Members
Select a The Checks band member to check out the music gear they use live and in the studio.
About
The Checks were a dynamic blues-based hard rock band hailing from New Zealand, formed in 2002. The group consisted of Ed Knowles (vocals), Sven Pettersen (guitar), Callum Martin (guitar), Karel Chabera (bass), and Jacob Moore (drums). Known for their energetic live performances and gritty, guitar-driven sound, The Checks quickly made a name for themselves on the international stage, sharing tours with iconic bands like Muse, Oasis, and R.E.M. Their music is a captivating blend of rock, blues, and a touch of garage rock flair, encapsulated in their debut album, Hunting Whales, which was released following their move to England in 2006.
How to Sound Like The Checks
The Checks' music is characterized by raw, energetic guitar riffs and tight, driving rhythms. To emulate their sound, focus on crisp, punchy guitar tones that can be achieved using overdrive and distortion pedals to create the gritty texture prominent in their recordings. Their dual-guitar arrangements often feature interplay between rhythm and lead parts, with one guitar providing solid chordal foundations and the other delivering blues-inflected solos. A tube amplifier can help capture the warmth and depth of their sound, while the bass provides a steady, groove-oriented backbone. The drumming is powerful and precise, with an emphasis on straightforward rock beats that propel the music forward without overshadowing the melodic elements. Embrace a live, unpolished feel in production to reflect the band's raw energy and vibrant stage presence.
