Tweed Couch Guitar Therapy Session

Nothing can beat a charismatic frontman. Then again, there are some Side Players that give them a run for their money. I mean… who is Bono without Edge? Freddie Mercury without Brian May? Roth or Haggar without Eddie Van Halen? Robert Plant without Jimmy Page? Anthony Kiedis without John Frusciante? Bon Scott or Brian Johnson without Angus & Malcolm? Or Mick Jagger without Keith Richards.Of course I would be remiss not to mention the few charismatic Frontmen that are also ripping guitarists. Like Brad Paisley, Keith Urban, John Mayer, Jimi Hendrix, Either of the Vaughn Brothers, Derek Trucks, Prince, Eric Clapton, Chet Atkins, Mark Knopfler, Vince Gill… and lets just say ALL of the Kings.But which is it better to be, a Frontman or a Side Player? Can you be both? Which carries more stress? Which carries more fame? Does one roll have more significance than the other? Who has the bigger influence on the sound? If we could give some advice, what would it be? When I think of a band, which member  comes to mind? And… job security… did I just get fired?Well we will discuss this, and more on this group therapy session with Lloyd, on the Tweed Couch.

I am fortunate enough to live in an area that not only has amazing guitar shops, but 1-2 times a year guitar shops from around the nation will come to buy, sell, trade, and showcase musical gear all under 1 roof. Occasionally you'll see a celebrity. Get a chance to listen to some live music. And possibly touch a true holy grail piece. I grew up going to these shows and now I get to take my own children.Of course this may sound like heaven but I assure you it has its downfalls. High prices, loud rooms, tiny isles, and sensory overload can leave you drained and exhausted after just an hour. But… What exactly is a guitar show? Does it cost anything to attend? How is it different from going to a guitar shop? Can you play the instruments? What kind of people do you find there? Is there anything worth buying? How many guitar shops make it? Do the vendors even have to be about guitar gear? What would you buy if you had the money? Do they have special deals? And Les Paul's… ya… they weren't around in 1886.Well we will discuss this, and more on this group therapy session with Owen my 17 year old cork sniffer, on the Tweed Couch.

This has been a fun annual event to do each year. I enjoy the anticipation, the fun in the forums, and the chance to get something I normally would not pick out myself. I would also say that I am a consumer of Premier Guitar's content and for me this is a small way to support what they do. Of course, not all people feel this way. Many believe it to be a disgrace and an irresponsible way to spend money. Some think it would be better to give the money to charity, some say it's better to support local businesses, and others just don't like the concept. But what potential prizes are there this year? How big are our boxes? Which Tweed Couch co-hosts participated? What did we get in previous years? What did we get this year? Who got the biggest Box of Sad? Can we return it? What is the deal with the GloKnob? And… next year… are we doing it again or is it time to do something else? Well we will discuss this, and more on this group therapy session with Jason, on the Tweed Couch. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/tweedcouch/support

As you just heard in the intro, Jason is now a licensed therapist in Texas. Although this podcast has never been about true scientific therapy and the advice here was never meant to treat anything but an entertainment deficiency.  My hope was always that you left here encouraged, happier, and motivated to be a better person and musician… then in which you came. And all of this at no charge. Which is why I always ask for a like and subscribe on the YouTube Channel and podcast platform. It's a free way to support this free to you content. But back to “Guitar Player or Collector”. Of course I also realize that I'm no guru and definitely no saint… I have my own therapy that is needed on something I have wrestled with for a years. You see, I love the guitar. I love playing, touring, talking, tweeking, and owning guitars. After 3 decades of playing I have also accumulated… guitars, pedals, amps, cables, picks, parts, etc… etc… etc… So this left me with the question… Am I a guitar Player or Collector? And thankfully Jason is licensed and ready to help me… kinda.  But… What makes a player a player? What makes a collector a collector? Could you be both? What draws some to purchase music gear? Are we slaves to subliminal marketing? Should we feel guilty about owning so much? What about pedals and amps… can we collect them too? When is enough… enough? And Quizzes… get your pencil and paper ready because we are about to  assess you as a Player or Collector too. And we will discuss this, and more on this group therapy session with Jason, on the Tweed Couch. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/tweedcouch/support

We all have passions. When I was a kid I loved playing sports and collecting baseball and football cards. As a young adult I was into playing guitar and music. Now as a middle age adult I love being with my wife and kids. Teaching and learning. Being in the music industry. And obviously I love collecting, playing, and fixing guitars.  Of course not all of these things can make us money. And if I'm honest, generally speaking, none of these things are going to make you filthy rich on its own.  But how do we turn passion into a paycheck? Is it worth it to even try? What about burnout? Can there be too much of a good thing? What sacrifices need to be made? Do I need a side hustle? And venn diagrams… can we really use a visual aid on a podcast? Well we will discuss this, and more on this group therapy session with John, on the Tweed Couch. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/tweedcouch/support

Back in 1954, Leo Fender once again created a guitar that would revolutionize popular music. Although many changes have occurred over the last 7 decades… at the heart of it… the Stratocaster is still just as revolutionary today as it was back then. Of course it has been a long journey since then. In 1965 the headstock was enlarged. In 1971 the 3 bolt neck began. In 1977 the 5 way switch became the stock design. In 1982 they began releasing Squier versions. In 1985 Japanese Strats started getting a humbucker in the bridge. In 1997 the US made, double humbucker, “Big Apple” Strat was created… and the story goes on and on and on. But… what makes a strat a strat? Should we call similar designs an S-style guitar? Which is better, rosewood or maple fretboards? Can you call it a strat if it has humbuckers? What about a 5 switch? Should the tremolo be floating? Why do they call it a tremolo if its really a vibrotol? Is it really a strat if its a hardtail? What mods are worth the time? And sounds… what or should I say who makes the best “strat tone”?  Well we will discuss this, and more on this group therapy session with Chris, on the Tweed Couch. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/tweedcouch/support

Every year I talk about how this festival feels like a family reunion and this year was no exception. It's not just because I get to see my normal Tweed Couch Buddies and not just because I get to perform music with my bandmates. It is because of the bond we share because of our desire to see this Christ centered event be successful. Of course, much like a family working together. There are plenty of stories, frustrations, laughter, sweat, blood, and tears as the event goes on… oh and a fair amount of shenanigans too. But what bands played this year at Lifest? Did they use real amps? Who is Lord Meniscus? Why was I called “The Rabbit”? What is a guitar vault? Can you decorate them? Did my 12 year-old get to drive? Did my 16 year old help run the main stage? Did the Newsboys really go on without Michael Tait or Peter Furler? Are big name artists actually nice people? And rain… did lightning really nearly strike a stage? Well we will discuss this, and more on this group therapy session with Owen & Eli, on the Tweed Couch. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/tweedcouch/support

There is something cool about the delay effect on guitar. Sometimes you need a little to add size. Sometimes you need a lot to add texture. Sometimes you need to go backwards or wobbly to do something completely different.  Of course delay isn't perfect… and it could cover your sloppy playing but really… when done right… It's one of the best ways to sculpt your style and create a tasty tone.  But… who uses delay best? Is it the same as reverb? What do the knobs do? Does it have to be a pedal? Who makes the best pedal? I get ⅛ and ¼ note… but what does dotted and triplet do? Can I leave it on all the time? And… tap tempo… is it a must? Well we will discuss this, and more on this group therapy session with Barber, on the Tweed Couch. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/tweedcouch/support

There is a reason why we fall in love with the tones of songs from decades ago. The player, the phrasing, the technique, the gear. All of this ignites and inspires a guitar player. Of course that gear has become harder and harder to obtain as time goes on. Plexi's to JCM's. Tweed to Silverface. Burst Les Paul to Korina Explorer. Pre-CBS Tele to Grunge Jagstang. If you want the real deal you will have to pay for it… if you don't mind a newer reissue. then there might still be hope. But… Are reissues the same as the original? Do they cost more? Why would people want the old model? Should you pay more to have it intentionally beat up? What is a clone? Is it better than a reissue? Who does them right? Who does them wrong? Does weight play a factor? What about the finish? Is time on its side? Who are reissues marketed for? And the automobile industry… when are you going to jump on board? Well we will discuss this, and more on this group therapy session with Lloyd, on the Tweed Couch. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/tweedcouch/support

Some trade their gear in and trade up. Others sell their unwanted stuff off to finance other endeavors. Some feel the clutter and just want to regain space and sanity.  Of course you never know if you might need that gear again. And most of the time, selling it off is actually more of a hassle than it's worth. Then again the ROI is often lower and you'll never be able to buy it back for what you sold it for. Add that up to the memories you've created with the stuff and you might just be better off keeping it or giving it to a budding new musician.  But what gear do we currently have that goes unused? Is there a reason for holding on this long? If we did sell it then where would we do it? Would I have to deal with taxes and shipping? Have we ever given gear away? Can I justify buying more? What's a tire kicker? Is there a reason to hold on? How has the market looked since the pandemic? And… Skeleton's in the Closet… Did Barber really forget that he owned two guitars sitting in a closet until this podcast? Well we will discuss this, and more on this group therapy session with Barber, on the Tweed Couch. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/tweedcouch/support

Some love them. Some hate them. Those that feel the love appreciate the history, tone, feel, and inspiration these guitars embody. Those that feel the hate. Disapprove of the hype and blinded devotion to a flawed guitar design  that reeks of terrible tuning stability, inferior quality control, headstock breakage, high price, and heavy weight. Of course these are a few examples of the extremes based on the guitars. Add in the sketchy corporate decisions that has led the company to bankruptcy more than once the acquisition of “non-guitar related businesses”, the lawsuits brought down on other popular brands, the campaign to “Play Authentic” and license the use of the guitars or else, and… ugh… the destruction of hundreds of firebird X guitars by an excavator… ya… they said they were “unfixable”... sure… But why do people love Gibson guitars? Does it count if it's an Epiphone? Is Custom Shop really that much better? How are the acoustics? Is the weight really a problem? What's a pancake body? Does more price really get you more guitar? How many do Jason and I own? Were the robot tuners really that bad? What is neck dive? Should a Gibson cost more than a Fender? And… Ted McCarty… the man that is still saving the company today. Well we will discuss this, and more on this group therapy session with Jason, on the Tweed Couch. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/tweedcouch/support

I've used inear monitors for over 20 years and floor wedges for even longer. Although there is a huge price difference between these two. Depending on the venue or concert you are playing, there is definitely a clear winner.  Of course a great mix with great musicians makes all the difference when it comes to the experience of the show. On top of that, everyone has a preference that suits their needs, style, and comfort level. But is it okay to get budget level monitors? What options do I have? Can I control my own mix? Do I need to do the same thing as the rest of the band? Should I get custom molded inears? Is it okay to switch from one type to the other? Do I even have to have a monitor? And monitor mixes, iif I can't hear something is the answer to just make it louder?  Well we will discuss this, and more on this group therapy session with John, on the Tweed Couch. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/tweedcouch/support

By now we all know that I love Marshall amplifiers but I also love my Fender and my Vox. Of course boutique amplifiers are incredible too and I've really enjoyed my Dr. Z, Clark, and Mesa amps. Then there's Lloyd with his Saldono, Reason and Naylor… and Jason's Carr… So many… But what amps do we need? Why would we need more than one? Is every amp competing with Fender? What classifies something as a bedroom amp? How does wattage factor in? What if we take modeler's off the table for discussion? How do you decide what's essential? Does nostalgia matter? Are Dumble amps even all that special? Can I narrow it down to just one amp? And half stacks… who are they really for? Well we will discuss this, and more on this group therapy session with Lloyd, on the Tweed Couch. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/tweedcouch/support

My first overdrive was a tube screamer circuit. It turned my solid state amp into a broken up tone machine. A few years later I went with a tube amp, and although I could get it driven, nothing beat the tones I got with an overdrive pushing the front end.  Of course tone is subjective. Some love the colors an EQ or clipping can give.  Others prefer something more transparent or with a slight bump in a certain frequency. Either way, overdrives are necessary and overdrives are inspirational. But which overdrive is king? Do they all sound the same? Why would you want more than one? Does the price matter? How many is too many? Is a fuzz considered an overdrive? Which should I try? Is there anything original out there? And Robert Keeley… What does he have to do with all this? Well we will discuss this, and more on this group therapy session with Lloyd, on the Tweed Couch. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/tweedcouch/support

I've seen the gear reviews. I've joined the Facebook fan pages. I've updated and updated and updated software. I have captured with it. I've owned it for about three years and use it at least twice a week in a live setting. So I guess it's time I finally talk about it. Of course it's pretty amazing but I wouldn't call it perfect. Being a beta tester for the last three years has only proven that there is room for growth. On top of that there have been new modelers that have come out since, that do very similar things. But… Does it really sound like the amp? Does it really sound like the drive pedal? What gear did it replace? How do I use it live? Can I run a vocal through it? Can I use 2 guitars through it at the same time? Why did Fender make a modeler? Why did kemper make a smaller modeler? And soon… what in the world does that mean?  Well we will discuss this, and more on this group therapy session with Barber, on the Tweed Couch. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/tweedcouch/support

Who doesn't like getting a package in the mail? The excitement. The anticipation. The dopamine release… Now add to it that what you ordered is a surprise and you've essentially doubled down on all of these emotions. Of course, “doubling down” is an interesting way to put it. The Premier Guitar Mystery Stocking is kinda like gambling. Some people get guitars. Some get pedals. Others get GloKnobs and output jacks… It is those people who have dubbed this similar form of guitar gear roulette as receiving a “Box of Sad”. But… Where is Jason? Did he participate this year? Where does Premier Guitar get this stuff? Does the Grinch pack the boxes? Why did a drummer buy one? Was it worth the $40? Expensive or not, will we even use this stuff? And… Box of Sad… will we do it again next year? Well we will discuss this, and more on this group therapy session with John, on the Tweed Couch. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/tweedcouch/support

Drummers are awesome. Their ability to use every limb of their body to create syncopation and energy is astounding. A seasoned drummer with finesse and dynamics can take a song from meh to amazing! Of course they do have their quirks and downfalls to us guitar/vocalists. Their high volume and massive footprint create such a confined space in a mix and on a stage that it is easy to become annoyed… but then again we aren't perfect either. Our quest for perfect tones and tendency to push tempo can drive a drummer to their breaking point. We noodle, we tune and retune, we switch out gear, we sometimes use their gear as a platform to jump off of… I mean… I can see we have our issues too. But what are the drummer's pet peeves about guitar players? Do we even care? What are the guitar players' pet peeves about a drummer? Do they even care? Could we have the same issues with each other? Is it okay to tell them to stop it? Are these issues even solvable? And… collections… John said he owns how many drum sets and how many guitars? Well we will discuss this, and more on this group therapy session with John, on the Tweed Couch. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/tweedcouch/support

I'm not sure if you've ever been in this place for gear? Content. You love what you have. It inspires you to play. Simply put, you have found your voice and you have found your mojo…  Of course, you'd love some vintage gear. Or a custom built instrument. Or a signature artist's piece of gear. Then there are pedalboards, amps, modelers, straps, mics, interfaces… You know, maybe no one is ever done. And if you only knew the amount of change that has occurred in Jason's gear over the last 2 months… well your jaw would drop. But… What new gear has Jason recently purchased? Did he sell anything off? How many custom guitar orders does he have in que? Did he sell a guitar to me? How many G's are in the name Gregg? Why is he quoting sir mix-a-lot again? And drive pedals… is it possible that he's overcompensating for something? Well we will discuss this, and more on this group therapy session with Jason, on the Tweed Couch. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/tweedcouch/support

How do you describe tone? Seriously… how do you describe guitar tone? Lush, responsive, meaty, throaty, organic… its a never ending thesaurus of adjectives to describe the feeling we have when we hear it. Of course tone is very subjective and opinions may differ. Some like a tone that is flabby and others like it tight. Some like it scooped and others want it in your face. But… Why do we use these terms? Do they have an origin? Is it okay to use them with the band? Can 2 people have a different meaning for the same tone word? When is the right time to use them? Are there naughty words of tone? Can you describe tone to a beginner? Can you describe tone to a sound engineer? When is it better to just talk in frequency? And… words like Transparent, Quack, Sag, Ballsy, and Trashy… are these good things?  Well we will discuss this, and more on this group therapy session with Chris, on the Tweed Couch. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/tweedcouch/support

The magnificence of a big stage. The PA, lights, smoke, and the size that allows you to be able to move and perform with high energy. Of course a small stage has its charm too. Generally it means a more intimate crowd, more accessibility to the audience, and less pressure to perform visually.  But which stage is better? Does it affect your gear choices? Is there more pressure on a certain stage? Should you use inear monitors or wedges? What is a thrust? Can I walk on it? How do you get a big stage gig? Should I turn down small ones? Can an amp sound different on different stages? And nostalgia… oh we have lots of stories. Well we will discuss this, and more on this group therapy session with Lloyd, on the Tweed Couch. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/tweedcouch/support

I love this festival! I love playing music at this festival. I love bringing my family. I love the community. I love this festival! Of these 25 years of Lifest, I have been to 17 of them in Oshkosh, WI. In 2000 I was there to play with Echelon. 2004 - 2007 I played with Second Adam. 2008 I played with Echelon & Lynn Stoneking. And from 2012 - now, I have driven the 1300 miles up to play with Echelon, Lynn, Swen & Dean, and Jonathan Cain of the Hall of Fame rock band Journey. I've played Electric, Acoustic, Mandolin, Bass, and Drums. I ‘ve been an artist on their Grandstand, Edge, Pit, Kid Zone, Prayer Journey, Expo, and Bonfire stages. I have been the most used artist every year I've been there… and I love doing. But what shenanigans happened this year? Is it okay to teach your kid how to do a B & E? Why was Matthew West throwing Cheese Curds? Does Lifest hate TV's? How awesome was it to play on the grandstand again? Is there a reason we need a keeper of the keys? What does it mean to pull a snake? And… sketchy trailers… Well, we're not going to Mexico. Well we will discuss this, and more on this group therapy session with Owen, on the Tweed Couch. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/tweedcouch/support

The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, The Yardbirds, U2, Queen, Brad Paisley. What do they all have in common? They are part of the story of the iconic tone that is Vox Amplification. Starting out, I was a Fender guy. Early professional, I made my way to Vox Modeling amps. Professional, I rocked a Marshall half stack. Now I play them all when I can but when I fly into a gig I generally ask for Vox. Of course, over time I had a lot of trial and error but it wasn't until I played a cranked Vox AC15 or AC30 that I realized that I had missed the boat and there is something special… even magical about a Vox amplifier. But what era is the best? Who do we know that plays these stellar amps? Where did the name Vox come from? Is there a difference tonally from amp to amp? What is a warfdale? Are Greenbacks or Blue's better? Can you still find an AC30 for less than $500? What do the numbers mean? And settings… how do you find your Vox tone? Well we will discuss this, and more on this group therapy session with Lloyd, on the Tweed Couch. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/tweedcouch/support

My first guitar pedal was a Visual Sound Jekyll & Hyde. My second was a Dunlop Crybaby Wah. Then I jumped over to the world of modulation and pedal building. As my pedal needs grew and my situations changed. It didn't take long before I realized that I took longer to set up than the drummer and I needed to speed up which started me on the journey of finding the perfect pedalboard. But how do you layout a pedalboard? Are there templates or online resources? What is the best way to attach pedals to the board? Could you damage them? Who makes the best boards? How expensive are they? Do the cables matter? What about the power supply? And interventions… have we gone too far? Well we will discuss this, and more, on this group therapy session with Jason, on the Tweed Couch. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/tweedcouch/support

Gigs are great. Fly gigs are special. Weekend events are amazing. Doing all 3 with some of your best friends in the world… priceless. Of course getting a gig, with fantastic gear and tone, is only one part of what makes touring special. Doing all this in a different region or town where you get to take in the sights, food, and visit a few guitar shops along the way is pretty awesome as well.   But how did the show in Minneapolis go? Who all was there? What kind of event was it? What gear did we play? How many Vox amps do you need? How many Tele's do you need? Can you get a good complementing tone if both players play the same type of guitar? Who provided all the gear? And… what makes a sound guy a party pooper?  Well we will discuss this, and more on this group therapy session with Lloyd, on the Tweed Couch. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/tweedcouch/support

There are many reasons why someone picks the gear they have. Influence, recommendation, budget, necessity… but at the end of the day, the gear that is picked creates your tone. Of course after a few decades of playing and some transitions in life you may find yourself a gear hoarder and what you have created is a timeline of tone. But why did we purchase this gear in the first place? Is there a good story on how we got it? Did we get the sound we were looking for? What happens to the stuff that doesn't get played anymore? Should I sell it off? Do we still have our first guitar? And… is the gear you tour with different than the gear you have at home? Well we will discuss this, and more on this group therapy session with Lloyd, on the Tweed Couch. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/tweedcouch/support

Sometimes you just feel claustrophobic. You go one direction in tone… then another… then another. You join new bands, you scratch the itch of the new gadget, you find a deal you can't pass up… years go by and then you see it and you feel it. Cluttered and Claustrophobic.  Now I realize this is a blessing and I also realize that this is a first world problem. So today we will talk about my recent Gear Purge and my justification of it. Also we are going to talk about where I've been the last couple months and the life changing diagnosis that has led me to my current situation and my new normal. But what gear is Dr. T getting rid of? How do you choose what goes? Will there be any regrets? What life changing event happened in the last 8 weeks? Can I still continue to podcast over 40 times a year? Will the dynamic or the format change? And… what does this     mean for the fate of the Tweed Couch? Well we will discuss this, and more, on the Tweed Couch. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/tweedcouch/support

I've said it for years, “Failure IS an option”. Most people hate this statement but it's true. Of course I'd rather see success and sometimes things are out of your control but nevertheless… It is an option. Another statement I often remember saying was, “If you fail to plan. Then you plan to fail”. It is because of these statements that today we will discuss the failures we have seen, what we did to solve it, and how we took action to make sure we never had to deal with it again. But how important is a backup? Does it matter what cases I use? Can others learn from my failures? Should I worry about my other bandmates? What do I do when the whole sound system fails? Does duct tape really fix everything? And who breaks a bass string? Well we will discuss this, and more on this group therapy session with Jeromy, on the Tweed Couch. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/tweedcouch/support

90's country made a positive mark on me. I loved the stories they told, the sense of pride they carried, and the twangy stringed instruments. Of course Country wasn't always like this. Country music pioneers, for better or worse, created new sounds and new tones by mixing genres in order to infiltrate and widen their market. People like Conway Twitty & Johnny Cash paved a way for 90's country artists like Billy Ray Cyrus, The Dixie Chicks, and Sawyer Brown. People of the early 2000's like Keith Urban, Rascal Flatts, and Big & Rich paved a way for today's artists like Florida Georgia Line, Morgan Wallen, and Jason Alden. And that brings me to today's topic of John Rich of Big & Rich. A little on his career, a little on his extracurriculars, and a lot on his whiskey “Redneck Riviera”. But Where did John Rich get his start? Has he ever been in a full band? What is Texasse? Is his whiskey any good? Does it Mix well? Can you class up a Redneck Riviera? What does Proof mean? And is this the American version of a Canadian whiskey? Well we will discuss this, and more on this group therapy session with Nick, on the Tweed Couch --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/tweedcouch/support

There is no denying the ease of use of a modeler when recording. Sure there is an argument of simplicity when you put a mic in front of a speaker, hit record and let it be what it is… but there are downfalls of the analog situation too. Amps are bigger, have less options, more noise artifacts, and of course the elephant in the room… sheer loudness in order to get the tubes cooked and the speakers moving. Pedals have their issues too. Cables fail, powering issues, number of pedals, size of the enclosure, and of course buffering and impedance issues. But why is a modeler such a good option? Can you record more than one track? What is re-amping? Does phase matter? Is phase really a math equation? How do you use modelers with an interface? Do you even need an interface? Can you fly with it? And… IR's are they a tone game changer? Well we will discuss this, and more on this group therapy session with Beth, on the Tweed Couch. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/tweedcouch/support

If you are listening to this then you have probably been there. You sit down to watch a movie and somewhere in there you see guitar gear. From Tom Hanks', That Thing You Do to Rob Reiner's Spinal Tap… nothing is more engaging, entertaining, and aggravating to a guitarist than a movie with guitar gear. But what does Steve Vai, Ralph Macchio & Brittany Spears have in common? Did Back to the Future make critical Gibson, Fender & PRS errors? Is Huey Lewis' hearing okay after Marty's band audition? How great was LaBamba? How bad was the Buddy Holly Story? Is Stairway really denied? Is it really possible to turn to 11? And what is this thing called… suspend disbelief? Well we will discuss this, and more on this group therapy session with Paul, on the Tweed Couch. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/tweedcouch/support

Ah the age old debate.. Is tone really in the fingers? From the grip of the neck to the pluck of a string. This debate has been heard time and time again. Of course the gear has to play a part too, right? I have been told that a 51 Nocaster is magical and a 59 burst is godly and if the right Marshall Plexi gets cranked to 11 then “ultimate tone” is achieved. But where does most guitar tone come from? Does the gear really make all the difference? Can you get heavy metal tones out of an acoustic? Why is this subject even a debate? Should you focus more on gear or technique? Where does this stem from? And if tone is in the fingers then how does a robot play a guitar? Well we will discuss this, and more on this group therapy session with Chris, on the Tweed Couch. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/tweedcouch/support

It is hard to believe that nearly 3 years ago I started a podcast because all of my bookings had been canceled and I missed my music friends. Now that the gigs have started to return I thought about stopping this podcast and moving on with life. But when I returned to gigging, what I didn't expect was a stronger connection with the people I talk and play with a handful of times a year. Of course there have been frustrations, time constraints, thoughts of quitting, and naturally exhaustion but overall I love my music community that has now spread throughout the world into your music community. I have gained great support and new friendships with people I would never have met. Like Ohm's in Hawaii, Ramsaphoto, and Steve from Kentucky. You guys rock and I thank you for the encouragement. But… What is my co-host's favorite thing about the podcast? Has anything been learned? Who is their favorite of the co-hosts? Do they have any more final thoughts? And… What possessed me to ask these people to do group guitar therapy? Well we will discuss this, and more on this 100th Episode group therapy session with Barber, John, Lloyd, Beth, Jeromy, Paul, Chris, Nick, Owen, and Jason… on the Tweed Couch. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/tweedcouch/support

Live music is amazing. I remember listening to Van Halen on the radio and thinking they were good but wasn't sure what the fuss was about. Then I saw them live. At that moment I knew I was missing out on an important element of a band… the performance. But big rock concerts are more expensive and difficult to get to nowadays. This is why a quality cover band is a special breed. They focus on musicianship, stage presence, and quantity of music to make sure that people are having a great time without much hassle and expense. But what makes a cover band good? Are they pretty much a living spotify or jukebox? How do you pick songs? Do the songs have to be exactly like the original? What gear do you need? Should you take requests? How important is stage presence? And… tribute bands, are they different? Well we will discuss this, and more on this group therapy session with John, on the Tweed Couch. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/tweedcouch/support

The term best is always subjective. Best for the price, best for the size, best for this sound… what we really mean is best for myself in this situation. With that said. This is why it is important to have a conversation with someone who speaks your language and can help you organize your thoughts. Today we do this with a Worship Leader who wants to buy a great all in one amp & pedal modeler for his church musicians to use. But… What features are important? Is there a benefit to size? Can 2 players use 1 unit? Does the venue matter? Is the user interface important? Should I or can I go stereo? Does the type of guitar matter? And… Why not just use amps and pedals? Well we will discuss this, and more on this group therapy session with Barber, on the Tweed Couch. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/tweedcouch/support

It has been another year of Podcasting, Gigs, Gear, and Videos. Of course, with this being the the end of a new year comes time to reflect on the past and look to the future. But did we accomplish all of our goals? Do we have new gear on the horizon? How well did the podcast do last year? Are we really in the top 15% of most followed podcasts? How did the 2022 resolutions go? How did I rescue a high end guitar from becoming trash? And New Year, New Tone… what do we have to look forward to in 2023? Well we will discuss this, and more on this group therapy session with Jason, on the Tweed Couch. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/tweedcouch/support

I love having a place I can call my own. Not just because it gives me a place to house my gear but because it gives me a place to take pride in. From the guitars on the wall to the knick knacks and memories. This Guitar Sanctuary is mine. I recently visited Lloyd at his converted Corn Crib, His Music Making Shred Shed, and today we talk about the place and the gear that is stored in it. But what makes a good guitar man cave? Can you find it by accident? How personal should it get? Do you need to have a lot of gear to make it worth it? Why does Lloyd have a screen door hung up on his wall? How loud can you play? Will a pickup change rescue a Vintage Les Paul? And… cats??? Why are they everywhere and what did they do to Lloyds pedalboard? Well we will discuss this, and more on this group therapy session with Lloyd, on the Tweed Couch. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/tweedcouch/support

Today on the Tweed Couch we are counseling on “Mystery Stocking 2022… Strikes Back” Way back in 2020, episode 22, Jason and I did the Premier Guitar Mystery Stocking. We got some cables, shirts, straps, coupons, and a GloKnob. It was a lot of fun and we vowed to do it again the next year. Unfortunately we missed out the next year… but not in 2022! Today we will unbox and discuss this mystery stocking that was shipped to our door. But why does The Gear Page call it the Box of Sad? Did we get our money's worth? What were the big ticket items? Was it worth doing again? Do we still have the Mystery Stocking stuff from 2 years ago? Did anyone get a GloKnob? And… after this year's Stocking… will we do it again? Well we will discuss this, and more on this group therapy session with Jason, on the Tweed Couch. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/tweedcouch/support

There is no question that Bob Dylan has inspired many musicians over decades of playing. From his musical style to his lyrics he has a sound and flavor all his own. Of course other bands have covered his songs. Within the unique identity of the Byrds, Hendrix, and even Rage Against the Machine there is the soul and stink of Bob Dylan. Now he's not just a Musician. He is also an artist and a whiskey aficionado. In the spirit of this, I would like to talk about the parallels between a song being covered and whiskey being rebarreled. But what makes a cover band any good? Do you have to do the song exactly the same? What makes a double barrel whisky different? Are there any rules? What does Dolly Parton and Adelle have to do with any of this? And who did it better… Dylan or the band that covered it. Well we will discuss this, and more on this group tasting session with Nick, on the Tweed Couch. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/tweedcouch/support

Nothing in guitar is more personal than the guitar itself but there are many factors that play into it. One of the big ones is string gauge. Whether you have a heavy hand or a light touch the gauge of a string can sculpt your tone and change your thinking. But does the gauge of string really matter? How does it affect feel? Does the brand matter? How does it change tone? What are the pros and cons? Why did Billy Gibbons name his strings the Safest & Cheapest? And did Chris and I just win the Mexican Lottery? Well, we will discuss this and more on this group therapy session with Chris, on the Tweed couch. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/tweedcouch/support

Well here is a week where I had some time but no one to Podcast with so I will discuss a common ailment that plagues a musician. As mentioned already… I am not a licensed therapist… or at least a licensed mental therapist. I am a licensed Physiotherapist, Educator, and Doctor of Chiropractic. In the state of Texas I have the education and certification to diagnose, treat, and educate conditions associated with muscles and joints. So without further adieu today's ailment is, “Foot Problems”. But how can foot problems affect your ability to play guitar? What symptoms should be alarming? Should I go see a doctor? Could it really be a problem in the low back or neck? Who treats it? What is thrombophlebitis? And did WebMD really tell me that I might be diabetic? Well we will discuss this, and more, on the Tweed Couch --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/tweedcouch/support

There are many things in life that bring us enjoyment. Good food, a loving family, a new piece of gear, a podcast… and there are parallels to why we enjoy these things equally but different. Well today Lloyd has a list and would like to discuss, and convince me, of the parallels he has found between Cigars and Guitars. But how do you compare two completely different objects? Is it okay to enjoy both? Do I have to like cigars to like this episode? What correlation can be made between the player and their cigar preference? And they make modeling guitar gear… do they make modeling cigars? Well we will discuss this, and more on this group therapy session with Lloyd, on the Tweed Couch. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/tweedcouch/support

Most people will probably stop listening at this point but wait… I think it is important to cover this subject. From the instruments, to the artist, to the reason why it changed… The Evolution of Modern Worship holds many properties of non-worship styled music. But… What are the deciding factors? Do acoustic instruments sound as good as electric? When did lights and fog become a thing? Should we pay these musicians? What does Martin Luther have to do with all this? Do I need to be ampless? Who has the best music out right now? And what is worship haze? Well we will discuss this, and more on this group therapy session with John, on the Tweed Couch. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/tweedcouch/support

Icons like The Who, Aerosmith, Rolling Stones, Beatles, and ZZ Top are really getting up there in age. As time went on…Van Halen, Guns N Roses, Black Crows, and the Foo Fighters moved that torch and kept Rock N Roll alive. Now we lack the mojo of old and it leaves us wondering… is rock dying figuratively and literally? But… who's still playing old school rock? How old are these bands getting? Are they still relevant? Should we just let it go? What gear is iconic to Rock N Roll? Will it make a comeback? And Manufacturers… Which iconic brand is doing it right? Well we will discuss this, and more on this group therapy session with Lloyd, on the Tweed Couch. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/tweedcouch/support

Back in the day I played Danelectro mini's, the Visual Sound Jekyll & Hyde, & Vox Wah's. Years later I started to dabble in pedal building with Build Your Own Clone. As time moved on, so did my needs, and I went to multi effects. Now I am all over the place but ready to get back into the pedal world. But what's out there? Does it have to be boutique? Is True Bypass still a thing? Does the power supply matter? Am I using the right cables? Should I do rack gear? Does the amp matter? Is PRS really in the pedal game? And Mount Rushmore Pedals… what are 4 iconic pedals that deserve monumental status? Well we will discuss this, and more on this group therapy session with Chris, on the Tweed Couch. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/tweedcouch/support

We've all had them. The aha moment when all of a sudden you realize something that changes your perspective on tone forever. Of course the epiphanies are generally not new. For many they are a no brainer and seem obvious but there is nothing like the aha moment, the epiphany, when you are the one who discovered or possibly rediscovered it. But what is a gear epiphany? Should you act on it immediately? Are they the same for everyone? Do seasoned professionals already know it? Can you still have an original idea? And Vintage gear… did I just buy an iconic electric guitar that is almost 50 years old?!? Well we will discuss this, and more on this group therapy session with Jason, on the Tweed Couch. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/tweedcouch/support

Today of the Tweed Couch we are counseling on “Relic Guitars” Some love them and some hate them but nobody can deny their controversy in the guitar community. Some love relics because they look old or think they sound better. While others despise relics because it shows a lack of care or it tells a story that the guitar or guitarist didn't earn. But… Why do people relic? Is it a money thing? Can a guitar be too relic'd? Which company does it the best? Do relic guitars sound better? Can you really relic a guitar by pulling it behind a truck? And YouTube Comments… Ya people are weird… Well we will discuss this, and more on this group therapy session with Jason, on the Tweed Couch. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/tweedcouch/support

Dumble's, Pelxi's, Tweed's, Boutique, Rare, Vintage, High Gain... All of these amp types are amazing, expensive, loud and some are rare! I'd love to have an amp collection but don't have the room or the money to support that new endeavor. Of course amp modelers remedy most of those excuses. I can profile, capture, or emulate any one of these amps for a fraction of the cost and space. Then there is the portability to take it all on the road or into the studio. But do amp modelers really sound the same? Do they have the right feel on stage? Does it matter to the audience? Does it matter to the other band members? Do inear monitors make a difference? Who's abandoned using their tube amps? Will tube amps ever make a come back? And… pedal tweaking, is it really just the guitar player that notices a difference? Well we will discuss this, and more on this group therapy session with John, on the Tweed Couch. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/tweedcouch/support

Today on the Tweed Couch we are counseling on “Lifest Music City, TN 2022” This is the second year on Johnny Cash's Hide Away Farm doing a music festival and it did not disappoint! Yes there were less stages but the quality of performer went up. Casting Crowns, Zack Williams, Steven Curtis Chapman, Skillet, Sidewalk Prophets, Swenless, and the list goes on… But, what changed this year at the festival? Did we see any good gear? Where did all the tube amps go? Why are we now lighting guys? How did Lloyd crash the set of a main stage artist? Will he be allowed back next year? Why is Dr. T singing Elvis & Carrie Underwood songs? And why was a Kemper being mic'd? Well we will discuss this, and more on this group therapy session with Lloyd, on the Tweed Couch. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/tweedcouch/support

Last year, before Lifest Music City, TN, Owen and I went into Nashville and visited some guitar stores. We had such a great time we brought our buddies Lloyd, Thomas, & Dave along with us this year. We visited Gruhn's Guitars, Rumble Seat Music, Carter Vintage, Gibson Garage, and two different Guitar Centers. But, was it as much fun as last year? Did we buy any gear? What were Lloyd's thoughts about Gibson R9's? Should you do a Murphy Lab? What year did the Gibson ABR-1 Bridge start? Do two Taylor's of the same model and year sound alike? And YouTuber's and Rock Stars, how do you act when you meet them in person? Well we will discuss this, and more on this group therapy session with Owen & Lloyd, on the Tweed Couch. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/tweedcouch/support

Some people stay home and vacation. Some like to go to the beach. Some enjoy camping. Others like to sight see. My family likes to do Lifest. It is probably the only working trip that feels more like a family reunion. Of course my experience is unique. I am an artist, as well as a production team member. I get the best of both worlds and the worst of both worlds… But what is a Fluffy White Bunny? Do bad things happen to gear at a festival? Why does Owen hate brooms? Did a band really have a baby at the festival? Who played in their spot? Why is standing side stage not fun anymore? Is COVID19 still a factor? And, are keyboards taking over the world? Well we will discuss this, and more on this group therapy session with Owen, on the Tweed Couch. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/tweedcouch/support

When I'm not playing my gear, I'm talking about gear. When I'm not talking about gear, I'm thinking about gear. When I'm not thinking about gear, I'm reading about gear. When I'm not reading about gear, I am watching gear on YouTube. It is apart of me. I love it. I want it. I need it. But what makes someone a gearhead? Is it a bad thing? Should I feel guilty? Is there a checklist to determine my gearheadedness? Is that actually a word? And… is this condition only specific to guitar? Well we will discuss this, and more on this group therapy session with Jason, on the Tweed Couch. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/tweedcouch/support