JOEY LANDRETH

Guitar instrumentals have supplied some of music’s most evocative moments. Jason Sidwell asks top guitarists for their take on this iconic movement. This month: the stunning guitarist from The Bros Landreth.

- Joey Landreth

GT What is it about guitar instrumentals that appeals to you?

JL: Namely, that the guitar is my instrument by trade. While I do play a few other instruments, the guitar is the instrument that I find I’m most fluent on. That said, I love the spirit of evolution around the guitar. Other than maybe synthesisers, I don’t think any instrument is constantly trying to re-invent itself. With guitar amplifiers and effects the sky's the limit!

GT: What can an instrumental provide a listener that a vocal song can’t?

JL: I feel that it’s easier to invent your own narrative to an instrumental piece.

GT: Any tendencies with instrumentals that you aim to embrace or avoid (rhythms, harmony, playing approach, tones)?

JL: As a singer-songwriter, I actually don’t write instrumental music, but as a great lover of instrumental music, I find that my influences from that world sneak into my songwriting. From layering sounds, to extra sections, reharmonisation and key changes.

GT: How useful is studying a vocalist's approach for guitar melodies?

JL: I find vocalists to be the best for developing emotional melodies. I love to channel my favourite singers to make something feel less guitar-y and add depth.

GT: How do you start writing a song; is there a typical approach or inspiration for you?