos.

• Tim compiled screenshots of fan requests for such a guitar along with demo recordings to persuade them further.

Prototyping Process

• The first prototype lacked design elements like neck inlays but was crucial for testing functionality.

• Initial prototypes faced issues; one had an incorrectly glued bridge that affected intonation.

Guitar Design and Personal Experience

Initial Impressions of the Guitar

• The speaker expresses excitement about playing a new guitar, noting its ease of play and surprising resonance despite its thin design.

• After initial issues with intonation, the manufacturer acknowledges the problem and decides to create a new prototype.

The Unique "Bread" Guitar

• The second prototype features a distinctive white top that resembles bread, leading to its nickname.

• This guitar was gifted to Steve Vai as a token of appreciation for his mentorship during their record collaboration.

Transitioning Between Guitars

• Following challenges with the first factory, the speaker decided to develop an entire line of "Tree of Death" guitars.

• Despite mixed feedback on the appearance of the "bread" guitar, it eventually gained popularity among fans.

Playing Style Adjustments

• The speaker discusses adapting to different string spacing and resistance when transitioning from electric guitars to nylon-stringed instruments.

• They note that moving from electric guitars to electric nylon is easier than transitioning to full nylon guitars due to differences in feel.

Recording Process Insights

• Most recording took place in various studios due to construction at their main studio; sessions were held in LA and Detroit.

Haunted Airbnb Experience

The Setting and Atmosphere

• The session takes place in a haunted Airbnb, described as having "the worst vibes imaginable."

• Elder bugs swarm outside, creating an unsettling environment; the narrator feels particularly uneasy being alone upstairs.

• The bathroom features a creepy red light bulb and a figurine, enhancing the eerie atmosphere.

Creative Process Amidst Disturbing Vibes

• Despite the unsettling environment, they manage to write music, including glitch-inspired tracks.

• Transitioning to recording drums at Metro 37 Studios leads to dissatisfaction with their initial approach due to poor sound quality.

Recording Challenges and Solutions

Sound Quality Issues

• Initial recordings are deemed unsatisfactory; the mix lacks clarity compared to previous work on "Playing God," which was completed in 2020.

• They refer to demo versions as "beat versions," indicating a focus on rhythm rather than full instrumentation during early tracking.

Experimentation for Better Sound

• Inspired by Wolf Pack videos, they explore unconventional recording spaces (like staircases) for tighter drum sounds.

• Acknowledges that traditional overhead mics create too much ambiance; seeks drier sound environments for better clarity.

Studio Design Considerations

Studio Layout and Functionality

• Discussion about building a new studio with specific design elements aimed at achieving optimal sound quality.

• Reflecting on past mistakes in studio design, such as poorly placed mic panels leading to cable management issues.

Collaboration with Professionals

• Hiring experienced professionals like Gavin Haverstick ensures thoughtful planning of studio layout and functionality.

Aesthetic Choices in Studio Design

Cleanliness and Minimalism

• Emphasis on maintaining a clean workspace; cables are hidden behind furniture for aesthetic appeal.

Studio Decor and Accomplishments

Discussion on Studio Aesthetics

• The speaker discusses the removal of old decor, specifically fake trees, and the purchase of two new ones that complement the studio's aesthetic.

• Mention of a milestone achievement: receiving a 1 million subscriber plaque, with plans to create a video showcasing it in the studio.

• The idea of displaying accomplishments in unconventional places like bathrooms is humorously suggested as part of their decor strategy.

Reflections on Past Recording Experiences

• The speaker reflects on past experiences in recording studios where aesthetics were not prioritized; they emphasize how modern bands must consider visual presentation for video content.

• Anecdotes about various rehearsal spaces highlight challenges faced by bands, including financial constraints and subpar conditions.

Challenges in Rehearsal Spaces

Experiences with Poor Facilities

• Describes practicing in inadequate facilities such as U-Haul storage spaces lacking climate control.

• Shares memories of rehearsing in an old office building with outdated decor reminiscent of 'The Office' show, emphasizing the unappealing environment.

Creative Solutions for Video Production

• Discusses strategies used to make poor-quality rehearsal spaces look better on camera by rearranging furniture and using black-and-white filters to obscure details.

• Highlights their journey from being a YouTube band to touring globally while maintaining focus on visual appeal during performances.

Social Media's Role in Music Promotion

Transition from YouTube to Concert Tours

• The transition from creating content on YouTube to performing live concerts is noted as significant for their growth as a band.

Importance of Social Media Exposure

• Emphasizes social media's critical role in promoting music today, suggesting that building an online following is essential for success.

The Impact of TikTok on Music Industry

Current Trends and Challenges

• Discussion about how TikTok has become a dominant platform for music promotion, influencing record labels' strategies towards short-form content creation.

Concerns About Long-Term Success

• Questions arise regarding whether viral success on platforms like TikTok translates into tangible outcomes such as ticket sales or long-term fan engagement.

The Impact of Social Media and AI on Music

Changing Landscape of Music Promotion

• Discussion on how TikTok's shift towards talking videos is affecting music promotion, making it less reliable for labels that depend on viral content.

• The rapid evolution of platforms raises questions about the longevity and adaptability of artistic expression across different media.

Artist Experience in a Viral World

• Notable artists like Steve Lacy face challenges as audiences often only recognize snippets (15 seconds) of their songs, leading to a disconnect during live performances.

The Role of AI in Music Creation

• Anticipation around AI-generated music, with potential tools capable of creating complex riffs similar to established artists, raising concerns about job security in creative fields.

• Comparison between current AI capabilities and past sampling practices in hip-hop; questioning the creativity involved in using AI versus traditional methods.

Emotional Depth vs. Artificial Creation

• Debate over whether AI can replicate the emotional depth that human artists bring to their work; acknowledgment that while AI can produce art, it often lacks soul.

Technical Challenges in Modern Music Production

• Observations on the uncanny nature of AI-generated images and how they can misrepresent reality, paralleling issues faced by musicians when engaging with technology.

Mastering Complex Techniques

Breakdown of Musical Techniques

• Inquiry into challenging musical techniques demonstrated during a video breakdown; emphasis on learning difficult patterns through practice.

Importance of Muscle Memory

• Discussion on the necessity for musicians to practice until techniques become second nature, allowing them to perform without conscious thought while engaging with an audience.

Unique Sound Through Unnatural Patterns

Guitar Techniques and Production Insights

Pitch Shifting and Effects

• The speaker discusses using pitch shifting on guitar tracks, specifically raising the pitch an octave to create a doubling effect.

• Artifacts are a concern when changing pitch; using the "Complex Pro" setting in Ableton helps minimize these artifacts for a cleaner sound.

• By doubling the track and spreading it wide, the speaker achieves an ambient effect without needing extensive double tracking.

Layering Sounds for Depth

• The main vocal or bass remains centered while the octave-up track adds atmospheric qualities, functioning like backing vocals.

• The discussion highlights how this technique predates AI music generation, emphasizing creativity with plugins like Omnisphere.

Sample Usage in Modern Production

• Producers often utilize platforms like Splice for samples, which can lead to original sounds but also raises questions about creativity versus reliance on pre-made loops.

• Many top-chart songs incorporate Splice samples, showcasing a trend where producers leverage existing material rather than creating entirely new compositions.

The Evolution of Music Production Tools

• Splice has been around since approximately 2013 and offers various samples and loops through a subscription model, reflecting changes in production methods over time.

• Historically, producers used hardware like NPC machines before transitioning to software tools such as Ableton for beat creation.

Future of Music Creation and Live Performance

• A hypothetical scenario is presented about duplicating a single melodic sample from Splice to create different songs for streaming platforms.

Robots Composing Music?

Concept of Robots in Music Creation

• Discussion about the idea of using robots to perform music in a live setting, filmed as if it were a concert experience.

• The concept includes robots composing symphonies and performing them, although this idea did not materialize.

Collaboration with Chino from Deftones

• Mention of Chino Moreno's connection through an old manager who attended high school with him; both hail from Sacramento.

• The speaker expresses admiration for Chino's vocal abilities and considers him a great fit for their music.

Recording Sessions Insights

• Notable changes in musical style within the song, highlighting transitions between halftime and dance beats.

• Original demo tracks were scrapped, leading to new compositions around Chino's vocals during recording sessions.

Production Techniques Discussed

Importance of Bass Dynamics

• Emphasis on leaving space in bass parts to enhance impact when they drop out and return.

• Discussion on how songs often start as beat versions, making it easier to visualize arrangements similar to trap or EDM styles.

Mixing Strategies

• Explanation of blending eight-string guitar tones with bass by EQing low ends out to create room for other elements.

• Description of layering bass with 808 sounds while cutting specific frequencies to achieve a cohesive sound.

Final Mixing Considerations

Understanding the Elements of Rap Music

Key Components of Rap Music

• The foundational elements of rap music include drums, bass, melodic parts, and vocals. These components are distinct and clearly audible in the mix.

• In contrast to rap, metal music often lacks low-end frequencies; many metal records do not emphasize bass as much as they could.

Hybridization of Genres

• The goal is to create a hybrid sound that combines elements from both rap and metal genres. This involves ensuring that the music sounds good when played in a car.

• To achieve this hybrid sound, electronic kicks replace traditional kicks, allowing for better shaping of low-end frequencies using 808 sounds.

Mixing Techniques

• A key technique is to avoid constant low-end presence to prevent muddiness in the mix. Sometimes the 808 bass can be used without the kick for clarity.

• In hip-hop production, it’s common for listeners to mistake bass notes for kick sounds due to blending techniques used in samples.

Innovative Production Strategies

• An interesting production technique discussed is placing the kick on the snare hit. This method can enhance rhythmic impact but may be frowned upon by some drummers.

• Using fake-out drops where expectations are subverted (e.g., anticipating a slam on one beat but delivering it on another) adds an engaging element to tracks.

Mixing Process Insights

Listening Tests and Environments

• The mixing process involves various listening tests: band members listen together or individually at home while making notes.

• Essential tests include car tests, AirPods tests, phone tests, laptop tests, and proper speaker evaluations to ensure sound quality across different devices.

Importance of Clarity in Mixing

• During phone testing, clarity is crucial; producers check if they can hear all elements distinctly through stereo speakers.

• Historically, checking bass levels involved using older technology like Mac laptops; now it's essential due to increased mobile listening habits.

Vocal Levels and Final Adjustments

Collaboration and Mixing Techniques

Collaborative Note-Taking Process

• The note-taking process involves collaboration primarily between the speaker and Scott, who compile notes before sending them to the Clays for approval or feedback.

• Feedback from the Clays is usually minimal; they may request specific adjustments, such as enhancing the presence of drums in a mix.

Mixing Considerations

• A "quiet test" is performed to ensure that tracks sound good at lower volumes, emphasizing that energy must be present even when not blaring.

• The mixing engineer, Zach Savini, receives well-organized stems grouped by instrument types (e.g., guitars, bass), which simplifies the mixing process.

Pre-Mixing Strategies

• Tracks are pre-mixed with leveled audio to avoid time-consuming adjustments during mixing; this allows focus on sound design rather than basic leveling.

• The composition process considers mix elements from the start, inspired by artists like Skrillex whose music features intricately designed sounds fitting together like puzzle pieces.

Sound Design and Composition

• Modern pop music often incorporates sound design where each element stands out while still fitting into a cohesive whole; this requires careful selection and shaping of sounds.

• Leaving space in compositions—both EQ-wise and through panning—is crucial for creating impactful moments within a track.

Intentionality in Music Production

• Every aspect of production is intentional; techniques like "writing the mix" involve giving attention to each bar throughout an entire song for dynamic evolution.

• This record marks a significant engagement with sound design, blending different styles (e.g., guitar parts from both Tim and Scott).

Innovative Techniques in Mixing

• The approach includes chopping up vocal samples to fit melodies seamlessly, referred to as "mirroring," ensuring synchronization between layers for an interesting blend.

• As songs progress, they evolve while returning to familiar themes; this technique keeps listeners engaged through unexpected transitions.

Unique Sampling Methods

Playing God: Behind the Scenes

The Creation Process of "Playing God"

• The demo sent to Ibanez only included the first half of "Playing God," lacking the second half, which features intricate melodies and arpeggios.

• The final section of "Playing God" was completed in a single night after an inspired session, emphasizing the importance of real instruments over plugins for authenticity.

• A humorous lesson learned about using Fiverr for hiring musicians—always purchase a commercial license to avoid issues later on.

Instrumentation and Collaboration

• Discussion about whistling; while attempting to surprise band members with a whistle part, it was revealed that age has affected the ability to hit high notes.

• The guitar part is characterized by jazz influences, specifically minor two-fives and unique chord progressions that deviate from standard structures.

Guitar Techniques and Influences

• The song's structure resembles a 12-bar blues format but is more aligned with a minor blues style, showcasing creative expansions in guitar techniques.

• Acknowledgment of learning from both classic virtuosos like Steve Vai and modern players such as Guthrie Govan, highlighting the evolution of guitar playing styles.

Continuous Learning and Growth

• Emphasis on expanding one's musical repertoire through various techniques, including Flamenco styles introduced by newer artists on platforms like YouTube.

• Recognition that mastering these techniques requires practice and experience; there's excitement about developing a diverse set of skills over time.

Closing Remarks