1. “Cross Off”—Mark Morton ft. Chester Bennington
This has the perfect balance of incredible guitar work and phenomenal melodic singing with aggressive tones. If only there were more songs like this.
2. “I Will Fail You”—Demon Hunter
One of my favorite songs right now. The lyrics are so meaningful, as are most DH songs. I relate to it — and the overall song is beautifully crafted. I love the melodies and chord progression.
3. “...And Justice for All”—Metallica
If I could describe this song in one word, it’d be epic. This ahead-of-its-time prog-thrash song is full of energy, thought-provoking lyrics and great guitar riffs, solos and vocals. Possibly my all-time favorite song.
4. “Arise”—Sepultura
The heaviest song ever released (in my opinion). Tuned in E standard, this is a skull-crushing song that’s perfect for driving. The adrenaline I feel every time I hear it is indescribable.
5. “The Other Side” (Acoustic)—Smile Empty Soul
I’ve been digging some acoustic tunes lately. This one is very catchy and I love the storytelling by Sean [Danielsen]. It seems nostalgic, as it has a Nineties Seattle sound.
“You wanted me to come on your track and do something in a Spanish style. I thought, ‘I have to show him how I do it on the whole guitar’”: Marcin shows an astounded Will Smith his virtuosic guitar technique
“I probably hauled in 20 guitars. I listened to the record top to bottom, turned to him and said, ‘It doesn’t need anything’”: Jeff “Skunk” Baxter on the one studio session where he lugged a ton of guitar gear – and didn't use any of it
