Feeling burdened by multiple guitars, Skunk Baxter, a renowned session musician, owns an innovative guitar setup that likely surprises many.
In a recent interview with Guitarist magazine, Jeff "Skunk" Baxter opened up about his preferred gear setup, revealing a focus on versatility and a strong affinity for Roland equipment.
At the heart of Baxter's rig is the Roland G-5, a Fender Stratocaster guitar fitted with Roland modeling electronics. This innovative instrument allows Baxter to switch between electric 12-string, baritone, nylon-string, and open G tuning sounds at the flick of a switch, eliminating the need to carry multiple guitars for diverse tonal needs.
The Roland G-5 is not just a single-toned instrument. Its trio of single-coils can be rebuffed to sound like humbuckers, and it includes Tele and Strat sounds in its library of pickup replicating sounds. This versatility makes it suitable for various playing styles, including slide guitar.
Baxter's amplifier and multi-effects pedal setup are also heavily Roland-based, although specific models were not detailed in the interview. However, it is known that he uses the Roland Blues Cube Artist combo amp, a versatile piece of equipment with a Tone Capsule that can be plugged in to modify its circuit and alter its characteristics.
The partnership between Baxter and Roland goes beyond just using their products. Baxter worked closely with the company to customize his guitar design, resulting in a unique and tailored instrument that perfectly suits his needs.
Baxter's versatility extends beyond his gear choices. As a session player for artists such as Eric Clapton, Gene Simmons, and Donna Summer, he is known for his stylistically diverse day job. His ability to switch between genres and tones effortlessly is a testament to his skill and the power of his Roland-centric rig.
Whether it's the electric 12-string, baritone, nylon-string, or open G tuning sounds, Baxter can change his voice at the flick of a switch, making him a formidable force in the music industry. With his Roland G-5 guitar and Roland-based amplifier and pedal setup, Baxter is well-equipped to tackle any musical challenge that comes his way.
- Jeff "Skunk" Baxter's primary guitar in his rig is the Roland G-5, a Fender Stratocaster with Roland modeling electronics, which allows for multiple tuning sounds without the need for multiple guitars.
- The Roland G-5 has three single-coils that can mimic humbuckers, and it includes Tele and Strat sounds among its replicas of pickup sounds, providing versatility for various playing styles.
- Baxter's amplification setup and multi-effects pedal configuration are predominantly Roland-based, but the specific models were not mentioned in the interview.
- Baxter collaborated with Roland to customize his guitar design, resulting in a personalized and adaptable instrument that fits his specific needs.
- Baxter, a session player for artists like Eric Clapton, Gene Simmons, and Donna Summer, demonstrates stylistic diversity in his work, effortlessly switching between genres and tones.
- With the Roland G-5 guitar and Roland-based amplifier and pedal setup, Baxter has the capacity to tackle a wide range of musical challenges, from the electric 12-string to open G tuning sounds.
- Baxter's rig, emphasizing versatility and leveraging Roland equipment, has a notable impact in the entertainment industry, enabling him to change his music style and tone quickly and seamlessly.
