Is Plini Overrated?!

[@JustinHawkinsRidesAgain]

If you fancy seeing me and The Darkness live over the next 2 weeks you can in Cardiff, Liverpool, Glasgow, Manchester, Birmingham, Leeds & London! Tickets: www.thedarknesslive.com/tour-dates/

[@Rather_Disturbed]

Can't wait to see you guys in Liverpool on Sunday!!

[@Marcus_Ramour]

can we request another gig up North for post-June - once the GCSE's are out of the way ;-)

[@NinStardust]

I’m in Cardiff! So excruciatingly excited to see The Darkness and Black Stone Cherry on Saturday! FYI, I’ll be the lunatic trying to look composed whilst simultaneously standing beside herself! 😂😂😂

[@David_Alcazar]

I got tickets two weeks ago. Looking forward. Btw Justin have a look at my covers from the Darkness if you have a minute!

[@davidowens7735]

Hi Justin! Growy here. Enjoyed a couple of your vidz while the missus is reading a bedtime story. Wishing you a lovely evening! :D

[@Bellathor]

Plini is fantastic. "Selenium Forest", "Electric Sunrise", "Every Piece Matters", plenty of great songs - not just guitar wankery, actual songs (instrumentals).

[@jaymueller2418]

Plini isn’t “new”…he has been around for years. He’s beautifully melodic, and to me more accessible than the Ichika Nitro’s and Tim Henson’s of the world.

[@cobbjoe5583]

7 years in the music industry is still very new, guitarists like dave mustaine have been in the music industry for nearly 50 years, I think he just means in the grand scale of things its still fairly new, considering most of the bands people reference are 40-50 years old at this point.

[@DaveAksteter]

@@cobbjoe5583 in the current context of the industry and how it's changed in the last decade and more, he's absolutely not new in the least. He's been engaged since 2012/2013 so think your calculations are a bit off as well.

[@questionmark5463]

Yeah.. Plini to me is like one of the OGs of modern guitar. That dude made Strandberg guitars cool even though they look so dorky and weird.

[@jakel7213]

@@questionmark5463 Only the 6 string Strandbergs look goofy IMO. On 7s and 8s the wider neck "fills out" the silhouette of the guitar and it looks a lot more balanced. (To me at least)

[@questionmark5463]

@@jakel7213 very comfortable to play...but I just think they look weird. Happy with my main G&L Legacy HSS.

[@slickstrings]

Its less about the rock and roll persona and performance, more about the composition and technical qualities without overstating the latter. I think they are great

[@lmp9726]

Perfectly stated. The compositions are fantastic.

[@reptheloeness]

I was raised with a bass playing brother and extremely devoted parents, so we rarely missed a gig. Your description of the "smells" threw me back in time to some of the sketchy surroundings I frequented in my adolescence; where now some of my most cherished memories reside. SuperThanks for that. Enjoy this run of shows! Safe travels--look after one another.

[@JustinHawkinsRidesAgain]

Wow. Thanks so much Chantale, that's incredible kind of you x

[@ianmarsland44]

One of the newer generation of guitarists who inspired me in the same way Steve Vai did 30 years ago. Going to see him in April and I can’t wait!!

[@keithsowerby8179]

The template for fast progressive guitar is still 81 year old John McLaughlin from the Mahavishnu Orchestra 51 years ago. I hope to catch the Shakti tour later this year

[@colinburroughs9871]

Some useful information from scanning this thread. Shakti is a thing that can be seen still? Ohhh

[@julesbrunton1728]

Shakti are touring? Awesome, this video wasn't a waste of time 😃

[@notavictim2007]

As the world gets more complicated, I find this kind of music more moving. It pulls beauty from complexity in a way I strive to with my own life.

[@HorologicRannygazoo]

My two favorite forms of music in the 80's were metal and New Age jazz fusion. Modern prog is like a blend of those. Plini, Arch Echo, I Built the Sky, etc. -- just an absolute joy to listen to the brilliance of these guys. And when you go see these guys live, you will see a sea of musicians, because this is musician's music. This isn't like watching Mutemath, which is also a load of fun. It's more like when I saw Tommy Emmanuel at the Ryman. There's a vibe at these shows where the musicians in the crowd are just so in tune with the band on stage that it's nothing like a regular rock show -- it's awesome, almost spiritual.

[@charliebluechaos4963]

Sounds like videogame music. I absolutely get what you mean! I think studying classical guitar really has a demystifying effect on a lot of this type guitar music where the playing in itself or the "virtuosity" of the player is the "main event," and the compositions themselves kind of fall second place. The issue is that when you know a good dozen individuals in the local conservatory guitar program who can play that just as well, then it stops being quite so interesting all together. It starts feeling like just arpeggiated chord progressions and not much like music in a way. I stopped playing guitar at all (picked up the double bass) for a good 5 years after getting my guitar degree because that's what it all felt like, just chords with different arpeggio patterns. Much love to you Mr. Hawkins ♡

[@BigDamnGyro]

As someone who plays in a video game music band I can agree with this. It's fun, it's difficult, and it's not for everyone. And that's okay. :)

[@andrew6978]

Just posted the same thing, sounds like Sonic the Hedgehog music from 2001....

[@paulolsen602]

Exactly what I was thinking as I heard it, the Sonic the Hedgehog mention is valid

[@iamnotcecil]

"A good dozen individuals" can play this, but they didn't. Plini did. Every guitar player in the world can play what Kurt Cobain wrote. But they didn't. Kurt Cobain did.

[@charliebluechaos4963]

@@iamnotcecil But what Kurt did was interesting beyond its playability. Theres a lot of guitar music very similar to this Plini song, and a lot more of it being written and played almost daily as music theory homework by those in music academia.

[@jacobseal]

Love Plini. I listen to his stuff all the time. It's not boring to be at all. It's great to put on at work to jumpstart my brain.

[@notavictim2007]

Plini mixes the grit of rock with a ethereal/meditative feeling. I would love to see him live and enjoy the flavor he brings.

[@alexandremarchand8815]

He is amazing live, you should really go if you have the chance !

[@jordanbellanca8832]

I think what I love most about Plini is everything you don't like. There is no flashy nonsense, there is no gimmick, not everyone needs to have the crap selling yourself technique the music industry puts off. Plini writes great music period. There is a large audience worldwide that wants to hear and see great music and doesn't need someone to run around like a lunatic during a manic episode to convey that. Music should be about music and nothing more nothing less. If you like shows for jumping around and crazy stage antics cool, but you aren't there for music alone and technically in those genre's the writting takes second fiddle and to me then becomes boring. So all perspective.

[@joeyhoser]

Another perspective(mine) is that this isn't really about the music, this is about showing your fellow guitar nerds how awesome at guitar you are. Everyday people aren't listening to this type of stuff in their car, and there are no girls or non-guitar players in that crowd.

[@jc3drums916]

Music can be about "music and nothing more nothing less." It should be about whatever the musician wants it to be.

[@saughs]

@@joeyhoser It's funny seeing comments about Plini being this great technical guitarist with no soul... I think he's skilled, but nothing amazing. The thing that sets him apart is the skill + the emotions he evokes. I'm learning that many people don't get those emotions from his music, which is interesting and kind of shocking to me.

[@diegosotomiranda4107]

@@joeyhoser tbh everything You said hardly applies to Plini aproach to music, i don't see him being a shiwoff shredder that plays 163718372 notes pero second that it's almost unintelligible just for musician circlejerk, it's really an easy listening and Even "chill" that a Lot of people outside your prejudice view of his musical scene loves, a Lot of people that lostens por like Plini doesnt Even had that profile of "just like super technical okay with no bs"

[@saddingus1331]

@@joeyhoser if you’re listening to music because other people/girls like it then I’m not sure you’re listening to music for the music.

[@staatsanwaltschaftemskirch4709]

I saw them opening for Periphery and they were mind-blowing. Yakub Zytecki was also with them on stage. 10/10

[@matthewchunk3689]

"It don't mean a thing if it ain't got that swing" is my general rule for music. But I don't dismiss musical technicians like a Yakub either. If it inspires and entertains, then that is the ultimate good.

[@neighbourhoodmusician]

I also saw them supporting Periphery and was unfortunately a little bored by them. Great skill but just does nothing for me.

[@Callum-Morrison]

I saw them on that tour as well! Great show.

[@russellzauner]

+1 for Yakub - JH would love that, I'd wager

[@escherpainting8622]

Jakob is the real deal. He means every note. He can shred but the feeling is very tangible. His stuff with Disperse was leagues above. Rafal is also a total legend. I love those guys.

[@kelvinsmyth8365]

Plini is really great live, they have so much fun. Serious about the music but make the experience relaxed and joyful at the same time.

[@raphaelleclair2688]

Saw them live once with Intervals and AAL, it was glorious 🤘🏾 For me this is music at its purest form - kinda like classical and Jazz - where it's more about a conversation or storytelling through music rather than "entertainment" and "show business" stuff were the vocal are the main focus of a song and the music is only for support (background stuff). I think it's not for everyone in the sense that it's not billboard or chart music. It's more abstract like classical and jazz, thus less attractive for the casual music listener. But I don't know

[@TheMatioman]

So glad you checked out Plini. If you get a chance in your spare time I would recommend listening to the song electric sunrise, it's so beautiful and uplifting. The album Hand Made cities is brilliant from start to finish. Perfect to listen to whilst going for a run!

[@curiositydivine]

Absolutely, his albums are my running music! 👍🏻

[@AshersVids]

Or Pan from the newest album. The sax solo builds up and leads seamlessly into soaring guitar. It gave me chills the first several times I listened to it. The whole Sunhead EP is an amazing jazzy musical journey. Going back a few years, Selenium Forest is almost bluesy with tasteful guitar wizardry blended in. Plini has ruined so many of my old guitar heroes for me.

[@TheMatioman]

@@AshersVids I fucking love pan, the sax solo leading into guitar solo with heavy riff in the background! Pure genius

[@GalaxyGirl777]

Plini is incredible. Saw them live a few weeks ago, they sounded insane.

[@TheMeJustMe75]

He and Aaron Marshall are fantastic! I grew up in the 80's and loved Eddie, Randy, Joe, Vai and so many others. I've been playing guitar for almost 30 years and Plini along with Aaron Marshall have reinvigorated me to expand my music knowledge and how I play. I will say this it isn't exciting to watch but sonically it's mind blowing.

[@josiahmathew]

Plini writes the best music melodically. He doesn't have to be shredding the entire time to sound great. Sometimes it's so simple yet so beautiful.

[@jemjoesatch]

The content of the music is fantastic and if you had a few listens through in sure you would be enthralled considering your a decent guitar player. Sad to hear Plini being bashed for his personality and not overly flashy or flamboyant approach.

[@julesbrunton1728]

Music is personality made audible and this guy's music is dull to many of us...don't be offended or take this as a bash..I love that there are so many personalities out there to hear, but this music does nothing for me. Niche is good though... It'd be a sad world if we all liked the same shit

[@seancollins3106]

I can't speak on Plini, but I saw Polyphia last summer, and it was incredible. Their interaction with the crowd was great. The crowd was really into the performance. Unprocessed (Manuel Fernandez) opened and were very good, too. It was a 10/10 show for me!

[@dano8017]

The E note to major 3rd to the Diablo note - in this case an augmented 4th - is the Lydian mode sound, my dear Justin!

[@chrisloesch5854]

Good ear

[@zennydoo]

Beato.

[@paulmallon9292]

@@zennydoo excellent.

[@krispynachos9980]

My thoughts initially, sounds like Lydian

[@aimDiego]

It does sound kind of odd, but it is so much fun to listen to this live, then again, I believe this applies mostly to people that are actually into the genre, I'm not trying to gatekeep anything, it's just that this is not a popular genre, I actually think its audience is pretty specific, my point is, yeah, if you're into it, it's really fun to hear it live!

[@TwoandaHater]

Something like Every Piece Matters would be more in Justin's wheelhouse- being jazzy with more vocal style playing.

[@diegosotomiranda4107]

Tbh maybe his love audience it's niche, but i can assure You his music it's not that complicated to introduce to new listeners this video and some comments makes ot it to be

[@derekm3180]

I like this stuff a lot, it speaks to my old high school guitar fan persona. I understand what you're saying, but I do find a lot of emotion in this technicality. It's under the surface or something.

[@mitiasmirnovmusic]

Just doesn't need to be compared to the kind of normal Rock n Roll music format because it is a completely different type of music. I think it's definitely for those who love the perfection that comes along with this sort of genre of music. The technique, the sound, and the whole production that goes into a show like this is enough to watch this band live and make it super interesting (without the need for any extra theatrical rock n roll stuff). It is a different type of experience, but certainly one worth watching live! I've seen Plini twice, and I'm going to see him a third time this April in the UK. He is without a doubt, one of the greatest guitarists and composers of our time. Although the music isn't for everyone, the material is quite varied. So I believe there is probably at least one or more songs in his catalogue that vibe with everyone. There is a different vibe for each EP and album, and Plini is great to listen to in whole albums to absorb the full picture (rather than tune by tune). Like with a lot of progressive stuff, it also takes a while to become accustomed to the song and they don't often grab you immediately, but that is kind of the beauty of the journey. The overall vibe of the music is also very up-lifting, cinematic and picturesque, which makes it super easy to listen to for most people.

[@mitiasmirnovmusic]

​@@glenh2752 Plini is inspired by Vai, but his music is far from what Vai's is like (other than the fact they both shred quite a bit). I think many would agree (not everyone) with Plini is way more memorable and melodic in comparison to Steve Vai's catalogue. Plini's EP/Albums seem a lot more cohesive to me with melody and theme/vibe. The whole music is incredibly well thought out and it's a lot more that sticks in the memory (so, more catchy)! + They all give off a really down to earth vibe when the play live in comparison. Dunno why but Plini's music just isn't the same as Steve Vai, Joe Satriani, John Petrucci etc. It's inspired by all that stuff, but the music belongs on another plane. Something about it is proper ethereal in comparison. Anyway I don't feel like you can judge an artist by one song, and this song may not be the right one. Just my opinion

[@curiositydivine]

Dude, thank you! I knew Plini was touring in Australia but hadn’t heard he was coming to London until I read your comment. Just booked my ticket at the electric ballroom. This will be my first Plini gig. Thank you my man!

[@mitiasmirnovmusic]

@@curiositydivine Glad I could help!

[@hazardeur]

dude, his stuff sounds so much the same it isn't even funny. and always that clean sterile uplifting vibe, it never changes. it's missing a lot of depth, some dirt here and there or something that brings tension in the note choices. greatest composers of our time? you got to be shitting me. this is standard guitar noodling (the standard nowdays is quite high in terms of techqiue to be fair) with shallow songwriting. In this genre i much prefer stuff like Liminal by Exivious. it blows this stuff right out of the water in every department and is just as flashy too. it's just much more interesting to listen to. My standards might be high as I came into the shred world 25 years ago by discovering steve vai but man, talking about varied. there's more variation in a single vai song than in this guy's entire discography lol. reminds me of the principles of the djent movement. all these copycat bands took one singeld out element from another band and based a whole genre on it, a incredibly boring sounding one and it's the same here, this guy just focused on the lydian feelgood shred parts

[@mitiasmirnovmusic]

@@hazardeur Each to their own mate! The good thing about the universe is there is something for everyone. If we all liked and appreciated the same things then there would be absolutely no diversity or variety to make it interesting! Personally I think he's really good

[@eamonnparsons3155]

Living in Australia, I've had the pleasure of seeing Plini play live. And indeed. It's a different type of performance than your typical 'rock'n'roll' show. Think of it like an orchestral performance, everyone standing/sitting there in awe of the player's talents in just pure appreciation for the show of song-writing and raw playing ability. The thing that struck me the most is that like you mentioned, a lot of guitarists will hide sloppy live playing behind sheer sound/gain/effects/etc. But all their effects are midi controlled, all his focus is on the guitar, and it shows, because with some high-fidelity earplugs in, they sound just as good and clear as the studio release. If you ever get the chance to see them play, I would definitely recommend. Perhaps not as 'memorable' as an energetic and charismatic front-man, or a wild, intense moshpit, but so good nonetheless.

[@Randyolsson]

Amazing new touch, not boring what so ever. Takes a while to get used to it though and if u dont like instrumental music it of course isnt for you

[@TheSilentStan]

Loving all these videos. Justin is the gift that keeps on giving lately. This channel (and my cat 🐈‍⬛) are my only sources of Serotonin lately 😂 Hope he does one on Doctor Jones by Aqua or another Vengaboys song soon… they’re always fun. 😂

[@mattbrillhart2922]

I’ve tried so hard…and I just can’t get into this style of music. Respect the talent immensely, just not the flavor I’d ever choose. But, these style of artists push the limits and I feel they are re-energizing interest in guitar which is always good.

[@eidetecker]

I grew up on 70s and 80s jazz and fusion-jazz. So, I've been unimpressed with a lot for 30 years or so. When I discovered Plini, I was happy that *THIS* could be popular enough to warrant a small movement. Plini culminates everything I want in music. I'm rooting for Plini and his band of merry Aussies to keep going and keep doing "sick shit," as Plini and Tosin have stated as their main goals.

[@sloth_e]

It's like a conversation with an engineer when you'd rather hang out with an artist.

[@manyvibes1540]

💜

[@lukewhelandrums8762]

My band had the pleasure of Supporting Plini a few years ago. He was a lovely fella, and his band were amazing. His playing blew my mind. And he has a very dry sense of humour. He’s hilarious . If you love proggy type of guitar music then he’s at the top end of the list I reckon

[@oststadtseuche]

After listening to Prog Rock/Metal/Death/whatever for decades, I have to admit that this style of music is only a self-affirming repetition of formerly surprising elements. Just like it is the case in all other music genres. In the end there is the song and what this song has to say to you.

[@lebannerfan65]

Perfectly said. Even this Plini song is so formulaic now, I could basically predict the shape and general substance of most parts and sections. Just tropey repetition for the most part.

[@hazardeur]

i never liked this weirdly positive atmosphere of the plini songs, especially the older stuff and in general a lot of these new artists like that. it sounds so sterile in a way. sounds to me like it's in lydian all the time, which itr probably isn't but it's just missing some dirt notes every once in a while. maybe it's just too naively positive sounding to me all the time

[@user-oy7gz5bf2h]

Cascade is from Handmade Cities, my favorite of theirs. In my opinion, their most inspired and melodic. Plini is it's own thing. I wouldn't compare Al Di Meola and Led Zeppelin.

[@RyunWould]

Kind is my jam.

[@bimscutney1242]

For me this is like watching someone who is the best at something doing something you hate the most.

[@bobgreen8142]

Yep. This kind of playing does nothing for me, really. Sorry.

[@DeadFlowers69]

This comment made me laugh because it's true.

[@TheEleatic]

Correct. Give me a few bars of David Gilmour or Jeff Beck. Go listen to Kind of Blue or Blue.

[@bumnutz09]

@@bobgreen8142 your just not ready for it yet. Your little pea brain can't comprehend the brilliance

[@michaelcantley9843]

😂😂🤣

[@jessemansbridge4858]

I watched them live last year opening for Northlane and they were incredible. Most of the people were there for some headbanging and moshing so didn't know what to do and either stood there awkwardly or attempted to mosh. I was there for the opening acts (Plini & Sleep Token) and it was beautiful. I treated it as more of a jazz performance then a rock performance, you listen and admire their skill and storytelling. Some of their other songs are more melodic and soft which were better to listen to, and they did solo sections and expanded on their discography. Can totally understand it's not everyone's thing though.

[@Viper-dz2kw]

First thing I thought when I read that was how weird plini before Northlane would be lol

[@jessemansbridge4858]

@@Viper-dz2kw I mean my music tastes are all over the shop so I loved it but many people were very confused.

[@smashville2897]

Everything you explained is the perfect description or Harpos in Detroit. As soon as you walk through the front door you can smell the years of body funk and sour beer. It’s amazing.

[@CabjoyAU]

No joke, I watched this in the morning and saw Plini live tonight. News travels fast Justin, they walked out to I Believe in a Thing Called Love 😂

[@brownsworthy7323]

Perfect timing, I'm going to see Plini tomorrow night with Protest the Hero and I Built the Sky should be a night full of guitar shredding brilliance!

[@216trixie]

It has its place. It's metal and it's music but it's not rock and roll.

[@Jacko4859]

Plini is definitely one my favourite guitarists, up there with Guthrie and buckethead to me. All 3 produce such incredible guitar driven music i can’t pick who I like more on any given day. However I would say plini does have my favourite instrumental ever written being I’ll tell you some day.

[@Callum-Morrison]

I really love Plini. I think what I love about the music is the fact that it somehow sounds heavy and chilled out at the same time. I love listening to really heavy stuff but I don't really want to chill out to it. Obviously I also admire the guitar technique and dedication to the craft but for me that really isn't what stands out from Plini's music.

[@supernothing77]

Maybe it's the smooth compressed guitar tone

[@j_murdoch]

Interestingly enough, my favourite song by Plini is called Heart. I think it feels more like a song than this does in the traditional sense, despite also being an instrumental. Have a good time on tour!

[@soumakbasak9848]

I love heart and you might be right, it's one of the most traditional song he has with a recognizable chorus melody . It's lovely all the same

[@user-bj2lu9qt3o]

Hair is looking so fine right now. That's all I gotta say. 🤷🏻‍♀️

[@flor9389]

I can appreciate the talent and technique while considering the music something that would just play in the background.

[@doom-mantia]

That's exactly it. It's impresive execution but the songs themselves just can't hold my attention. To me Plini sounds like a guy soloing over his own backing track - that doesn't make it a 'song'

[@MrBlueBrains]

Dude, shutup for 10 seconds..lol

[@jefftucker201]

This is one of those artists where I can appreciate the talent/skill/hard work but the music its self, does nothing for me. its what I would describe as "Modern Classical Music" and yes, I do realise how stupid that sounds. Not wishing to take anything away from it and I am glad people enjoy it. each to their own. :) Good vid as always Justin, see you in London on the 4th! :)

[@ChrisLeeW00]

It’s like caviar, but usually I want a burrito

[@Ryguypie17]

This was the case for me until I heard their newest album "Impulse Voices" - it's the only Plini album I really listen to but I've listened probably near a hundred times

[@MaliciousChickenAgenda]

That’s exactly how I feel about stuff like this. I was persuaded to go see Dream Theatre around 10 or so years ago. I still call it the sore feet concert cause I was standing there for bloody ages whilst they played incredibly long, intricate songs. Extremely talented musicians and I will admit hearing their song the count of tuscany live was an experience but I wouldn’t go again, just not my thing.

[@MaliciousChickenAgenda]

Something else quite amusing just popped into my head about Dream Theatre - am I alone in finding Jordan Rudess’ wizard hat incredibly annoying? Is it just me or does he put it on then proceed to go absolutely batshit on the keyboard 😂 look how many notes I can play at astronomical speeds! Yes very impressive but it gets a bit jarring for me after two minutes. Yeah I know I’m being petty and silly and I’m aware he’s a shit hot keyboard player but it is funny to watch sometimes. I’m simultaneously impressed and irritated by it, it’s like yeah that’s awesome 🤩 please stop 😂

[@ileutur6863]

@@ChrisLeeW00 and that's exactly why the charts are full of bland garbage. Everyone wants a burrito

[@getbrutal4388]

I get an extremely satisfying emotional response from basically all Plini songs, and this one especially. The chord changes, the melodies, so much of it is so satisfying. I've seen them live and it was fuckin' mind blowing, a real crazy party.

[@alexhel3632]

I'd love to see a look at TTNG, for me they are a fantastic blend of technical ability and emotive vocals and lyricism.

[@ilostmehkeysandphone7540]

I feel the same way about live music. If I want to listen to the album I'll listen to the album. Live I always want to hear something novel and experience the bands stage presence not just who has the best light show or visual artist. Most of these prog musicians have some incredible music theory knowledge and I feel it wouldn't be too difficult for them to step out of key for bit, improvise, ect. Ya know make music fun not something almost robotic.

[@blackphoenixfamily8477]

I agree with you about the aspects of a performance, but I think also that the sonic assault that these prog`ish musicians put out counter balances the 'lack' of choreography that you are talking about.....¯\_(ツ)_/¯

[@DeanEGardiner]

Saw them last night at the Metro in Sydney. All virtuoso players weaving complex progressions and melodies, pretty much pure innovativation. Seeing the live is like watching really good fusion jazz players, however in a rock / metal genre. Not everyone's cup of tea I guess, you probably need to be a musician that plays across different genres to really appreciate what they are doing.

[@Traumglanz]

Grandma was totally into Electric Sunrise when she ask why she should baby sit and who this Plini is. So seems pretty approachable to me. And a 3 year old was dancing before the Venue last night turning sound check and ask his dad if they could go in. Heck even my own three year old was totally in them and would loved to come with me to the concert last night.

[@MrJacobThrall]

It's rock instrumentation but a jazz/classical approach, and it's very difficult to break out of the mindset that that's the wrong thing to do with rock instruments - or the wrong instruments to use for that approach. We know that drums, bass and distorted guitars mean rock and roll attitude, catchy singalong rabble-rousing stuff, so this, which doesn't do that, therefore feels like empty virtuosity...something to admire rather than enjoy. You don't have to be a snob or a purist (or ignoramus) to feel like that - if you've been immersed in the normality of any art form for long enough, it can become challenging to actually enjoy wildly tangential variants of it at a truly emotional level, however much admiration you might muster for the talent or expertise. If you don't come at it with those expectations of what music "should be", then of course, it's a very different story. I suspect that lack of baggage is quite rare though.

[@ryukan250]

Plini might not be flashy but he's pretty accessible as far as the genre goes. However, "Atlas Novus" by Scale the Summit is still the gold standard instrumental metal song of the past 10 years for me. And that includes songs by Animals as Leaders, Cloudkicker, Chon, Polyphia, Jakub Zytecki, Plini etc

[@johnnydeadlyLWI]

Loving the channel, it’s got me listening to music I usually wouldn’t bother with. I’m sure you have been asked this before but was I Believe In A Thing Called Love based on Rob The Bank by Rene Berg or is it just one of those musical coincidences? If so how about a little feature on the 80’s/90’s UK sleaze/glam scene and the influence it had on a lot of bands now.

[@LunatiqueRob]

I find the criticism of Plini misguided because so much of a musician's choices are rooted in their personality and musical aspirations. If Plini played a Les Paul slung low with the swagger of a rock god, and played with a lot more dirt and attitude, he would not be himself anymore, and wouldn't be able to play as well as he does because highly technical playing requires ergonomic posture. Fans of his love him and his music for who he is and what is reflected of himself in his music. The man has a degree in architecture and is soft-spoken with a sunny and laid-back disposition, and you can hear that clearly in his music. I don't want him to be Hendrix or Vai or EVH or whoever else is deemed flashy enough to get the rocker's stamp of approval. I couldn't care less about the macho posturing and rocker attitude--that shit is so outdated and cringe. None of the new generation of influential guitarists are like that--not Tosin Abasi, not Tim Henson, and not Plini. The new generation is so over the rockstar posturing bullshit--they just focus on being amazing musicians. If Plini is boring by those standards, then so be it--I love my good boy Plini. Also, prog musicians are a different breed from your typical rocker. Different musical aspirations and creative visions. To judge a prog musician by typical rocker criteria is just as misguided as if a prog musician judged a typical rock musician and say that his knowledge of music theory is shallow, his technique primitive and sloppy, the composition/arrangement pedestrian, and the macho posturing showmanship is akin to a circus performer entertaining the audience instead of focusing on just being the best musician possible and let the music do the talking.

[@alexandremarchand8815]

One of the only sane comment in this whole section. It's the first time I see so many people randomly bashing Plini. He is such a good player and a great dude.

[@galetinm]

There are a lot of guitar players old and new who don't do macho posturing, exactly for the same reasons, they loathe all the macho BS, but are still exciting to look at. A lot of them don't play this heavy either because of the same reasons. That's one of the reasons I don't like most of heavy music. This just isn't exciting. This is a heavy genre, heavy riffs and solo playing, and most of it comes from some type of emotion, and has a type of fans, roots of this type of genre are inherently macho, that's why fans of this type of genre are missing that. I'm saying that he has no problem playing macho licks and sounds, but posturing is the thing he draws a line in the sand for? Not only that he doesn't do that, he doesn't have to, but he doesn't do anything else either. No emotion in his playing at all. Fans like to see some type of emotion when they go to a gig, macho or otherwise. You can't see even if he's enjoying playing this. He just stands there with a straight face, guitar high up on his chest, no movement at all. Boring.

[@jamesclawson9243]

​@@galetinmPlini is an introvert. He's said it before somewhere that he'd rather be home recording new songs than out touring. Not to say he doesn't enjoy playing live at all. That being said this is a particular chill video. Check out other live concert performances. He's a joy to watch and definitely is enjoying himself.

[@jamesclawson9243]

This was beautifully put. Very eloquent writing, and logical. This is how I feel 100%. Part of the reason I don't like most vocals in bands either is so much of it feels cringe to me. Especially growling and screaming. But also, I'm not an angry dude so maybe it's just too unrelatable to get. Thank you for expressing my thoughts and feelings better than I can.

[@frederickbaggett936]

The reason why the flat 5 or Diablo note against E doesn’t sound “evil” is because he’s playing it in the context of the Lydian mode of E.

[@strummer33]

Beato.

[@julesbrunton1728]

Then it ain't a flat 5 it's a raising 4th

[@DaveDuncanMusic]

The smell of marijuana is a rock show standard lol

[@216trixie]

I kept waiting for him to say that.He didn't I think on purpose. Not sure why LOL.

[@hamhamhamhamify]

Hey mate, I often thought that the choreography in The Darkness live performances may have a Thin Lizzy influence...? The switch of guitarists from side to side etc was so reminiscent of watching Lizzy. Yeah I'm old, Zep, Lizzy and AC/DC live in that order. Thank you for introducing me to new music on this channel!

[@blastbeatinc]

I saw Plini open for Tesseract in Sydney a number of years ago. He was clearly talented at the time but was just breaking through and he had absolutely no stage presence, but you could see how the music resonated with the crowd despite that and it’s great to see him everywhere now.

[@edbrandt8972]

Justin...thanks again for expanding my musical horizons

[@_alifeallmine_]

Saw them with Caligula’s Horse (you really should listen to something of theirs), and live is was really compelling, great to watch.

[@ewokwithapurplepentappytap6590]

Accidently tapped on another video during your awesome outro, came back to finish. One of the few channels I listen till the very end ... Love eeeet. Pew pew

[@frankshannon340]

Give me Rory Gallagher doing Shadow Play live anyday, but I'm just an old git who grew up on rock and roll what do i know.

[@1Moonchild]

My thoughts exactly. Give me Rory Gallagher doing anything. Seeing Rory live was literally life changing for me - it was soul-stirring, intoxicating. This stuff is the antithesis of that.

[@bobbymercer77]

His technique is outstanding and completely out of the realm of anything I'd ever be able to duplicate, but I do understand what you are saying. You want to feel a great rock riff, that's fun, with lots of feeling. I believe you should do a video on a Clutch song (there are so many good ones). Seems like you'd have a blast with their entire ensemble. Great video as usual. Keep it going dude!

[@alexrico9989]

Plini is incredible. Always make an effort to see him live when he comes through Chicago. Obviously a virtuouso with guitar but a very underrated song writer

[@trapset1539]

"Other things" and "wombat astronaut" are two of the most beautiful pieces of music I have ever heard. Plini's extraterrestrial 👽 oh and can't forget "Salt and Charcoal" Fn amazing!!!

[@chadmarx7718]

I find it insane anyone can have a negative opinion towards Plini and/or his music lol I'll admit that as a beginner guitarist i came to Plini for the chops. But as I matured musically, i realized the chops almost don't matter anymore because his songs stood on their own regardless. He has a great ear for melody and great composing skills. Just listen to his EP trilogy from front to end and tell me that doesn't make you feel anything

[@newwavepop]

i have never been able to get into Prog at all, ever. i appreciate the skill level but it does nothing for me the same with all that Jazz that a lot of people like. its the same just in general with this kind of instrumental music, sometimes i like a song here and there but for the most part listening to songs based based around complicated technical playing or around just endless pointless shredding just dont do anything for me. when i really love music is when i am in some way connecting with it, and i dont emotionally connect with a guitar or a drum i emotionally connect ith a person. not all of the music i love is because of amazing singers or amazing lyrics but when i really really connect with a song and am moved it is because i am feeling and sharing the emotions or an experience with the vocalist. also i often find that a really simple basic primal riff connects with me more than fancy stuff ever does, it is the reeason so many kids connected with Punk back during Progs heyday. there is a power to simple and basic when done well by he right people. it is all part of why i do not like new music at all of any genre for the last 30 years, and today with all the autotune and pitch correction and everything being lined perfectly on the grid and all this modern production stuff i do not like new music at all.

[@sixslinger9951]

same, just like I can't get into 99.5% of Jazz either.

[@weedywet]

think what Pini could accomplish if he were awake whilst playing

[@RyunWould]

What a take! You should do BB king next. He sat down a lot and didn't even wear makeup!

[@Xxmax8maxxX]

I feel Plini is more sit back and chill music. It has a very chill and almost sunny uplifting feeling when you aren't analyzing every note. But I think Polyphia is too much as well so who am I to judge

[@supernothing77]

It's kinda in between Chon and Polyphia (?)...idk I really try to give this stuff a chance but I get bored of it quickly.

[@AdemVessell]

Totally with you. Often I find newer sensational players and bands to feel show offy in a way. I don’t feel moved by this or by most any instrumental new guitar music. Of course it’s impressive but that’s not why I make or listen to music. Kudos to them in any regard.

[@sapcantsing]

I guess the point of prog instrumental music is to really help you study and finish those college assignments at 3 AM. Massive fan of Plini & Polyphia btw

[@hannanathan564]

4:23 I think you’re right. That phrase is contextualized as being in E Lydian (the fourth mode of B Ionian) which is why the Tritone in this instance gives the “spacey” feeling of a raised 4th degree, as opposed to the “evil” feeling of the lowered 5th. Though the notes are enharmonic equivalents, they have functionally unique contextualizations. The presence of the major third (G# from the E) I think is a good clue for this.

[@McPilch]

Pain of Salvation is the pinnacle. They for me are the perfect blend of proggy, metal, soulful, unique, genre-melding, visionary, without being pretentious like all these other modern "artists".

[@fathuman]

Oh wow its rare to see Pain of Salvation being mentioned outside of PoS circles. BE was all about having conversations with god so I don't know about not being pretentious hehe. But yeah I love them, they can be technical but not never in a 'bet you can't play this' kind of way.

[@Weloz92]

Great band, loved them for years! 👍

[@tmrtyn]

Plini, Animals as Leaders, Polyphia...I love them all, great stuff, but I think of them as "Guitar Music for Guitarists". Definitely not for everyone.

[@Em022]

this is an interesting point. I enjoy listening to technical music but I do think that I like it more for the technique of the playing than being a song that I can dance and have fun with. I think just having lyrics alone builds a better connection to the song since everyone can speak words but not everyone can shred like a god.

[@cflowers69]

Love hearing you sing the intro and outro.

[@captainzero119]

Saw him play a couple of years ago, completely a fucking boss !

[@ImminentG]

Justin, can you do 'Daydreamers' by David Maxim Micic? I have a feeling you'd find the acoustic section and solo (which he has a playthrough video of) quite tasteful. He's also prog metal maestro scene but by far the least flashy of them and probably the best of them when it comes to writing with a sense of narrative. Either way just wanted to say I'm a big fan of yours + especially PTL- I told a lot of friends and family to go F themselves when they made fun of me for loving it way back in '03 (still do today). Thank you!

[@danr6175]

Plini is unique in his talent, his playing and the sense of melody. Plini is a wizzard

[@coreyrramsay8858]

That comment about looking at the pedals on stage is literally me at every show. These days though it's mostly just Axe FX and Quad Cortexs.

[@luvincste]

plini is just great, i don't know if i can describe it, it's years of prog and a multitude of artists culminating in a single entity; also i have enough of people saying "yeah cool they can play their ass off, super technical stuff, but..." dude we're here for the music, * the music * , can i say it again one more time, *the music*

[@floyd75dylan]

I think the keyboardist should dress up in a wizard’s outfit like Rick Wakeman when he was in Yes.

[@Daz21721]

Undoubtedly a great talent . I don’t think I could listen to music like this now . Once I did . Surfing with the alien is somewhere in my collection . Thanks once again Justin for bringing us interesting different music I would never of heard about .

[@filton12]

Your keyboard player comment reminded me of Ron Mael. Have you seen the Edgar Wright documentary about Sparks? Way more interesting than I had expected.

[@GeorgeThorogood83]

Plini is awesome live.

[@AidanMillward]

At a technical level this sort of thing is off the scale. But it does nothing for me at an emotional level. I’m one of those “old school rockers” who played in bands with low slung Les Pauls and played in dingy pubs. The sort of stuff where it’s just raw and it doesn’t matter if you play a wrong note or it’s sloppy cos you’re having fun and they’re having fun. This, and even stuff like Satch and Vai have never really appealed to me. Its borderline robotic, like something you’d see on the dvd that comes with Guitarist Magazine.

[@clairenewsome]

I'm sorry Justin but ... what the F?? Plini ist a genius! His band is smashing it! And be sure you can dance to this music, it is sky openingly fantastic!! I'm looking so so forward to seeing him live in March, finally! If you can find the time for it, check out the Paris gig on YT. It's one perfect example for how enjoyable this music is. The crowd is vibing! I LOVE it!! 🤷‍♀😂❤‍🔥

[@sixslinger9951]

no thanks

[@clairenewsome]

@@sixslinger9951 you don't have to. It was a suggestion for musically open people who are interested in cool new music. Looks like you don't belong. That's fine. 😌

[@valebliz]

Tbh the man hardly express opinions with any more depth than the common boomer in the comments section.

[@sixslinger9951]

@@valebliz OK Groomer

[@valebliz]

@@sixslinger9951 and here’s proof.

[@BobbyCulpepper.srv3fender]

It's like going to see a magician, but you already know how it's done

[@1Hozzer]

Nick Johnston is where it’s at for melody, feel and technique.

[@jessejames128]

Justin...you and I exclaimed "vibraphone?" at the exact same time. Nice one cousin 💚🎶

[@horizonmastering6502]

If you want silly outfits and more rocking out, here's modern prog with both!! kzbin.info/www/bejne/fH65e4SCrc2fiZo Big love Justin x

[@maxicurnow1030]

Yees!

[@MaxiCurnow]

It would make my year Justin, I grew up on Permission to Land 😍

[@BoagsBugger]

Have you ever reacted to the "Church of the cosmic skull"? I am curious about what you'd think about Bill Fisher's guitar playing and writing. Quite the opposite from this.

[@joemarklin]

It's like video game music, I don't get it, but good for them for doing their thing and there is obviously a lot of people that want to come out and see it, so I think it is good for music.

[@NonchalantEnigma]

Justin, you have the most ordered, clean rehearsal space kitchen I have ever seen, look at those glasses, the way they are set out so precisely. I salute you sir, You should do a video on the artist SYML btw

[@JBLFC92]

Periphery, Metallica, Alter Bridge and Plini in the last few days... you sir, are on it. Saw Plini supporting Periphery - needless to say, such a good gig. I get what you mean about being "static" but this isn't a gig; it's a "live performance", and Plini wasn't like that when I saw him in London.

[@jamesclawson9243]

Yeah, the Plini concert I went to this year was plenty lively. But also he's just a chill dude. He's not a rock star, he's a composer and guitarist. I honestly think that's part of why I am attracted to his music is he seems like the kind of person I'd hang out with.

[@bennymountain1]

Man, I love this tune! Handmade Cities is amazing start to finish.