tonelab ex

VOX came out with a new tonelab processor namely the tonelab EX. It has 33 amp modules many cabinets and some amazing pedals. built with one expression pedal for wah or reverb or delay or volume .the vox tonelab ex is one of the best buys for a range within 20000. it is priced @ Rs.15000..
there are two pedal options which is an improvement over the tonelab st. according to me its only competitor would be a floor pod plus.. with an oscillator to give it tube amp effects the tonelab ex is definitely the best buy for an intermediate guitarist..
cheers..:)

BUZZ!!

Children of Bodom!!they are back and back with a bang..i know its kind of late but they got two new albums namely Skeletons in the Closet(2009) and Relentless Reckless Forever(2011). The '09 release album consists mainly of covers. The layter is expected to be released early this year as all the tracks have already been completed. COB are also said to have a world tour soon. Hope they come to India.

There are also some other interesting stuff to look out for like the Pain of Salvation Concert in SARANG '11,IIT Chennai. It is to be held in the end of next week.
\m/

Palm Muting

Ever wondered how many bands make cool sounds?Well processors play a major role in getting sound modulations but techniques also make a difference.Palm muting is one such technique in which you are able to mute the sound that is being produced.an example of palm muting can be of what is done in the song paranoid by megadeth.it is a technique where you use your palm to mute the sound.the palm is placed just above the bridge of the guitar.the video given along will help in better understanding.

Choking

Choking is a very essential acoustic guitar and electric guitar technique. It is one where you stop the sound from continuing. In other words you are able to control the time of the vibrations of the strings. Choking is one of the basic techniques to be learnt .It is done by slightly removing the pressure from your left hand fingers .For this you have to be good at your chords .You must know your chords well, i.e. you should not take time to place your fingers on the fret board. A demonstrational video is given below on an electric guitar. The same concept is applicable for an acoustic guitar too.

basics

it is essential for every guitarist to look back at his basics every now and then, at least thats my take on it.i realized this quite late though.basic exercises like the spider the legato technique,chromatics should be done on regular basis for a sound base.
the advantage being that it becomes much easier to pick up songs and to become adept to a certain style of music.it is also essential that one keeps an idol and follows that person religiously,by following his lessons or by trying to copy his playing style(initially).