Check out Guitar World's latest instructional DVD, Heavy Metal Hybrid Picking featuring Dave Davidson.

With more than 60 minutes of lessons, you'll learn how to combine sweep picking with fingerpicking, one-note-per-string arpeggios and hybrid picking double-steps.

Plus, you'll get access to:

• Zakk Wylde-style chicken pickin' techniques
• "Jimi Hendrix-chord" arpeggio rolls
• Hammer-ons, open strings, palm muting and note clusters
• Wide-interval licks with string skipping
• Legato seventh-chord arpeggios
• Whole-tone and diminished scale runs
• Blues organ licks

... and much more!

Please note: To access the written music for this DVD, insert the disc into your PC or Mac computer and browse the disc for the PDF.

Head to the Guitar World Online Store now!

This is an excerpt from the August 2014 issue of Guitar World. For the rest of this story, plus features on the Who's Quradophenia, Soundgarden, Jackson Guitars, David Crosby, our Summer Tour Survival Guide, columns, tabs and reviews of new gear from Jackson, Ibanez, Blackstar, Musicvox, EarthQuaker Devices, Electra Guitars and more, check out the August 2014 issue at the Guitar World Online Store.

With its introduction 30 years ago, the Jackson Soloist pioneered the “Super Strat” design that defined metal guitars. The new limited-run 30th Anniversary Soloist celebrates the guitar’s legacy and long-sustaining life.

Introduced 30 years ago, the Jackson Soloist is one of the archetypal modern metal guitars—a sharp-edged, high-performance machine loaded with all the heavy-duty, precision-calibrated hardware needed to execute today’s extreme-metal moves.

Much of the style, and many of the features, we associate with contemporary metal guitar craft originated with the Soloist. For master guitar builder Mike Shannon, working on the Soloist with company founder Grover Jackson back in the early Eighties was a career-defining moment.

“I still have the original template that was used for control placement,” Shannon says, “and the original fixture that we used on the pin router to cut the neck and head shape.”

At one point in the company’s history, Shannon was told to discard these items. He didn’t comply.

“There’s no way I’m throwing away vintage stuff,” he says. “I knew there was going to be a use for it some day.”

That day came for Shannon when he was asked by Fender Musical Instruments Corporation, which currently owns the Jackson brand, to put together a limited-run 30th Anniversary Soloist model. In the three decades that have elapsed since its 1984 inception, the Soloist has proven to be one of Jackson’s most enduring and highly imitated designs.

It’s an instrument that has found favor with a metal-centric roster of influential guitarists, including Phil Collen, Scott Ian, Jeff Beck, Brad Gillis, Chris Broderick, David Ellefson and Chris Beattie, among many others. And while the design arose from the “pointy-guitar” aesthetic of the hair-band Eighties, it has clearly outlived the age of spandex and hairspray.

The Soloist is one of the archetypal designs that came out of luthier Grover Jackson’s early period, when he assumed control of Charvel Guitars in Glendora, California, and launched the Jackson brand in 1980.

The company’s first guitar was the Concorde, a metalized Flying V remake created in collaboration with Randy Rhoads. With that triumph under their belts, Jackson and his crew turned their attention to the “Super Strat” concept—an update of the classic Fender Stratocaster, designed for the high-performance demands of the virtuoso shred-guitar style being pioneered at the time by players like Rhoads, Eddie Van Halen, Yngwie Malmsteen, Steve Vai and others.

Jackson’s first Super Strat, and a major precursor to the Soloist, was the Dinky, so named because the body was 7/8ths the size of a Stratocaster body, with Leo Fender’s original rounded contours reconfigured as sharp points on the upper-body bouts.

“It sharpens the look, rather than it being rounded over,” says Shannon, who worked on the Dinky as well.

“Also, the idea was to make the body more comfortable for some players and probably take some of the weight off, although your choice of woods would also influence the weight quite a bit. And with the way the style of music was headed, it was a perfect change to get away from your everyday Strat that had been around for 40 years at the time.”

But whereas the Dinky was a bolt-on neck design, Jackson, Shannon and co-designer Tim Wilson wanted to create a Super Strat with the same kind of neck-through-body design that had been used on the Concorde.

Of course, the neck-through concept had been around at least since Paul Tutmark’s pioneering 1937 Audiovox 736 (the first electric bass), Les Paul’s circa 1941 “Log” guitar and the Gibson Firebird, which was introduced in 1963. It found even more widespread favor in the sustain-crazy Seventies through the work of companies like Alembic. But tons of sustain is also a major desideratum of many shred playing techniques as well, so Jackson decided to take the neck-through concept onboard.

“It seemed the right direction to go in,” Shannon says. “We figured, Well, everybody does a bolt-on; let’s see some new stuff. When we first started making neck-through guitars, we made them with three-piece maple center blocks, which required a lot of wood. But when we started making more than one Soloist at a time, we figured we’d go to one solid piece of maple. And ultimately, a year or two later, we updated to using quarter-sawn maple with a scarf joint and glued head.”

For the rest of this story, plus features on the Who's Quradophenia, Soundgarden, Jackson Guitars, David Crosby, our Summer Tour Survival Guide, columns, tabs and reviews of new gear from Ibanez, Blackstar, Musicvox, EarthQuaker Devices, Electra Guitars and more, check out the August 2014 issue at the Guitar World Online Store.

Eastman Guitars continues their 10th Anniversary celebration this July at the Summer NAMM Show in Nashville.

Eastman will be introducing several acoustic guitars from the new 00 Series models.

Earlier this year, Eastman Guitars unveiled the new 00 Series guitar line introducing the E1000 and E2000SS-Slope Shoulder at the NAMM Show in January.

Continuing to expand the series, Eastman is proud to introduce two utterly distinct models in the line – the all mahogany E1000-M and the Red Spruce/Rosewood E2000.

Visit the Eastman Guitars booth during the Summer NAMM Show at booth #1016.

Inspired by the iconic parlor style and handcrafted from all solid woods in the spirit of pre-WWII designs, our smaller bodied 00 models feature a premium blend of Adirondack spruce, solid mahogany and rosewood tonewoods, ebony fingerboards, bone nut and saddle, diamond volutes and period correct open-gear tuners.

The smaller upper bout coupled with a larger lower bout and thin soundbox makes the 00 a comfort to play and is favored by everyone from old blues players to folk and Americana, to guitarists of virtually any musical genre. The 00 transitions playing styles seamlessly from fingerstyle to strumming to a bottleneck slide. From the back porch to the stage to recording sessions in the studio, the 00 is a versatile guitar that fits into any player’s collection.

E1000-M (MSRP $1375)

All solid mahogany! The E1000-M is lightweight and strong, with a big sound emphasizing clear, bright and airy trebles. The guitar features a solid mahogany top with hand carved scalloped-X bracing, mahogany back & sides, and mahogany neck with ebony fingerboard adorned with mother of pearl dot inlays. The small-bodied 12-fret acoustic has a 24.9” scale length from the 1 13/16” bone nut to bone saddle, atop the ebony pyramid bridge. Completed with an elegant white line rosette, black binding and chrome Ping tuners. D’Addario strings and hardshell case included. Learn more about the E1000-M online: http://www.eastmanguitars.com/e10oo-m

E2000 (MSRP $1500)

The E2000 features a solid Adirondack spruce top (aka Red Spruce), hand carved scalloped-X bracing for a powerful yet balanced and mellow sound, and solid rosewood back and sides for superb resonance, with a deep warm bass. The guitar is fitted with a mahogany neck and ebony fingerboard adorned with pearl dot inlays. The 12-fret reduced 24 ¾” scale length body, from the 1 ¾” bone nut to the ebony bridge with bone saddle, makes for comfortable ease of playability. The slotted headstock is matched with a rosewood headplate and open-gear chrome ping tuners. The guitar is finished in a high-gloss and tortoise pickguard. D’Addario strings and hardshell case included. Learn more about the E2000 online: http://www.eastmanguitars.com/e20oo

For more information please visit online: www.EastmanGuitars.com

Award-winning brother/sister Bluegrass duo, The Roys, continue their creative momentum as they gear up for the September release of their fourth studio album, The View.

The project offers the truest representation of The Roys’ unique sound to date, and builds upon the duo’s success as songwriters, introducing 11 of their new compositions.

The brand new album is fueled by the loving, upbeat first single, “No More Lonely,” released to radio on June 10 and commercially to fans on June 24 via digital vendors including: iTunes, Amazon, Google Plus, Rhapsody and eMusic.

The View, a Rural Rhythm Records’ release, gives listeners The Roys’ most organic project yet, and features a fan-appealing mix of traditional bluegrass, country and gospel.

The duo’s previous RRR release, Gypsy Runaway Train (2013), helped to secure Lee and Elaine’s place on the global Bluegrass stage. In addition to earning the #1 spot on Sirius XM Bluegrass Junction’s Most Played Album Chart for the month of October 2013, the album jumped back up to the chart’s #2 spot last month. The reigning three-time Inspirational Country Music (ICM) Bluegrass Artist of the Year award winners proved their radio-friendly consistency with Gypsy, and look to further expand their appeal with The View.

In collaboration with some of today’s hottest songwriters, including Steve Dean, Larry Alderman, Jenee Fleenor and Keesy Timmer, as well as country star Josh Thompson, The Roys are once again poised to take their listeners on an amazing musical journey.

The View

Exploring a vast array of human emotions, The View resonates with diversity as it traverses the highs and lows of life. From the inspirationally-celebratory “Mended Wings” to the heartbreak of goodbye found in “Heaven Needed Her More,” to the powerfully poignant look at the life of an Alzheimer’s patient found in “Sometimes,” the duo tackles uncommon topics with grace, compassion and insight. Throughout the album, they are ably backed by band members Clint White (fiddle), Daniel Patrick (banjo) and Erik Alvar (bass).

The siblings teamed up with Hall of Fame and Grand Ole Opry icon “Whisperin’ Bill” Anderson to compose the disc’s title track. The song eulogizes Lee and Elaine’s grandparents’ final resting place at Saint Mary’s in New Brunswick, Canada. The lyrics and melody paint images of the small church overlooking the river so masterfully that one might ask if it is the view God sees while looking out his own window.

“Elaine and I poured our souls into this project,” Lee admits as he climbs aboard the bus for another whirlwind festival season. “We focused hard on writing what was in our hearts, used our band throughout, and recorded and produced it in our studio. It’s a bit unnerving to throw so much of ourselves out there, but we wanted this album to tell The Roys’ story,” he explains.

For Elaine, this project was a natural evolution. “For years, our fans have been telling us they really love the songs we write,” she notes. “We really wanted to explore that. Creatively involving the band in recording the album has helped us gel as performers and broadened a foundation we can continue to build upon. This album, more than anything we’ve done so far, has our signature on it - from beginning to end. We are very proud and excited for our fans to hear it,” Elaine adds enthusiastically.

Tour Dates:
Jul 15 Mineral Wells, WV – West Virginia Interstate Fair & Expo
Jul 24-27 Twin Lakes, WI – Country Thunder
Aug 03 Athens, OH – Athens County Fair
Aug 07-08 Richmond, MN – Minnesota Bluegrass & Old-Time Music Festival
Aug 09 Anita, IA – Oak Tree Opry
Aug 16 Gettysburg, PA – Gettysburg Bluegrass Festival
Aug 20 Staunton, VA – Bluegrass in the Park
Aug 22-23 Rogersville, NB, Canada – Rogersville Bluegrass Festival
Aug 25-26 New Richmond, Quebec, Canada – New Richmond Bluegrass Festival
Aug 28-29 New Richmond, Quebec, Canada – New Richmond Bluegrass Festival
Sep 20 Morehead, KY – Poppy Mountain Bluegrass Festival
Sep 27 Manteo, NC – Outer Banks Island Bluegrass Festival
Oct 01-04 Raleigh, NC – IBMA Convention
Oct 10 Rio Grande, OH – Bob Evans Bluegrass Festival
Oct 19 Orange Park, FL – Orange Park Fall Festival
Nov 01 McKinney Performing Arts Center – McKinney, TX
Nov 14 Crystal River, FL – St. Timothy Lutheran Church
Nov 22 Dunnellon, FL – Withlacoochee River BGF
Dec 13 Pigeon Forge, TN – Christmas in the Smokies
Jan 08-12, 2015 – Tampa, FL – Danny Stewart Bluegrass Cruise
Jan 18 Ft Lauderdale, FL – The Country Music Cruise

Find out more at theroysonline.com.

Glen Drover is best known as the former guitarist for Megadeth and is now an instructor on JamPlay. He teaches live and pre-recorded lessons.

In this lesson, Drover teaches a "mysterious" harmonic minor walk down in the key of E.

This lick can be played by using alternate picking, or alternatively as a blazing-fast legato run.

Check out the lesson video below — complete with video. For another JamPlay lesson on GuitarWorld.com, check out Andy James'"Three Pentatonic Hybrid-Picked Runs to Increase Speed and Dexterity."

Kenny "Blue" Ray is a life-long blues musician who has played with greats such as Stevie Ray Vaughan. Kenny also is a JamPlay instructor who teaches live and pre-recorded classes on blues guitar.

In this lesson, Kenny discusses 7th chords and how they can be used to enhance any blues progression.

He also demonstrates short forms of the chords that can be used for a softer sound. While discussing the 7th chords, he also talks about some of Jimi Hendrix's favorites.

Check out the lesson video below — complete with video. For more JamPlay lessons on GuitarWorld.com, check out Andy James'"Three Pentatonic Hybrid-Picked Runs to Increase Speed and Dexterity" and Glen Drover's Mysterious Harmonic Minor Walk Down.

PART 1

PART 2

PART 3

PART 4

Living Colour have announced a fall tour, which will celebrate their 30th anniversary. You can check out all the dates below.

The band also has announced a new album, Shade.

The group (vocalist Corey Glover, guitarist Vernon Reid, bassist Doug Wimbish and drummer Will Calhoun) is in the studio putting the finishing touches on Shade with producer Ron Saint Germain (U2, Sonic Youth, Bad Brains). Germain also was the engineer on the band's massively successful 1988 debut album, Vivid.

For a lot more info on the new album, check out this GuitarWorld.com exclusive, "Vernon Reid: Upcoming Living Colour Album Inspired by the Blues."

Shade is slated for a fall release.

Here are the band's tour dates:

Date City Venue
9/18 Toronto, ON The Opera House
9/19 Ferndale, MI The Magic Bag
9/20 Chicago, IL Park West
9/21 Minneapolis, MN Dakota Jazz Club
9/23 Kansas City, MO Knuckleheads
9/24 University City, MO Duck Room @ Blueberry Hill
9/26 Denver, CO The Summit Music Hall
9/27 Grand Junction, CO Mesa Theatre & Club
9/29 Seattle, WA The Triple Door
9/30 Portland, OR Aladdin Theatre
10/1 San Francisco, CA The Independent
10/3 Petaluma, CA Mystic Theatre
10/4 Los Angeles, CA The Roxy Theatre
10/5 Solana Beach, CA Belly Up Tavern
10/7 San Juan Capistrano, CA The Coach House
10/10 Dallas, TX The Kessler
10/11 Austin, TX The Belmont
10/12 Houston, TX Warehouse Live
11/28 New York, NY Irving Plaza
11/29 Londonberry, NH Tupelo Music Hall
11/30 Boston, MA Paradise Rock Club
12/1 Philadelphia, PA World Café Live
12/3 Stafford Springs, CT Stafford Palace Theatre
12/4 Newton, NJ The Newton Theatre
12/5 Ridgefield, CT Ridgefield Playhouse
12/6 Leesburg, VA Tally Ho Theatre
12/7 Hanover, MD Maryland Live Casino

Cute?

One could certainly find better adjectives to describe Shut Up & Jam!, Ted Nugent’s first studio album in seven years.

But that’s exactly how the Motor City Madman himself would describe this new collection of blues-inspired songs. Say what you will about his choice of words; it’s safe to say Nugent and his insatiable appetite for honky-tonk bastardization has never sounded better.

In addition to the tasty guitar work you’d expect from a Nugent album, highlights from Shut Up & Jam! include guest vocalist Sammy Hagar performing on the track “She’s Gone” and Nugent’s longtime musical cohort, Derek St. Holmes, showcasing his own soulful vocals on “Everything Matters."

The release of Shut Up & Jam! will coincide with another summer tour, during which Nugent will be — once again — joined by Holmes plus Greg Smith (bass) and Mick Brown (drums).

I recently spoke with Nugent about Shut Up & Jam!, his Gibson Byrdland and his Kamp For Kids, which just celebrated its 25th anniversary.

GUITAR WORLD: The music industry has changed so much in the last seven years. What made you decide to release a new studio album?

I'm such a lucky guy, having been 100 percent in charge of my life since I was a teenager. My outdoor lifestyle so cleanses, fortifies me and inspires me that whenever I pick up the guitar, fire comes off of the neck and those killer, grinding grooves happen all the time. Because I'm so involved with so many different aspects of my life and tour like an animal every summer, I just didn't put the logistics together to record these new songs. I finally couldn’t wait any longer. These songs have a fire in them, and I had to capture them.

Where do you find the inspiration for your riffs?

It goes back to the Amboy Dukes stuff. Even the Damn Yankees and the Ted Nugent band. Whenever I pick up my guitar, really fun, garage-band variations of what Chuck Berry, Bo Diddley and the original boogie-woogie honky-tonk guys comes out. You really feel that original rhythm and blues structure and pulse in a lot of those songs because those original black artists all inspired me with their work ethic and musical prowess. They constantly worked on perfecting their craft as well as sharing their art. That still exists for me.

Tell me about your collaboration with Sammy Hagar on “She’s Gone."

Sammy and I have had such a wonderful relationship over the years that he sacrificed some of his time to come in and sing on it. Thank God! It's the same with having Johnny “Bee” Badanjek playing drums on “She’s Gone." Everyone who worked on this album craves and celebrates the same original influences that I do. When you have a team that is so passionate about the music and worships the same herb-land tone, this is the album that happens. This one will go down in history as having masterpiece rhythm and blues, rock and roll songs, and I couldn't be more proud.

Many of the guys you’ve played with have said you like to challenge them. Why do you feel the need to challenge the musicians you work with?

Because all of my guys will tell you that every single one of my shows is the most important show on Earth. We recently did 40,000 in Sweden, but it doesn't matter if we play the House of Blues for a few thousand or at Cal Jam for half a million. We play the same way and let the music do the talking. Just think of all of the musicians I’ve surrounded myself with: Derek St. Holmes, Greg Smith, Mick Brown. Then there’s Dave Amato, Tommy Aldridge, Marco Mendoza, Denny Carmasi, Carmine Appice. They're all world-class virtuosos who are driven by the music. Not one person I've ever played with wanted to be a rock and roll star. They all wanted to be a musician.

When did the Gibson Byrdland become your weapon of choice?

I remember His Majesty Jimmy McCarty of the original Mitch Ryder Band used to play a Gibson Byrdland through a Fender Twin amp. Need I say more? There's a certain voice and quality to what a hand-carved, arched, spruce top hollow-body projects. The 3/4 scale neck is more maniputable and danceable for the fingers, and the tone is so compelling. It feeds back at such a low threshold that it actually makes you play it differently. That's why I originated the muffled thumping pedal tone. Because if you didn't mute the other strings with the meat of your right hand, it would just squeal and ring like crazy. But instead of avoiding them, I reasonably harnessed the squealing and howling of the Gibson Byrdland. It has a special touch and a special tone. That’s why I love it.

This year marks the 25th anniversary of the Ted Nugent Kamp for Kids. What made you decide to start it?

This camp I began on behalf of the great Fred Bear. He was one of the greatest conservationists and a sportsman who reinvented the bow hunting lifestyle. I remember on our last hunt together he gave me a bit of advice. He told me to ignore my critics and laugh in the face of my haters. He appreciated how effective my celebration and promotion of conservation was. He understood the importance of resource-stewardship environmentalism, gun safety and the honesty in killing your own food and balancing the herd, so that thanksgiving can actually be celebrated for the right reason. When he died, I translated his direction into maximizing my name and resources into teaching as many kids as possible about the quality of life that I've been blessed with because of my outdoor lifestyle.

The mission of this camp is to teach kids about where happiness and quality of life comes from and that it's available to everybody. We've graduated tens of thousands of kids and their families over 25 years. The Kamp for Kids is now in four states: South Dakota, Iowa, Nebraska and Colorado. We’re very proud of that.

What’s the most important thing you want kids to take away from your camp?

It's all about having a higher level of awareness. About being clean and sober in order to maximize the application of your senses, emotion, spirit and gifts from God. The American dream is only available to you in its optimum form if you're clean and sober and put your heart and soul into everything you do. It's the same whether you're painting a fence, tuning an engine, teaching a classroom or playing guitar.

Over the course of my career, I’ve been blessed to jam with guys like B.B. King, Jimi Hendrix, Eddie Van Halen and Billy Gibbons. In every case, I was able to pick up on their musical vision because of that higher level of awareness. I was trained to pay attention.

James Wood is a writer, musician and self-proclaimed metalhead who maintains his own website, GoJimmyGo.net. His articles and interviews are written on a variety of topics with passion and humor. You can follow him on Twitter @JimEWood.

Early last month, just as his Guitar Gods tour was getting off the ground, Yngwie Malmsteen visited the Guitar World studio in New York City.

Why? To melt some faces, of course!

If you missed our exclusive performance video from his visit, you can check it out RIGHT HERE.

Of course, Malmsteen also submitted himself to a quick-fire Q&A, during which he discussed his Guitar Gods tour, his signature Fender Stratocaster, effect pedals, his new line of Fender accessories and much more.

In the exclusive Guitar World video below, the venerable guitarist discusses how he compiles and changes his sets from night to night, his famous scalloped fretboards, the one pedal he can't perform without and more. Check it out below. For more of this exclusive Q&A, head HERE.

Seymour Duncan has released its new 805 Overdrive pedal.

From the company:

The Seymour Duncan 805 Overdrive is designed using the legendary 808 chip, but with an expanded gain range and an active 3-band EQ that isn't common on overdrives. It's so versatile that you can use it for a smooth, lyrical bluesy overdrive one minute and a modern metal crunch the next.

We started with the classic overdrive tones we all know and love but we tightened up the bottom end and added more sparkle in the highs as well as more detailed note articulation. Whether you're after ringing cleans, a subtle boost, fat crunch, or even screaming sustaining solo tones, it's all in there. And unlike other overdrives that become thin when you refine the gain, the 805's 3-band active EQ lets you take back control over the low end while also fine-tuning the mids and highs.

The 805 Overdrive can be used to give your sound a boost with full overtones or to provide harmonically rich heavy gain with warm tube character.

It's extensively developed and refined to be the perfect overdrive for pushing the front end of an already distorted amp, giving you plenty of output and tone-shaping capability whether you play hard rock, prog, metal, djent or whatever other heavy styles you'd like to throw at it. Whether you're running it into a clean channel or an utterly angry one, the sound remains natural and responsive. Like the Dirty Deed and Vapor Trail, the 805 is assembled at the Seymour Duncan Factory in Santa Barbara, California, and is true-bypass.

Specifications

Distortion Circuitry: Glass diode, back-to-back stack.
Bypass: True bypass
Gain Control Range: 8dB to 36dB.
EQ Center Frequencies:
• Bass – 90 Hz +/- 11dB
• Mid – 750 Hz +/- 11dB
• Treble – 2.1 kHz +/- 12dB
EQ Center Frequencies:
• Minimum gain, 20 to 20kHz – 112dBV
• Minimum gain, 400 to 20kHz – 114dBV
• Maximum gain, 20 to 20kHz – 97.5dBv
• Maximum gain, 400 to 20kHz – 98 dBV
THD @10mVrms input @ 1 kHz with 12 dB of gain: 0.15%
Max Output before Saturation: 0.6Vrms
Input Impedance: 470k Ohms
Output Impedance: 1k Ohms
Power: 9V battery or external 9 to 18V Regulated DC Adapter (center negative)
Current consumption: 4.5mA
Dimensions: 2.61” X 4.90” X 1.45”
Weight: -90dBV at output, 400Hz to 20kHz

For more information, visit seymourduncan.com.

The all-new August 2014 issue of Guitar World is available now!

In the August 2014 issue of Guitar World, we celebrate the 30th anniversary of Metallica’s renowned Ride the Lightning album. We talk to guitarist Kirk Hammett about the making of the album that revolutionized metal and put a jolt in the band’s career. Read about how the album showcased their musical maturity and willingness to take chances. Plus, Hammett and amplifier manufacturer, Randall, take their association to the next level with the KH103 Hammett signature head.

Then, Guitar World features the Who. Pete Townshend and Roger Daltrey struggled for years to create a successful live production of Quadrophenia. The surviving members of the band discuss how they finally achieved their goal.

Afterwards, we focus on the 20th anniversary of Superunknown. Soundgarden’s Kim Thayil and Chris Cornell talk about the album that made the band one of alternative rock’s biggest acts. Later, check out the history of the Jackson Soloist, which pioneered the “Super Strat” design that defined metal guitars.

Finally, the guitarists of Avenged Sevenfold, Morbid Angel, Trivium and other metal acts tell us how they will beat the heat and tame the crowds on the season’s biggest tours in our summer survival guide.

PLUS: Sleeper Agent, Nico Vega, Arch Enemy and much more!

Five Songs with Tabs for Guitar and Bass

• Metallica - "For Whom the Bells Toll"
• Soundgarden - "Fell on Black Days"
• The Who - "The Real Me"
• Pharrell Williams - "Happy"
• Game of Thrones - "Main Title Song"

Head to the Guitar World Online Store now!

Below, watch a pro-shot video of Robert Plant's complete set from last weekend's Glastonbury Festival.

As always, the former Led Zeppelin frontman's set is peppered with a host of Led Zeppelin favorites, including "Babe, I'm Gonna Leave You," which kicks off the video, and "Going to California," which starts around the 30-minute mark. "What Is and What Should Never Be" starts around the 51-minute mark. And there are more!

Enjoy!

Looking for a plectrum that dares to be different?

From Dunlop to Sik Pik to Planet Waves and beyond, Guitar World presents an assortment.

Take your pick!

1. Dava Grip Tips Delrin

Dava Grip Tips are the only picks with an over-molded rubber grip. The gripping area provides a comfortable nonslip surface that gives players more secure control. The pick’s tip is made of Delrin, which gives a smooth, fast release from the strings, not to mention excellent tone and superior durability.

LIST PRICE: Six-pack, $7.50, Davapick.com

2. Dunlop Tortex

It may not be new, but Tortex is the original innovative material for pick manufacturing, and Dunlop Tortex is the favorite pick of musicians worldwide. Tortex picks are carefully designed and manufactured to give the characteristic maximum memory and minimum wear that made tortoiseshell so popular in the first place.

LIST PRICE: 12 Picks/Players Pack, $5.70, jimdunlop.com

3. Awe-in-One Picks

Awe-In-One multi-edged picks combine thin, medium and thick gauges in each pick, allowing guitarists to change gauge quickly and easily. A unique indent prevents slippage, and by holding the picks at certain angles you can create harmonics, “pop” or “scratch” the string, and mimic the sound of a 12-string. The picks comes in four types: Folk Debut, Folk Power, Rock Vibes and Rock Licks.

LIST PRICE: $1.20, awe-in-one.com

4. The SnakePick

The SnakePick was created to shift guitarists’ focus from the pick to their playing. Although you hold it like a normal pick, it holds your finger as well, opening up new possibilities for playing technique, including picking with multiple fingers, and allowing you to play with more precise articulation. The Snakepick is available in different sizes and thickness.

LIST PRICE: Three-pack, $5.99, snakepick.com

5. Planet Waves Black Ice

Black Ice picks have a custom oversized shape that’s designed for speed picking with precise articulation. The picks are made of Planet Waves’ ultra-durable Duralin, which resists abrasion and provides balanced tone with a bright attack. Black Ice picks are triple-tumbled to create a soft-touch texture that’s very smooth, yet easy to grip.

LIST PRICE: 10-pack, $3.84; 100-pack, $29.74, planetwaves.com

06. Dunlop Max-Grip Nylon

The Max-Grip Nylon pick's molded gripping surface has a coarse grid that provides an unparalleled nonslip surface. The combination of Max-Grip and molded nylon material makes it perfect for speed pickers and hard strummers who want extreme precision and durability without losing control of their pick.

LIST PRICE: 12 Picks/Players Pack, $5.70, jimdunlop.com

07. Swiss Pick

It may look like a small wedge of fine Emmentaler, but there’s nothing cheesy about the Swiss Pick. Combining utility and innovative design, the pale-yellow pick’s off-center holes with raised edges provide a superior grip. The Swiss Pick is made of Delrin for exceptional tone and, despite its name, is produced right here in the United States.

LIST PRICE: Six-pack, $5.99, swisspicks.com

08. Sik Pik The Sik Pik puts a new twist, literally, on traditional pick design. Its twisted tip won’t click, drag or snap on the strings like a standard pick will. As a result, it glides across the strings, producing a smooth, round tone. The Sik Pik opens new possibilities for dynamic playing, allowing you to “play on the edge.”

LIST PRICE: $3; four-pick set, $10, sikpik.com

09. Planet Waves Cellu-Glo Cellu-Glo picks provide celluloid’s natural feel and warm tone in a glow-in-the-dark pick. The picks can be charged in natural sunlight or under a light bulb, and their glow adds a new visual element to your performance (it also makes the picks easy to find on dark stages). They’re available in light, medium, heavy and extra-heavy gauges.

LIST PRICE: 10-pack, $3.14; 25-pack, $6.99; 100-pack, $24.49, planetwaves.com

10. Blue Magic Pick

Though it’s many times larger than the typical plectrum, the Blue Magic pick is ergonomically designed to improve and enhance guitarists’ skills. Its three parts—head, body and scraper—let you hold the pick in a way that feels natural and use your strength to its full capacity, thereby allowing you to play more easily and precisely. The Blue Magic pick is available in light, medium and heavy gauges.

LIST PRICE: $5, three-pack, $15, bluemagicpick.com

11. Tonetek Heavy Metal pick

ToneTek’s Heavy Metal stainless-steel pick is one big chunk of metal, but its mass and density can increase string volume and sustain and fatten tone. Its edge is designed to glide across the top of the strings, allowing you to perform pick-hand slides and create new techniques that combine tapping, slides, sweeps and glissando, and it can be used to tap above the end of the fretboard.

LIST PRICE: $29.95, Tonetek.biz

Below, check out a new demo video from the makers of the SnakePick, which Guitar World covered in its February 2013 issue.

The SnakePick was created to shift guitarists’ focus from the pick to their playing. Although you hold it like a normal pick, it holds your finger as well, opening up new possibilities for playing technique, including picking with multiple fingers and allowing you to play with more precise articulation.

The SnakePick is available in different sizes and thickness.

For more about the SnakePick, check out the video below and visit snakepick.com.

It’s summer! Yahoo!!!

Time for sitting on the porch and strumming a tune or two, or three, or ten!

This is not a “best of” list, just a collection of great, easy to play songs that’ll put a smile on your face…and everyone’s around you, too!

So grab an iced tea, sit back and get your strum on!

“Three Little Birds” – Bob Marley and The Wailers

I love this song, for its simplicity and its message of optimism.

You know that every little thing is gonna be all right!

Long before Bobby McFerrin told us to, “Don’t Worry, Be Happy,” Bob Marley had it down.

The song appears on their 1977 album Exodus, and was released as a single in 1980.

“Three Little Birds” has been covered loads of times, including by artists like Billy Ocean, Connie Talbot, Jason Mraz and even Alvin and the Chipmunks.

Now it’s your turn! Check it out!

[Chorus]

A
Don't worry, about a thing

............D.......................................A
Cause' every little thing, gonna be alright

..............(A)
Singin' don't worry, about a thing

..............D........................................A
Cause' every little thing, gonna be alright

[Verse]

A
Rise up this mornin'

.........................E
Smile with the rising sun

.....................D........................A
Three little birds perch by my doorstep

...........(A)
Singin' sweet songs

......................E
Of melodies pure and true

............D..........................A
Sayin', this my message to you-oo-oo

“Hey There Delilah” – Plain White T’s

I know, this song has been played A LOT.

But it’s just the quintessential summer love song. Oh, it’s what you do to me. I mean, yeah!

The Plain White T’s released it in May 2006 as the third single from their third studio album All That We Needed.” It reached number 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in July 2007.

Its message is timeless. Love can conquer all obstacles.

Here you go…in the key of D.

[Verse]
D ...................................... F#m
Hey there Delilah, What’s it like in New York City?
..........D.............................................. F#m
I’m a thousand miles away, But girl tonight you look so pretty,
........Bm.......G..........................A..........................Bm
Yes you do, Time Square can’t shine as bright as you,
....................A
I swear it’s true.

[Chorus]
D..................................Bm.....D.............................Bm
Oh it’s what you do to me, Oh it’s what you do to me,
D................................. Bm....D..............................Bm
Oh it’s what you do to me, Oh it’s what you do to me,
.........................D
What you do to me.

“59th Street Bridge Song – Feelin’ Groovy” - Simon and Garfunkel

I personally remember singing this as a teenager in the summer, so it’s tried and tested!

This song appeared on this iconic duo’s 1966 album Parsley, Sage, Rosemary and Thyme. A truly amazing album in its entirety. If you’re too young to have listened to it, check it out.

"59th Street Bridge" is the colloquial name of the Queensboro Bridge in New York City. The song's message is immediately delivered in its opening verse: "Slow down, you move too fast." Perfect for summer I would say!!

D.........A ...............Asus2......A....D..............A ............Asus2........A
Slow down, you move too fast. You got to make the morning last. Just
D..........A .............Asus2......A....D..............A ............Asus2........A
kickin' down the cobble stones, lookin' for fun and Feelin' Groovy.
D...A..Bm7..A

”Rude” – Magic!

This must be the summer song of this summer, 2014!

Yes, I’ve heard it about a billion times on the radio, but the fun reggae groove and heartfelt message have me singing along every time.

And why DOES he have to be SO RUDE?!

Apparently it is based on a real life situation, modified somewhat to fit a band vibe.

"Rude" is the debut single by Canadian band, Magic! "Rude" was written by Nasri Atweh, Adam Messinger, Mark Pellizzer, Ben Spivak and Alex Tanas, and produced by Adam Messinger.

It’s burning up the charts. I hear it several times a day. Oh, the injustice of it all!

Capo 6 and play as written

[Verse]
C..............D................................Em.............Em
Saturday morning jumped out of bed and put on my best suit
C..............D............................Em.....Em
Got in my car and raced like a jet, all the way to you
C.........................D...............................G.............. Em
Knocked on your door with heart in my hand to ask you a question
C..........................D .................................G ................Em
Cause I know that you're an old fashioned man yeah yeah

[Pre Chorus]

C................................................D
Can I have your daughter for the rest of my life?
..........G/B..........................Em
Say yes, say yes, ‘cause I need to know
....................C..........................................D
You say I'll never get your blessings till the day I die
.............G................................. Em
Tough luck my friend but the answer is no!

[Chorus]

C..................... D.............. G........................... Em
Why you gotta be so rude? Don't you know I'm human too
C..................... D.............. G................Em
Why you gotta be so rude? I'm gonna marry her anyway
C....................D
Marry that girl (marry her anyway)
G .......................... Em
Marry that girl (yeah no matter what you say)
C..........................D
Marry that girl (and we'll be a family)
G......................Em..........C.....D .....G....Em
Why you gotta be so rude?

“Ventura Highway” – America

I used to be so in love with the songs from the band America, and “Ventura Highway” was no exception.

Those lilting, longing lyrics, the driving acoustic strum. “You wanna go, I kno-oo-o-oo-o-oo-ow.”

This song appeared on the band’s 1972 Homecoming album.

The song’s vocalist and writer Dewey Bunnell had this to say about the song’s inspiration in the booklet for the band’s boxed set. The song “reminds me of the time I lived in Omaha as a kid and how we'd walk through cornfields and chew on pieces of grass. There were cold winters, and I had images of going to California. So I think in the song I'm talking to myself, frankly: 'How long you gonna stay here, Joe?' I really believe that 'Ventura Highway' has the most lasting power of all my songs. It's not just the words — the song and the track have a certain fresh, vibrant, optimistic quality that I can still respond to."

The song went to #8 on the Billboard Top 40 Pop Charts for America, spending nine weeks on the charts after debuting on November 4, 1972.

For this one, capo 2 and play as written. Easy.

Capo 2

[Verse]
Fmaj7 ............................................................Cmaj7
Chewin' on a piece of grass walkin' down the road
Fmaj7 ...................................................Cmaj7
Tell me, how long you gonna stay here Joe?
Fmaj7..................................................Cmaj7
Some people say this town don't look good in snow
Fmaj7 ....................Cmaj7
You don't care, I know.

[Chorus]
Fmaj7...............................Cmaj7
Ventura Highway, in the sunshine
...................Fmaj7............................................................Cmaj7
Where the days are longer The nights are stronger than moonshine
Fmaj7 .................... Cmaj7
You're gonna go I know ooo-oh ooo-o-ooo-oh ooo-oh ooo-o-ooo-oh
.................Dm7...................... Em
Cause the free wind is blowin' through your hair
............. Dm7 ......................Em
And the day surrounds your daylight there
Dm7 ...................Em
Season's crying, no despair
....... Dm7............ Em .....................Fmaj7
Alligator, lizards in the air, in the air

“The Boys of Summer” – Don Henley

For some reason I have America and the Eagles in my head when I think of summer.

And that lead’s me to Don Henley’s “The Boys of Summer,” which was released in 1984.

The lyrics were written by Henley and music was composed by Henley and Mike Campbell.

It is the lead track and first single from Henley's album Building the Perfect Beast and reached the top five in the United States as well as the top position on the Top Rock Tracks chart and number 12 in the UK Singles Chart.

In a 1987 interview with Rolling Stone, Henley explained that the song is more about aging and questioning the past—a recurring theme in Henley's lyrics.

In 1986, Henley won the Grammy Award for Best Male Rock Vocal Performance for the song.

I remember hearing this song for the first time way back when. The distinct riff and the interaction of the melody and lyric caught me right away.
It’s super easy. Check it out.

[Verse]
Em
Nobody on the road, nobody on the beach.
C
I feel it in the air, the summer's out of reach.
D
Empty lake, empty streets, the sun goes down alone.
C
I'm driving by your house, though I know your not home.

[Chorus]
G..............................D
But I can see you, your brown skin shining in the sun.
........................C
You got your hair combed back and your sunglasses on, baby.
G ............................D
I can tell you my love for you will still be strong
................. C
After the boys of summer have gone.

“Upside Down” – Jack Johnson

Maybe just being laid back is what summer means to me.

And this song has an endearing patter to it that just feels good.

It was written, co-produced, and performed by Jack Johnson for the film Curious George, so perhaps that’s why it feels so sweet. It is the first track and only single on the album Sing-A-Longs and Lullabies for the Film Curious George, which was released in February 2006.

It peaked at #38 on the Billboard Hot 100 and was Johnson's sole US Top 40 hit until "You and Your Heart" in 2010. It has been certified Platinum by the RIAA for sales of over 1,000,000 in the US alone.

[Intro]
E..E..F#m..F#m

[Verse]
E
Who's to say
E
What's impossible
F#m
Well they forgot
F#m
This world keeps spinning
.................E
And with each new day
E .....................F#m..............F#m
I can feel a change in everything
......................E ........................E
And as the surface breaks reflections fade
..................F#m ..........................F#m
But in some ways they remain the same
.................. E..........................E
And as my mind begins to spread its wings
.....................F#m
There's no stopping curiosity

[Chorus]

F#M .............................. ........E.............F#m
I want to turn the whole thing upside down
A........B.................................E........... F#m
All finer things they say just can't be found
A.........B.............................E.......... F#m
I'll share this love I find with everyone
A .............B ...............................E...............F#m
We'll sing and dance to Mother Nature's songs
A.....................B ........................ E
I don't want this feeling to go away

“Baker Street” – Gerry Rafferty

OK, this isn’t a happy, sunshiny song.

But it’s the groove that puts it on here.

Pair that with an undeniable sense of longing and an unforgettable saxophone riff and you’ve got it going on.

"Baker Street" was written and first recorded by Scottish singer-songwriter Gerry Rafferty. Released as a single in 1978, it reached #1 in Cash Box and #2 in Billboard - where it held for six weeks.

In October 2010 the song was recognized by BMI for surpassing 5 million performances worldwide.

[Verse]
A
Winding your way down on Baker Street

Light in your head, and dead on your feet
.............Em.............................G
Well another crazy day, you drink the night away
...............D
And forget about everything

A
This city desert makes you feel so cold, it’s got

So many people but its got no soul
................Em.........................G
And its taken you so long to find out you were wrong
..................D
When you thought it held everything.

[Chorus]
Dm7 .......................................Am7
You used to think that it was so easy
Dm7.....................................Am7
You used to say that it was so easy
.............C .............G ..............D
But you're tryin, you're tryin now
Dm7.....................................Am7
Another year and then you'd be happy
Dm7...............................................Am7
Just one more year and then you'd be happy
..........C.................G.................A
But you're cryin', you're cryin now

“Blister in the Sun” – Violent Femmes

If you want to get your punk on for some summer fun, you’ve picked the right song.

Released by the Violent Femmes it appeared on their 1983 self-titled debut album.

The song has appeared in several commercials for brands like Wendy’s and Foster’s Lager, and in the film Grosse Pointe Blank, but we still like it anyway.

Can you play G, C and Em? You’ve got it made.

[Verse]
G...............C ..........G ............C.........G............C ..........G
When I'm a walkin' I strut my stuff, then I'm so strung out.
.........G..........C .....G ......C.........G..........C ..........G
I'm high as a kite, I just might stop to check you out.

[Chorus]
.................Em..............C
Let me go on, like a blister in the sun.
................Em............C..............................D
Let me go on, big hands I know your the one.

“Hey Soul Sister” – Train

Love this song. It’s neat ukulele feel. It’s fun lyric. It’s bouncy groove.

"Hey, Soul Sister" was released as the lead single from the band's fifth studio album, Save Me, San Francisco.
The song reached number three on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and is their highest charting song to date and has sold over 6 million digital copies in the US.

The live iTunes version of "Hey, Soul Sister" garnered a Grammy Award for Train at the 53rd Annual Grammy Awards.

For this version, capo 4 and play as written.

[Verse]
C..........G ........................Am........................F
Hey-ay, Hey-ay-AY-ay-ay, Hey-ay-AY-ay-ay
..........C ..............................G ......................Am ..........F
Your lipstick stains on the front lobe of my left side brains
................................C.................. G....................Am.....................F........G
I knew I wouldn't forget you and so I went and let you blow my mind
.............C...............G ........................ Am................. F
Your sweet moonbeam the smell of you in every single dream I dream
...............................C............................................G....................Am.......F.......G
I knew when we collided you're the one I have decided who's one of my kind

F................G .......C......................G....................F
Hey soul sister ain't that mister mister on the radio stereo
...........G.........................C...........G
The way you move aint fair you know
F................G........C..................G.....................F..............G
Hey soul sister I don't want to miss a single thing you do
..........C ..........G....................Am .........................F
Tonight Hey-ay, Hey-ay-AY-ay-ay, Hey-ay-AY-ay-ay

In this new feature from the August 2014 issue of Guitar World, the guitarists of Avenged Sevenfold, Morbid Angel, Trivium and other metal acts tell how they'll beat the heat and tame the crowds on the season's biggest tours.

TODAY: Avenged Sevenfold Guitarist Synyster Gates — MAYHEM FEST

Your sweatiest concert ever?

Definitely the 2004 Warped Tour when we played in Arizona. I think it got up to 127 degrees, and I remember feeling like I was going to faint. Just god awful. So we drank a bunch of margaritas to keep us extremely sedated.

Considerations when playing an outdoor show versus an indoor show?

Nothing at all. We just go out there and have a lot of fun. I mean, the only time you’re ever worried about anything is if there are extreme elements, like rain or crazy wind.

Primary gear you’ll be playing this summer?

My gear is pretty easy. I usually play through my Hellwin amp and signature guitar [Schecter Synyster Custom]. I’m not a big effects sort of guy—I like to keep it simple.

One item you will carry with you at all times this summer?

A ProTools rig strapped to my back, literally. It keeps me sane, writing a bunch of different stuff like classical stuff or any guitar stuff. I don’t like being locked in a cage on the creative scale. I need an outlet.

Highlight of your band’s set list?

I’m really excited about the reaction “This Means War” [from 2013’s Hail to the King] is getting these days. That’s a real fun song to play, and I like the grooves and riffs.

Tips for winning over a tough crowd?

You just have to be confident. Don’t give ’em anything to further their disapproval. Just go up there, rock out, and act like it’s a base of your fans. And don’t scream and yell at them.

Advice for a band just starting to play live?

Just go up there and enjoy it, because it’s a really special thing to be able to do. We interact with the crowd, turn it into a party. I wouldn’t worry about the performance or having a stiff and ridged structure for the show. If you keep it loose, you’ll find yourself, eventually.

Photo: David Wolff — Patrick/Redferns/Getty Images

Watch the video for "Hail to the King" here:

Each year, we aim to make our annual Buyer’s Guide the kind of girls-and-gear spectacular that you can’t put down.

This year was no different. We flew with high hopes toward sunny California to lock down a supposedly easy Malibu beach shoot and have some fun in the sun with a trio of Playboy Playmates.

Sadly, our hopes were dashed by cloudy skies and heavy winds that forced us to move toward a more tranquil locale. Undeterred, we found a cool spot in downtown L.A. called UFO - The Poodle Parlor, a vintage warehouse where numerous music videos have been shot.

It turned out to be the ideal place to turn up the heat for the 2015 Guitar World Buyer’s Guide.

As we unloaded the latest in drool-worthy guitars, amplifiers, effects and accessories, we patiently waited for the stars of the show to make their appearance, and I can tell you, we weren’t disappointed. Nikki Leigh (Playboy’s Miss May 2012), Dani Mathers (Playboy’s Miss May 2014) and Gemma Lee Farrell (Playboy’s Miss November 2013) are some of the most smoking-hot girls ever to grace these pages. After slipping into ripped-up rock tees, they grabbed a few guitars and started shredding for the camera.

As with previous Buyer’s Guides, this year’s issue presents a selection of the newest gear along with gorgeous gals who know how to handle an ax or two. It also includes the winners of our annual Model Search, Skye Mangrum and Rae Weber.

Be sure to check out this new behind-the-scenes video below! And if you’re still hankering for more, stay tuned for more behind-the-scenes photo outtakes from this shoot!

Even though I didn’t get a chance to get on a beach this time around, I have to admit that this was the best warehouse job I’ve ever had.

The 2015 Guitar World Buyer's Guide is available now at the Guitar World Online Store!

The Guitar & Bass Expo will take place 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. August 23 in Reading, Pennsylvania.

The show will bring a unique custom and boutique instrument experience to musicians from Reading and its surrounding areas.

The one-day event will feature guitars and basses, amplification and accessories from a wide variety of boutique and custom manufacturers, retailers and service companies, plus five amp/cab demo rooms, six 45-minute educational clinics, a rock and roll flea market and more.

The show will take place at the Inn at Reading, 1040 N. Park Road, Reading (Wyomissing), Pennsylvania. For more information, visit guitarandbassexpo.com and the event's Facebook page.

Here are some of the companies that will be represented at the show:

GUITAR & BASS

Chili Custom Guitars
C.R. Alsip Guitars
Knaggs Guitars
Skjold Design Guitars
Calaveras Fretworks Custom Guitars
Ron Smith Guitars
HJC Customs
Brubaker Guitars
Howard Guitars
K&M Instruments
Eric Schaefer Guitars
Jackson
Charvel
Takamine
Gretsch
Guild
Beardly Customs
Coop Guitars
Vintage Blues Guitars
Lost Art Vintage Instruments
Paul D's Used Instruments
MV Guitars & Pickups
Black Water Guitars
(10+ TBA soon)

AMPS/CABS/EFFECTS/PARTS/SERVICES

VVT Amps
Colby Amps
Jaded Faith Mods
Ugly Amps
KW Cabs
Indigo Amplification
Phil Jones Pure Sound
Love Tree Amps
GuitarHeads
GuitarEffectsPedals.com
Zexcoil Guitar Pickups
Nordstand Pickups
Dark Horse Strings
Guitar Dr.
The Drum Exchange
Brain Fry Productions
(5+ TBA soon)

RETAILERS

GLS Music Store
Funky Frets
Meadowood Music

CLINICS/DEMOS

Skjold Design Guitars
Zexcoil Guitar Pickups
Eric Schaefer Guitars
(More TBA; specific clinic information and times will be released soon.)

ROCK N ROLL FLEA MARKET

Lucky Dog Essentia & Curios
Creepy Girls Crafts & Curios
Vikki Sin Art
Philly Phlair
(many more TBA soon)

RAFFLES

There will be a "Winners Choice" raffle with a limited number of entries being accepted!

LIVE ENTERTAINMENT

There will be a live show immediately after the expo, plus an open-mic night in the hotel lounge. Winners of various contests and raffles will be announced at this time.

Singer-Songwriter Pieta Brown has confirmed the September 30 release of her sixth album Paradise Outlaw via Red House Records.

Produced by Brown, with frequent collaborator and partner, Bo Ramsey, Paradise Outlaw was recorded in four days at Bon Iver mastermind Justin Vernon's April Base studio in Wisconsin.

The album’s supporting cast includes Vernon, Amos Lee, Brown's troubadour father, Greg Brown and various members of an experimental group of players she calls the Sawdust Collective.

Paradise Outlaw boasts some of Pieta's most emotionally resonant compositions, and some of her most expressive performances to date.

Hear album track “Flowers of Love” below, featuring backing vocals from Justin Vernon of Bon Iver:

Showcasing Brown's established strengths while staking out fresh new creative territory, she says of the songs, "On my last album, I was recording near Nashville with top-call studio musicians who I hadn't worked with before, and exploring the idea of craft and trying to hone in on more classic forms than I had previously."

“Paradise Outlaw came from a radically different place. I was thinking a lot about freedom, experimentation, poetry, folk songs, bending forms and voices. I also wrote and delivered half the songs on the banjo, which was completely new for me."

The record features twelve originals by Brown plus a co-write and duet with soulster Amos Lee ("Do You Know") and a cover of Mark Knopfler's "Before Gas And TV."

Brown continues, "Growing up around many musicians and artists, often living on the fringe, I have always felt most at home among them. And that's where I made this recording. Surrounded by friends in an underground Mid-western goldmine."

The album can be pre-ordered on iTunes here.

Check out Pieta Brown online at www.pietabrown.com.

It's time once again for our Independence Day sale at the Guitar World Online Store!

Through 11:59 p.m. Sunday, July 6, 2014, take 35 percent off EVERYTHING at the store, including all of our instructional DVDs!

Of course, the sale also includes books, T-shirts, box sets, limited editions and much more.

Head to the Guitar World Online Store now and start saving! Just be sure to use THIS code at checkout:

35FOURTH14

Once again, that's 35FOURTH14!