Franklin Dean
Veil of Maya, a prominent band in the progressive metalcore and deathcore genres, made the switch to seven-string guitars as part of their ongoing evolution in sound and technical complexity. The move to seven strings allowed the band to explore lower tunings, expand their harmonic and melodic possibilities, and achieve a thicker, more aggressive tone. This change aligned with their desire to push the boundaries of their music, incorporating more intricate riffs, extended range, and deeper atmospheric elements. The adoption of seven-string guitars became a defining feature of their later albums, such as *Matriarch* and *False Idol*, showcasing their commitment to innovation and technical mastery within the genre.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Reason for Switch | To achieve a heavier, more aggressive sound and expand their musical range. |
| Primary Motivation | Desire for lower tunings and increased sonic depth. |
| Musical Influence | Inspired by other bands using seven-string guitars in the metalcore and deathcore genres. |
| Enhanced Riffing | Allowed for more complex and intricate riff structures. |
| Extended Range | Access to lower notes (e.g., drop A or lower) without sacrificing higher fretboard accessibility. |
| Improved Versatility | Enabled experimentation with new chord voicings and melodic possibilities. |
| Notable Albums Post-Switch | Eclipse (2012) and subsequent releases prominently feature seven-string guitars. |
| Key Members Involved | Guitarists Marc Okubo and Sam Applebaum (though lineup changes occurred over time). |
| Fan Reception | Generally positive, with fans appreciating the heavier and more technical sound. |
| Industry Impact | Contributed to the growing trend of seven-string guitars in modern metal. |
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What You'll Learn
- Guitarist's Influence: New guitarist Marc Okubo preferred seven-string guitars for extended range and versatility
- Musical Evolution: Shift aimed to explore heavier, more complex riffs and technical compositions
- Genre Trends: Seven-strings became standard in progressive metalcore for deeper, fuller soundscapes
- Creative Freedom: Additional string allowed experimentation with lower tunings and intricate chord structures
- Fan Reception: Fans embraced the change, appreciating the richer, more dynamic sound it brought
Guitarist's Influence: New guitarist Marc Okubo preferred seven-string guitars for extended range and versatility
Marc Okubo's arrival as Veil of Maya's guitarist marked a pivotal shift in the band's sound, driven by his preference for seven-string guitars. This choice wasn't arbitrary; it was a deliberate move to expand the band's sonic palette. Seven-string guitars offer a broader range, extending the lower end of the instrument by adding a seventh string tuned to B (or sometimes A). This extra string allows guitarists to explore deeper, heavier tones and more complex chord voicings, essential for the technical and aggressive style of progressive metalcore.
Analyzing Okubo's playing reveals how this extended range enhances both rhythm and lead work. In rhythm, the lower B string enables heavier, more impactful power chords and allows for intricate riffing that blends dissonance with melody. For lead work, the additional string provides more room for sweeping arpeggios and extended scales, adding depth and complexity to solos. Okubo's ability to seamlessly integrate these techniques into Veil of Maya's music demonstrates the versatility of seven-string guitars, proving they're not just a gimmick but a powerful tool for innovation.
To emulate Okubo's approach, aspiring guitarists should focus on adapting their technique to the seven-string format. Start by practicing basic chord shapes and scales, ensuring comfort with the wider neck and additional string. Gradually incorporate extended-range techniques like low-string tapping and wide intervals. Caution: avoid over-relying on the lower string; balance is key to maintaining clarity and musicality. Experiment with tuning variations (e.g., drop A) to find what best suits your style, but always prioritize precision and intentionality in your playing.
The takeaway is clear: Marc Okubo's adoption of seven-string guitars wasn't just a personal preference—it was a strategic decision that redefined Veil of Maya's sound. By leveraging the extended range and versatility of these instruments, he pushed the band into new creative territories. For guitarists looking to evolve their playing, embracing seven-string guitars can open doors to unexplored musical possibilities, provided they approach the instrument with intention and practice.
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Musical Evolution: Shift aimed to explore heavier, more complex riffs and technical compositions
The shift to seven-string guitars by Veil of Maya wasn’t merely a trend-chasing move—it was a deliberate evolution to push their musical boundaries. By adding an extra string, the band unlocked access to lower tunings, enabling them to craft riffs that were both heavier and more intricate. This change allowed them to explore the sub-bass frequencies that six-string guitars couldn’t reach, creating a sonic foundation that felt seismic. For bands aiming to replicate this evolution, the first step is experimenting with drop A or lower tunings on a seven-string, which immediately expands the harmonic and rhythmic possibilities.
Analyzing Veil of Maya’s post-seven-string compositions reveals a clear emphasis on technicality. The additional string provided more room for complex chord voicings and extended scale runs, which became a hallmark of their sound. For instance, their ability to weave dissonant intervals and polyrhythms into their riffs became more pronounced, challenging both the musicians and the listeners. Aspiring guitarists should focus on mastering extended scales like the harmonic minor or diminished scales across all seven strings to replicate this level of intricacy.
The persuasive argument for this shift lies in its impact on the listener. Heavier, more complex compositions demand attention and reward repeated listens, fostering a deeper connection with the audience. Veil of Maya’s transition wasn’t just about technical prowess—it was about creating a more immersive and intense experience. Bands considering this shift should remember that the goal isn’t complexity for its own sake but to evoke a stronger emotional response.
Comparatively, the move to seven strings set Veil of Maya apart in the metalcore and djent scenes. While six-string guitars dominated these genres, the seven-string allowed them to carve out a unique sonic identity. This differentiation wasn’t without challenges, as it required rethinking songwriting and performance techniques. However, the payoff was a sound that felt both innovative and unmistakably theirs. For bands hesitant to make the switch, start by incorporating seven-string elements into select songs rather than overhauling your entire catalog.
Descriptively, the seven-string guitar became an extension of Veil of Maya’s identity, a tool that amplified their artistic vision. The lower range added a layer of darkness and depth to their music, while the expanded fretboard allowed for more dynamic interplay between rhythm and lead elements. Picture a riff that starts with a guttural, low-end chug and seamlessly transitions into a shimmering, high-register melody—this is the kind of contrast only a seven-string can achieve. For practical implementation, invest in a guitar with a comfortable neck profile and consider using heavier gauge strings to maintain tuning stability in lower tunings.
In conclusion, Veil of Maya’s shift to seven strings was a calculated move to explore heavier, more complex riffs and technical compositions. It wasn’t just about adding a string—it was about redefining their sound and pushing the limits of their genre. For bands inspired by this evolution, the key is to approach the change with intention, focusing on how the extra string can enhance your unique musical voice. Whether you’re aiming for brutality, complexity, or both, the seven-string guitar offers a world of untapped potential.
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Genre Trends: Seven-strings became standard in progressive metalcore for deeper, fuller soundscapes
The shift to seven-string guitars in progressive metalcore wasn't merely a fad—it was a sonic revolution. Bands like Veil of Maya embraced the extended range to craft soundscapes that felt both expansive and claustrophobic, a hallmark of the genre's complexity. The additional low B string (tuned to B1, roughly 31 Hz) provided a sub-bass frequency that traditional six-string guitars couldn’t reach, allowing for rhythmic grooves and ambient textures that resonated deeper in the mix. This wasn’t just about playing lower notes; it was about creating a foundation that could support the genre’s layered polyrhythms, dissonant harmonies, and atmospheric synths without sacrificing clarity.
Consider the technical demands of progressive metalcore: intricate riffing, sweeping arpeggios, and rapid chord transitions. A seven-string guitar offers a wider fretboard, enabling players to maintain consistent intervals and voicings across the neck. For instance, a chord shape that would require awkward barre positions on a six-string can be played more comfortably and precisely on a seven-string. This ergonomic advantage translates to cleaner execution, especially during live performances where precision is non-negotiable. Bands like Periphery and Born of Osiris have demonstrated how this extended range facilitates both technical virtuosity and emotional depth, setting a new standard for the genre.
However, adopting seven-strings isn’t without challenges. The learning curve can be steep, particularly for guitarists accustomed to six-string layouts. The wider neck demands greater finger stretch, and the low B string requires careful EQing to avoid muddiness in the mix. Practical tips for transitioning include starting with simpler riffs to build muscle memory, using lighter gauge strings for easier bending, and experimenting with amp settings to emphasize the low end without overwhelming the midrange frequencies. For producers, blending the low B string with a bass guitar often requires sidechain compression to ensure both instruments occupy distinct sonic spaces.
The takeaway is clear: seven-strings didn’t just alter the sound of progressive metalcore—they redefined its possibilities. By embracing this instrument, bands like Veil of Maya unlocked a new dimension of creativity, pushing the boundaries of what metal could be. For aspiring musicians, the message is equally straightforward: if you want to capture the genre’s signature depth and complexity, the seventh string isn’t optional—it’s essential.
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Creative Freedom: Additional string allowed experimentation with lower tunings and intricate chord structures
The addition of a seventh string to Veil of Maya's arsenal wasn't just a gimmick; it was a calculated move to unlock a new dimension of creative expression. This extra string, typically tuned to a low A, granted the band access to a previously unexplored sonic territory. Imagine a painter suddenly gifted with a new color on their palette – the possibilities for innovation become exponentially greater.
For Veil of Maya, this meant venturing into the realm of lower tunings, creating a thicker, more oppressive soundscape that perfectly complemented their brand of technical deathcore.
This newfound freedom wasn't merely about going lower; it was about the intricate dance of notes it enabled. With the seventh string, guitarists Marc Okubo and Brandon Butler could weave complex chord structures that would have been cumbersome or impossible on a six-string. Think of it as adding a bass line within the guitar parts, creating a richer, more layered sound. This allowed for a greater degree of harmonic complexity, pushing the boundaries of what was considered conventional in their genre.
A prime example is the song "Unbreakable," where the interplay between the low A string and the higher registers creates a sense of tension and release that's both technically impressive and emotionally impactful.
The seventh string also opened doors for experimentation with extended range chords and dissonant intervals, adding a layer of atmospheric tension to their music. It allowed them to create a soundscape that was both brutally heavy and eerily beautiful, a hallmark of Veil of Maya's sound. This wasn't just about technical prowess; it was about using the expanded range to evoke a wider spectrum of emotions, from crushing aggression to haunting melancholy.
The result was a more nuanced and dynamic sound that set them apart from their contemporaries.
While the seventh string offered immense creative freedom, it also presented challenges. Mastering this instrument requires a significant adjustment in technique and fingerings. The wider neck and additional string spacing demand greater dexterity and precision. However, for Veil of Maya, the rewards far outweighed the initial learning curve. The seventh string became an integral part of their identity, allowing them to forge a unique sonic signature that continues to inspire and influence the metal world.
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Fan Reception: Fans embraced the change, appreciating the richer, more dynamic sound it brought
The shift to seven-string guitars by Veil of Maya wasn't just a technical upgrade—it was a sonic revolution that fans immediately recognized and celebrated. The expanded range allowed for deeper, more complex riffs and harmonies, enriching the band’s signature sound without sacrificing the intensity their audience loved. This change didn’t alienate longtime listeners; instead, it drew them closer, offering a fresh yet familiar experience that felt both innovative and authentic.
Analyzing fan reactions reveals a pattern of appreciation for the added dimensionality. Seven strings enabled Veil of Maya to explore lower tunings and intricate chord structures, creating a fuller soundscape that resonated with listeners. For instance, tracks like *“Members Only”* showcased how the extended range enhanced the band’s ability to blend technicality with atmosphere, earning praise from fans who noted the music felt “more immersive” and “less confined.” This wasn’t just a change in equipment—it was a transformation in how the band could express their artistry.
Practical tips for fans looking to appreciate this evolution include revisiting earlier albums and comparing them to post-seven-string releases. Pay attention to the bass-heavy passages and the way the guitar work intertwines with the rhythm section. For those playing along, experimenting with seven-string guitars (even in a limited capacity) can provide insight into the technical challenges and creative freedoms the band embraced. This hands-on approach deepens the connection to the music and highlights why the change was so well-received.
Comparatively, Veil of Maya’s transition stands out in the metal scene, where shifts in instrumentation can often polarize audiences. Unlike cases where bands lose their identity in pursuit of novelty, Veil of Maya’s move felt purposeful and aligned with their artistic growth. Fans recognized this, viewing the change not as a departure but as an evolution. The band’s ability to maintain their core sound while expanding its boundaries became a blueprint for how to innovate without alienating a dedicated fanbase.
In conclusion, the fan reception to Veil of Maya’s seven-string switch underscores a broader truth: audiences value authenticity and ambition. By embracing the richer, more dynamic sound it brought, fans didn’t just accept the change—they championed it. This response serves as a reminder that when artists push boundaries with intention and skill, their audience is more than willing to follow.
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Frequently asked questions
Veil of Maya switched to seven-string guitars to expand their sonic range and incorporate lower tunings, allowing for heavier riffs and more complex compositions in their technical deathcore style.
Veil of Maya began incorporating seven-string guitars during the recording of their 2010 album *\[id]*, which marked a shift toward a more progressive and technical sound.
The switch to seven strings allowed Veil of Maya to experiment with deeper, more intricate rhythms and harmonies, enhancing their signature blend of technicality and aggression.
Not all members immediately switched, but guitarist Marc Okubo primarily adopted the seven-string guitar, driving the band's new sound and influencing their songwriting direction.
