Animals as Leaders Members, Gear & Sound
Members
Select a Animals as Leaders band member to check out the music gear they use live and in the studio.
About
Animals as Leaders is an American instrumental progressive metal band renowned for its complex compositions and virtuosic musicianship. Originating from Washington D.C. in 2007, the band consists of Tosin Abasi (guitar), Javier Reyes (guitar), and Matt Garstka (drums). Their music seamlessly blends elements of progressive rock, jazz fusion, and djent, creating an avant-garde soundscape that challenges the boundaries of conventional rock and metal. Initially a solo project by Abasi, Animals as Leaders evolved into a powerhouse trio known for their technical precision and innovative approach, attracting fans across genres.
How to Sound Like Animals as Leaders
Animals as Leaders' sound is a tapestry of intricate guitar work and polyrhythmic drumming, characterized by its crystalline clarity and aggressive complexity. Tosin Abasi and Javier Reyes employ extended-range guitars like the ESP Custom Vintage Plus 8 String, which allow for a broader tonal palette and deep, resonant lows. The percussive grooves provided by Matt Garstka's dynamic drumming add a rhythmic foundation that is both sophisticated and primal. Abasi's use of the Fractal Axe-Fx II Guitar Effects Processor contributes to the band’s rich, layered textures, enabling them to transition seamlessly between ambient soundscapes and crushing metal riffs. This interplay of melody and rhythm is vital to their evocative, storytelling style, offering a profound listening experience that resonates on both an emotional and intellectual level.
Discography
Get the Animals as Leaders Sound
Want to sound like Animals as Leaders? This gear comes straight from the setups of the band's members, based on proven sources. Dive into each artist's page for more detail and inspiration.
