AARON MARSHALL
(INTERVALS)
What does prog mean to you?
I think the term refers to an act or artist that is willing to try things and grow with each piece, or with their body of work. And while I do think it can apply to all styles of music, or art in general, I think the paradox comes from it always seeming to be tied to the world of rock and metal, making it the antithesis of its own implied concept.
Who are your guitar heroes?
Marco Sfogli, Andy Timmons, Guthrie Govan, Greg Howe. These are the guys that have had a significant and lasting impact on my playing and set the benchmark for me in the early days.
What are your favorite pieces of gear?
The Neural DSP Quad Cortex. If you’re familiar with their plug-ins, then the hardware is absolutely something you’re going to want to check out. And the Fractal Audio Axe-Fx is and will always be a game changer in the world of electric guitar.
What do you try to achieve to make your style and sound unique?
I tend to gravitate more toward a strong, infectious melodic hook or overall vibe, rather than prioritizing flash and technique. I’m always listening for the song to tell me where it wants to go.
“TOSIN ABASI CREATED
A WHOLE NEW WAY GUITAR CAN BE PLAYED”
— SACHA DUNABLE
What does prog contribute to the world of guitar playing?
I think prog’s strongest contribution to the guitar is the emphasis on quality composition — music that doesn’t feel like a backing track designed to show off a player’s chops but more so how they interact with their surroundings and the choices they make to lead inspired, musical compositions. I think that is modern prog’s greatest gift to the world of guitar playing,
melodies, rhythm and sounds, all in one guitar riff. I’m also trying to make guitar mainstream and more accessible for people who don’t play an instrument or don’t listen to prog, rock, metal or whatever.
What song best exemplifies your approach to the guitar?
I’d say Unprocessed’s latest two singles, “DeadRose” and “Real.” They strike the perfect balance between showing off and presenting a song with deep melodies and a message everyone gets.
What does prog contribute that is unique? Prog had its major influence decades ago and contributed to music in a good way. But most prog fans stick to their roots and bands, and that’s why it’s not as relevant as it was in the ’70s.
Where do you hope to see progressive music heading in the future?
I’d like to see it in the pop world. Artists like Billie Eilish, Charlie Puth or A$AP Rocky take prog elements to the pop world, and people should embrace that more instead of indulging in old times.