Shadows Fall Guitarist Jon Donais Changes Live Rig To Rivera To Everyone's Surprise

Yes I'm a fan of Heavy Metal fucking kings,Shadows Fall.They are not quite speed or death metal,which most fans wouldn't listen too for too long.

They give rock n' roll the edge and feeling most metal bands can't.

I was intrigued that Jon Donais changed from his present live rig to Rivera.Jon was at the 08' NAMM and was blown away.Note definition is high on his list as far as what to look for in a high quality amp and cabinet.

Rivera has always been more of a boutique amp rig that for the average player is way beyond their pocketbook. Now I'm paraphrasing here,but I think Jon is also looking for an incredible crunch,but not a muddy one.Especially when you play loud enough to burst ear drums and sound systems.


Jon was also looking for the type of attack when soloing it would give amazing tone that was in sync with the rig,guitar, and effects set up that blew away everybody,including the house engineer.Just my theory.

Jon also uses EMG pickups on the bridge and neck.

I guess I never thought of Rivera as really a live concert rig, but more of a club or session rig more.

One thing Jon said was it was hard to amp your own guitar.

That puzzles me to some degree.Not that he doesn't know what he's doing,because he's an incredible player.But the fact that we are all a work in progress,and the fact I said to Dee Curtis my consultant here at Canadian Guitar Player that I wanted to learn how to set up my amp and bass before I learn to play.


So hopefully,that little insight gives more players incentive to play.Tone and setting up your amp and guitar is tough,even for the best players.

Even Tiger Woods has a caddy.Meaning someone to help you.
That's why player have Guitar Techs.

I'm going to put this out there,I'm going to interview Jon Donais.If I'm not successful I will write for free,articles for 3 bands for 3 months.

So this interview with Jon Donais should tell you that you should always use better equipment,but know how to use it to help your band's sound.

I'm including links to Rivera and EMG pickups which are two top notch
music equipment companies.

http://rivera.com

http://emginc.com