Premier Guitar features affiliate links to help support our content. We may earn a commission on any affiliated purchases.

Rig Rundown: Murder by Death

Down-tuned axes and a thirst for experimentation fuel the rootsy indie-rock band’s sound.

Next up is a cool Gretsch G6120 Chet Atkins that is tuned down a whole-step to D.

Murder by Death’s bassist Matt Armstrong managed to squeeze in a quick interview and walk us through the band’s gear before their show in Nashville. The band’s spacey-meets-gothic vibe is powered by low-tuned axes, effect-laden cellos, and a unique approach to tone.

SWShopTheRigButton

Some names you’ve heard, others maybe not. But they all have a unique voice on the instrument.

Intermediate

Intermediate

• Open your ears to new influences.

• Understand how to create interlocking rhythm parts.

• Develop a new appreciate for the rhythmic complexity of Wayne Krantz, the effortless bebop of Biréli Lagrène, and the driving force that is David Williams.

{'file_original_url': 'https://roar-assets-auto.rbl.ms/documents/13841/Underrated-Feb22.pdf', 'id': 13841, 'media': '[rebelmouse-document-pdf 13841 site_id=20368559 original_filename="Underrated-Feb22.pdf"]', 'media_html': 'Underrated-Feb22.pdf', 'type': 'pdf'}

The guitar has been a major factor in so many styles of music over the last 70 years, and any experienced musician can tell you that playing any one of those styles with authenticity takes countless hours of dedication. As we learn the instrument, we seek out music that we find inspiring to help guide us toward our voice. The legends we all know in the guitar pantheon have inspired millions of players. In my musical journey over the years, I’ve always been thrilled to discover unique musicians who never attained the same recognition as their more famous counterparts. With so much music at our disposal these days, I thought this group of guitarists deserved a little more spotlight. The inspiration and knowledge they have provided me were paramount in my development, and I wouldn’t be the player I am without them.

Read MoreShow less

Seven previously-unheard Bruce Springsteen records will be released for the first time this summer with “Tracks II: The Lost Albums,” coming June 27.

Read MoreShow less
- YouTube

The guitarist-of-all-trades runs us through his formidable live rig.

Read MoreShow less

Sterling by Music Man introduces the Joe Dart Artist Series Collection, featuring the Dart I, II, and III basses.

Read MoreShow less