josh travis 9-string guitar

Josh Travis's 9-String Guitar Mastery

By Thomas Moore
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Discover the innovative world of Josh Travis, the groundbreaking guitarist who's made waves with his unique 9-string guitar. This unconventional instrument has redefined heavy metal and alternative rock, captivating fans and musicians alike.

Josh Travis' journey began like any other guitarist, but it was his exposure to various genres and instruments that sparked his desire to push boundaries. His 9-string guitar, a signature model by ESP, is a testament to hiscarbonyl drive to evolve the conventional.

The Josh Travis Signature 9-String Guitar

The Josh Travis Signature Series guitar is a marvel to behold, a direct extension of Josh's musical vision. This instrument amalgamates cutting-edge design with traditional craftsmanship, offering unparalleled tone and playability.

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a person holding an electric guitar in their hand, against a black background with only the strings visible
a person holding an electric guitar in their hand, against a black background with only the strings visible
Video Lesson: Learn the Basics of Travis Picking on Acoustic Guitar
Video Lesson: Learn the Basics of Travis Picking on Acoustic Guitar
a blue electric guitar sitting on top of a table
a blue electric guitar sitting on top of a table

At its core lies a mahogany body, chosen for its robust, resonant qualities. It's topped with a comfortable 3-piece maple neck, featuring a fast, smooth satin finish. The ebony fingerboard, adorned with unique Josh Travis inlays, sports 24 extra-jumbo frets for seamless playability.

Expanded Soundscapes

The real magic of the 9-string lies in its ability to produce expansive soundscapes. With two additional strings (a high A and a low B), it offers an extended range, allowing Josh to explore new territories in his compositions.

an electric guitar sitting on top of a wooden stand next to a wall with holes in it
an electric guitar sitting on top of a wooden stand next to a wall with holes in it
an electric guitar sitting on top of a table
an electric guitar sitting on top of a table
an electric guitar sitting on top of a wooden table
an electric guitar sitting on top of a wooden table

These additional strings enable Travis to incorporate elements from diverse musical genres into his own distinctive style. The lower B string, in particular, brings a beefed-up bass presence, ideal for heavy riffs, while the high A string unlocks new realms for lead guitar parts.

Custom Electronics

The guitar's voice is further enhanced by its custom pickup configuration. A pair of Fishman Fluence Modern Humbuckers, combined with a Fishman Power Bridge, deliver a dynamic range that's equally formidable in clean and distortion-heavy settings.

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The guitar's Active EQ and Volume, Tone, and Blend controls allow for intricate tonal tweaking. This flexibility empowers Josh to dial in his signature sound, from powerful mids to sizzling highs or warm, rounded lows.

3 iconic Drop C guitar riffs (with tabs) #guitar #shrots
3 iconic Drop C guitar riffs (with tabs) #guitar #shrots
an electric guitar is shown against a black background with its neck cut out to show it's unique shape
an electric guitar is shown against a black background with its neck cut out to show it's unique shape
a wooden guitar sitting on the floor next to a chair
a wooden guitar sitting on the floor next to a chair
an electric guitar sitting on top of a wooden floor
an electric guitar sitting on top of a wooden floor
two red electric guitars sitting side by side
two red electric guitars sitting side by side
an electric guitar sitting on top of a stand
an electric guitar sitting on top of a stand

Josh Travis' Musical Approach

Josh Travis' musical journey is as inspiring as it is unique. Initially gaining notoriety as a member of The Ghost Inside, he later ventured into established acts like Terror and the solo project End.
Travis now sits at the helm of End., where he brings his 9-string guitar-and-compositional prowess to the fore.

The overriding theme in Josh's music is evolution. Computing his influences from across the musical spectrum, he consistently pushes the boundaries of heavy music. His 9-string guitar, an extension of this ethos, has become an icon of experimentation and innovation.

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Inspiring a New Wave of Guitarists

Josh Travis' work with his signature 9-string guitar has sparked a wave of curiosity and exploration among guitarists worldwide. From heavier genres like metal and hard rock to progressive acts and experimental artists, musicians are increasingly embracing unique tunings and alternate instruments.

a wooden guitar sitting on top of a metal table next to a black and white object
a wooden guitar sitting on top of a metal table next to a black and white object
three electric guitars are lined up on the floor, one is green and the other is black
three electric guitars are lined up on the floor, one is green and the other is black
an electric guitar is made out of wood
an electric guitar is made out of wood

By pushing the conventional boundaries, Josh Travis sets a new benchmark for guitarists. His innovative approach serves as a reminder that there's always more to explore, both in terms of technique and equipment.

In a world where too many musicians play it safe, Josh Travis dares to stand out, proving that innovation knows no limits. And in doing so, he's redefined what it means to be a modern guitarist, one 9-string at a time.

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