Newsted Members, Gear & Sound

Newsted is a heavy metal power trio fronted by former Metallica bassist Jason Newsted, who also handles vocal duties. Formed in 2012, the band includes Jesus Mendez, Jr. on drums and Jessie Farnsworth on guitar. Known for their energetic and powerful sound, Newsted blends elements of thrash and heavy metal, crafting music that both honors and expands upon traditional metal foundations. Their debut EP Metal and full-length album Heavy Metal Music showcase their commitment to delivering hard-hitting, riff-driven tracks.

Newsted's sonic character is characterized by its aggressive, driving rhythms and raw, unpolished energy. The music features a thick, distorted bass tone, often achieved through Jason Newsted's use of the Tech 21 SansAmp Classic and Tech 21 XXL pedals, providing a gritty foundation that complements the relentless guitar riffs delivered by Farnsworth. The guitar work often employs a crunchy, overdriven sound, likely supported by gear like the Marshall JMP-1 Tube MIDI Guitar Preamp, creating a wall of sound that characterizes their music. Drumming by Mendez adds a dynamic and forceful backbone, enhancing the band's high-octane performance and contributing to their vigorous and unyielding metal aesthetic.