In the December issue, Guitar World magazine caught up with guitar virtuoso Marty Friedman for an exclusive interview as he puts the final touches on his new solo album.
Friedman recently journeyed from his home in Japan to Los Angeles to work with engineer Paul Fig at Dave Grohl’s Studio 606 to continue work on Friedman’s follow up to 2014 release Inferno.
“The new album’s a way more intense version of Inferno: deeper, sadder, happier, and more aggressive,” Friedman explained to GW.
Much like Inferno, notable guest collaborations will be a key component of the new record, and include Mutoid Man, Jorgen Munkeby of Shining and Jinxx of Black Veil Brides.
“You’ve got to make use of the guest,” states Friedman. “You can’t just have them come in and pop out a solo or bang out a vocal. With Inferno, I made sure it was a complete collaboration between the guest and me.”
Friedman also dished on the Jackson prototype he used exclusively to create the new effort.
“I think it’s the most solid Jackson I’ve ever played,” notes Friedman. “You really put a guitar to the test when you record. When I’m in the studio, whatever is the best sounding guitar for the part, that’s the one I play. My Jackson went head-to-head with Gibsons, Fenders and other major brands, and it got chosen every time.”
Following the album’s release, Friedman will head back out on the road for an extensive world tour.
“I like playing live more than anything else,” he states. “If the people want to be there to hear me, I want to be there to play for them.”
Visit Guitar World to read the full interview, and watch a video below of Friedman’s recent performance with Rodrigo y Gabriela at the Hollywood Bowl.