Guitar Journal: Van Halen, Aquariums, & Wes Borland
Eddie's Frankenstein, crazy aquarium guitars and virtual Nu-Metal rigs
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This week, we look at some great guitar videos online. First, we watch a new mini-documentary, The Journey to Frankenstein, about Eddie Van Halen. Then, we look at the Aquarium Guitar, a water-filled, working aquarium inspired by AI. Finally, we check out the STL sounds Wes Borland plugin, which recreates the Limp Bizkit guitarist’s rig.
Guitar Journal
The Journey to Frankenstein
A new YouTube mini-documentary, Icons Remembered, offers a captivating glimpse into the early days of Eddie Van Halen’s guitar journey. In less than 10 minutes, we witness the evolution of his iconic style, starting with his first guitar, a Teisco Del Rey, which he received at the age of 12 in 1967.
It has been four years since the legendary guitarist passed away, so this little slice of history is well-timed and most welcome.
In his own words
The documentary’s standout feature is its use of Eddie’s own audio recordings. This personal touch creates a truly immersive experience as if the legendary guitarist were narrating his story. It’s a must-watch for fans and a fitting tribute to one of the most influential musicians of our time.
EVH Gear
EVH currently produces an affordable version of this legendary guitar, so fans can get one without destroying as many guitars as Eddie. Thankfully, he left the world with many ideas and innovations which still impact the guitar industry.
Aquarium Guitar
The Aquarium Guitar was based on AI designs online and brought to life by Burls Art. The guitar is a working aquarium, so the build had to meet some very specific criteria.
Diver Down
The guitar’s body, shaped like a cross between a Gibson Explorer and an Ibanez Iceman, is crafted from epoxy to ensure watertight integrity. It’s filled with water, plants, and even some tiny creatures. I’m not sure how these affect the tone, but you could experiment with that aspect of the guitar.
Water Tight
The biggest challenge was ensuring the water didn’t leak out, but Burls Art sealed it up tight with epoxy and other stuff. He also had to be careful when adding the guitar’s electronics and hardware.
The guitar is playable, although it’s a bit heavy and awkward. It sounds pretty good, too, considering it’s a fish tank. Burls says you must be careful not to spill water while playing it.
So, if you’re looking for a unique instrument that’s also a conversation starter, this guitar aquarium might be just what you need.
Wes Borland
Guitarists looking to capture Limp Bizkit’s iconic nu-metal sound can now do so with the new Tonality: Wes Borland plugin. Developed in collaboration with Wes Borland, this software suite meticulously recreates his signature amps and effects.
Limp Bizkit Amps
The plugin features a trio of amps: the Roland JC-120 Jazz Chorus, the Diezel VH4, and the Selmer Zodiac 50 MKII Tremolo. These amps and five carefully selected pedals have been carefully modelled to provide players with an authentic Wes Borland experience.
The Effects
Wes Borland’s signature effects chain includes a mix of classic pedals. He uses the Electro-Harmonix Mini Q-Tron and Big Muff Pi for pre-amp effects. Post-amp, he relies on the BOSS DD-8, Dunlop Echoplex Delay, and the rare Ibanez CF7.
To complete the setup, he uses custom–painted speaker cabinets that match his unique aesthetic.
Virtual Nu-Metal
With Tonality: Wes Borland, you can harness the power of Borland’s legendary tone and add a touch of nu-metal to your music.
STL Tones Tonality is a 64-bit VST/AU/AAX that runs on Mac OS 10.9 or Windows 7. It offers a free trial, so you can try it before you commit to purchasing.
MSRP – $149
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