Wall of Voodoo Members, Gear & Sound
US rock band from L.A.
Members
Select a Wall of Voodoo band member to check out the music gear they use live and in the studio.
About
Wall of Voodoo is an American band that emerged from Los Angeles' vibrant music scene in 1977, initially starting as a soundtrack company. The group originally consisted of Stan Ridgway (vocals, keyboards), Marc Moreland (guitar), Bruce Moreland (bass, keyboards), Chas Gray (keyboards), and Joe Nanini (drums). Known for their unique blend of New Wave, Synthpop, and Post-punk, Wall of Voodoo gained fame with their 1982 hit "Mexican Radio." The band's sound was heavily influenced by Ridgway’s cinematic storytelling, which often referenced Westerns and film noir, combined with an atonal and electronic backdrop.
How to Sound Like Wall of Voodoo
Wall of Voodoo's music is characterized by its quirky, minimalistic soundscapes that blend synthesized textures with twangy, Western-inspired guitar riffs. This fusion creates an atmosphere that is both eccentric and haunting, heavily relying on the interplay between electronic elements and raw guitar tones. The Gibson Flying V, used by Marc Moreland, contributes to the band's sharp and angular guitar sound, while Stan Ridgway’s use of the Kurzweil K2500 synthesizer adds depth and a distinct, eerie texture to their arrangements. The rhythmic foundation, often driven by pulsing basslines and mechanical drum patterns, provides a steady, hypnotic groove that anchors their sound, allowing the ethereal and narrative elements to shine through.
Discography
Get the Wall of Voodoo Sound
Want to sound like Wall of Voodoo? 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.