Plini - "THE GLASS BEAD GAME" (Live 2023)

recorded on February 3 at 170 Russell, Melbourne
www.plini.co
guitar: Jake Howsam Lowe
bass: Simon Grove
drums: Chris Allison
keys: Dave Mackay
live sound: Ronnie Young
lighting design: Luke Thiel
audio mixed & mastered by Ronnie Young
direction/cinematography: Jamie McVicker
gimbal operator: Ryan Sauer
camera operators: Decklan Blackall, Flick Smith, Michael Ciarlo, Sam Tan
© 2023 Plini.

[@sanfords]

This is a perfect example of a man that knows how to make beautiful music instead of just hard-to-play music. He takes his time and builds the song with subtle nuances, breath, timing and beautifully melodic melodies that make the soul fly to another world. By the time you are done, it is as if you had a spiritual experience. Thank you PLINI for such wonderful beauty!

[@Coastfog]

Yeah, really good observation. For example - I absolutely love Animals As Leaders, but I think they get a little lost in their own virtuosity sometimes. Listening to AAL is more like solving a very hard sudoku, which can be very fun and rewarding, but still is a mental exercise. With Plini, I can enjoy the songs without making it a polyrhythm clinic, they tap straight into my "just stop thinking and enjoy it" part of the brain, and there's still so much to discover if you feel like digging deeper.

[@averkinswing7891]

Plini is “LESS IS MORE”

[@kevinxsavagegm]

His compositions remind me a lot of the kind of stuff Joe Satriani would write.

[@aaroncardozo3700]

Beautiful words inspired by this music 🔥

[@DexterDexter123]

yep - it’s got to have a good melody. ❤

[@AlfredoEscalante]

What a production and sound quality! Plini, I'd pay good money for a 4k bluray of a live release with an awesome 7.1 mix... I'm sure many would too!!

[@scott4097]

Yes please.

[@BionicleSaurus]

This is one of those songs where when I'm listening to it, I can't help but feel utterly convinced that it's the best song I've ever heard.

[@b_ryc]

I feel that way about multiple Plini songs honestly lol. I am particularly addicted to Handmade Cities and Flaneur... but yeah this one is there too.

[@Jon77777]

I second that completely!!

[@vincentlopez8404]

X2

[@oddfuzz]

Woah if Simon can just blast an absolute perfected solo like that any time, he needs to swap in way more often. 🤌

[@kane6529]

He’s a machine

[@trubud86]

Why? We need more bass players like Simon. I play guitar. And he is one of my favorite all time bassist I wish I could jam with

[@Pure_KodiakWILD_Power]

That _was_ a nice synchronized solo.

[@Ryguypie17]

That bass solo starting at 4:47 is nothing short of incredible! That's the cleanest, most creative bass solo I've seen in a long time!

[@FLmetalhead]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/oqibl3WIlL2chtU This is a great live Jeff Beck song with a young female bass player who has a killer solo.

[@kane6529]

It’s inspired by me! I telepathically put those ideas in his head! Your welcome 😅

[@Krondelo]

It was really beautiful.

[@sobasage1958]

Simon is the GOAT

[@Sokolemon]

I think this one was more melodic kzbin.info/www/bejne/qpDHZKKpm9GNirM, but Simon has the Midas touch for sure and this one was gold as well. He is most definitely the GOAT imo.

[@saudhassan3909]

The toms at 3:18 - 3:22 to complement the outro of that minute-long guitar fill is one of the best touches in this entire song, and Plini knows it looking back at Chris Allison.

[@Feverdream7777]

It's one of my favorite songs ever written in existence. It's up there with Vai's Answers & the Riddle, and Fever Dream It's just a glorious thing.

[@natanaelfreitas2626]

Chris' drums in this song are too killer, And plini always delivering the best of the song to us, greetings from Brazil.

[@supersanjayan4638]

Hats off to Chris Allison for pulling that off live (the whole crew really) . That couldn't have been an easy feat to master...

[@alexanderpelletier971]

Dude is an absolutely amazing drummer

[@addictedtosliding]

The most beautiful thing about this isn't the song (which is sensational) or the playing (which is otherworldly), but the love you can see Plini, Jake and Simon have for each other. Brothers in art.

[@samsambanana]

Casually forgetting the MVP, Chris, on the drums. T_T

[@mattyhjames]

Don't forget Chris smashing away on the kit in the background

[@addictedtosliding]

@@samsambanana ja sorry I didn’t know his name but shoutout to the drummer too!

[@MusicAsMedicine88]

well said ! saw them last summer, nothing short of PHENOMENAL !!!!

[@BehindTheKitOfficial]

Damn! Good to see Chris is still rocking the stache! Simon is looking great! No wonder Dave hasn’t kept up his release schedule haha. Amazing song!

[@MRitterH]

Plini is becoming my new favourite band. Your sound and style, and incredible guitar playing is on another level.

[@SlashRfnR]

this tune has a feel good effect on me. Thanks Plini, your composition style is unique.

[@Siggy152]

My father passed away last month at the way too young age of 66. Frank Zappa and the guitarists of the 70s were his idols. I regret never introducing him to the new generation of artists that shape how we view this amazing instrument today. Plini certainly is among them and i am sure he would have enjoyed this beautiful music and how his favourite instrument - which he played and studied for so many years - evolved. He didn't hear Plini's music once and now sadly never will. But nevertheless, every time i do i will think of him and cherish that i am alive and able to enjoy music at its best.

[@marks7192]

Oooo....is Chris on set? Nice To have Chris and Troy locked and loaded for the band is golden

[@m.martini1036]

Love that song 🤗 Could listen to that outro part in an endless loop 🎶🎶😲

[@martyrguardian]

i literally cannot stop listening to this masterpiece. Plini is the ultimate amalgam of everything i love in melodic, technical, progressive heavy metal and somehow exceeds its own vision. a new journey every time. always fresh. forever beautiful. time for another playthrough.

[@donclark7790]

Yep! I keep returning to this track - my find of 2023!

[@ArronSealmoyGuitar]

*The groove...* Will help people battling anxiety and uncertainty

[@higler.]

The addition of a live keyboard player is A+

[@P1OOD]

I listen to this song every day and that 15:8 is something I can't get enough of. It's no less amazing live! See you in Millvale!

[@WhizMitchell]

Every once in a while, there would be a guitarist that would captivate my utmost attention. For a time it was Guthrie Govan…then, it was Tosin Abasi. PLINI, in my opinion, is the “Allan Holdsworth” of his generation. Similar to Allan, Plini has an impeccable sense of melody, which is what I look for in a guitarist of his caliber. His solos are very melodic, yet very complex at times and are executed extremely well. I’ll even go as far as to say, that if Alan Holdsworth were still alive, he could give Allan run for his money. He and his band here are on fire. Brilliant musicians and this song is incredible.

[@RevontuletMusic]

I'm gonna leave here two names that changed how I view guitar the same way Plini, Guthrie and Tosin did for me. Wes Thrailkill and Steffen Schackinger, give them a listen

[@felixalfian2628]

i need harp

[@notyerbrother2228]

I guess Marbles wouldn't have been as majestic of a song title. Great playing!

[@wpecor99]

Is he rocking a new signature? Lipstick bridge pickup and the tempered frets are definitely some upgrades to the arsenal.

[@atquinn1975]

Looks like a customized version of the Strandberg Jazz. No f hole and just a vol control, trem bridge and "wavy" frets and lipstick neck pickup you noted.

[@wpecor99]

@@atquinn1975 I was thinking that, but if you look closely at the Strandberg logo near the upper frets, you see what looks like the start of his signature under it. Plus, the Plini crescent moon on the fretboard.

[@atquinn1975]

@@wpecor99 Oh yeah, it's definitely a signature, it just looks like it's base on the Jazz model is what I meant. Looks and sounds awesome for sure.

[@danielschafhautle1691]

For now it's a one off.

[@vaportrails7943]

Any constructive criticism or complaint about this level of excellence should be taken with that acknowledgement in mind. But I have to be honest, of late Plini has started to lose me a bit. His newer stuff is lacking in his actual lead guitar playing, to the point that it seems like it must be a conscious decision. Or as if he’s lost interest in really pushing himself on the instrument. Simon’s bass solo and Chris’s drumming are more impressive than anything Plini does on this song, and most of the others on the album are similar. Plini’s earlier stuff has some of the most incredible guitar solos I’ve ever heard, and it seems like he’s actually decided not to do that anymore. There’s also been a stylistic drift away from rock and towards soft jazz. The combination is something that just doesn’t draw me back for repeat listens the way his older stuff does. I still listen to Selenium Forest all the time, for example. Pan is the only track on this album that gets into that rotation for me. Otherwise, I guess it would be nice to hear in the background at the grocery store or something. This is all a matter of taste, of course. Obviously some people really like this song. And I don’t hate it by any means. It just doesn’t have the “wow factor” of his previous stuff. I don’t feel the urge to go back and listen to it a lot. You can tell when somebody is really pushing themselves and reaching for greatness, and when they’re just kind of phoning it in. The music on Impulse Voices is very good, and could have been his best album, but Plini’s guitar playing just wasn’t there. Like he’s either become ashamed of being seen as a “shredder”, or he’s become bored with it. But that was kind of the whole point of what he was…without that it’s just kind of background music. He has done stuff on guitar that is truly mind-blowing. And unique. But less and less these days. It’s hard to believe Handmade Cities was 6 years ago, but I guess maybe that was his peak. At most, he just kind of noodles these days, most of the time. With less intensity. And less distortion. Like I said, it seems like it has to be an intentional decision. It’s just not as interesting to me I guess. It’s pleasant music, with some metal-ish rhythm chugs once in a while, and some very tasteful, restrained guitar playing. It would be good for a nap if it wasn’t loud at times. The end of this song would have been prime for the kind of thing he used to do, but it just isn’t there. “Pastures” from Handmade Cities is a good comparison. Similarly mellow and atmospheric, but then he plays the most insane solo you’ll ever hear. That’s what’s missing. This track has some stuff that’s very complicated and difficult to play as a band, but Plini’s guitar is the equivalent of the lead vocal in a song that has one. Take your favorite songs and remove the lead vocal. That’s what this feels like to me. On his previous stuff he played a lead melody on guitar all the way through, and then crazy solos. All of that is mostly missing on this album. Come on man, we’re here to hear you play. ✌️

[@martinhanisch2545]

Plini is becoming more and more the Pat Metheny of Heavy Metal, loving it 🙂

[@scott4097]

Yeah. I heard some Metheny touches in here and was skimming the comments to see if I was the only one. This is glorious stuff. (And there's that funny self-reference at 5:48 - he loves sneaking that in.)

[@spellingchampeon]

one of the most epic songs ever written and that will ever be written.

[@treaceeames4697]

This cant be considered a song , its more like a jam

[@Laguna69]

@@treaceeames4697 It's a song, dude.

[@namanmadan4219]

Abbe lund @Treace

[@okplld]

1:36 has kind of game of thrones vibe.

[@aquaescapeartist4915]

When I saw Plini last year I was in awe. And that keyboard player did a solo during the concert that was incredibly beautiful.

[@alinktogod9710]

I've been listening to this song over and over all week! Thanks for the live video guys!

[@hoppe111]

Always a very nice Song and I can't hear enough. 👍

[@lorenzogalli7670]

….emozione pura , grazie Plini per la tua musica ! ……18 Marzo a Milano , ci sarò !!!

[@zierim8537]

Favourite song ngl 🔥🔥🔥

[@Ou8y2k2]

Damn. How can an 8 minute song end so soon. Excellent, brahs.

[@pawesowik3138]

I came to youtube to search for something specific, saw the thumbnail, clicked instantly and now 7 minutes later I can't remember what it was. Thanks Plini. Oh, btw. epic perormance.

[@flake8382]

Brilliant choice with the just intonation guitar. This mix just comes alive together. Especially love your harmony work. *chefs kiss*

[@rogeriomacieljr.8849]

I'll make a rhyme... I don't know why, but this song made me cry Not for a sadness, but for fell happiness Incredible and very beautiful song! Thanks Plini! 👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽

[@MikePane]

My favorite Track of this wonderful album😍😍😍

[@xavierkiefer4424]

comment qu'c'est bon.... vivement le 19 Mars....

[@SkylaneMusic]

You mean marbles?

[@DestinMcWhorter]

Some of the best art being created today without any doubt.

[@emptycloud2774]

I can't believe I was fortunate enough to be at this gig. There were so many times I couldn't believe what was happening. One of the best gigs I've ever been to. Until next time, Plini.

[@robdubent]

Glass Bead Game? Pente or Hans Neimann? Asking for a friend 😊 Amazing musicianship guys!

[@MrKent84]

Hand Neimann without question 😂

[@davedrums]

What an absolute masterpiece of a song. Fantastic musicianship all-round!

[@k6lsn]

Yes kids, this is talent. Sick!!! ✌️

[@thehumandrive]

Plini makes me feel…things 😢

[@TonyKorologos]

Awesome musicianship. Just a thought and I'm no lighting engineer, but maybe less backlighting. Can't see the band much, just their shadows... :-)

[@AndreasSeidler-f3r]

What a gift to soul and music. Thank u all.

[@MatkatMusic]

Anyone know what time signature(s) this is in?

[@rubendrakkar]

this is just an spectacular performance

[@seferdillan]

Já dou like antes de assistir inteiro.

[@adesumarianto]

Journey 🔥

[@miinpajamas6680]

Yeees finally the best plini song live

[@biswas01]

My thoughts - Killer tempo(s), was that a velvet shirt?, Simon dropping some Mark Egan acid on bass, and holy crap we need this single! Stunning!!!

[@jamesstidham8327]

These are true musicians of merit.Nothing but respect from me.

[@elmerditodevideo]

musique de gratteux de concours pour gratteux de concours chevelus tatoués venus en trottinette...."wwwouuaaaiii ça sssooooonnne trop top!! le passage en mineur mélodique agrémenté d'un run en diminué est trop bien placé!!"... désolé mais au bout 2min j'en peux plus de la disto/delay/tapping/exploit technique et tout le tintouin... au bout d'un moment assez court ça me soûle :-)))

[@markslater6220]

prog is sexy after all

[@engiuser]

Danny Carey and Plini, please make project together! It will be awesome to hear cool asymmetric music with both of your talents!

[@slidewarrior8838]

So for me this is the best groove band 2024, and stands out from the eternal other stuff, I love you...🙏🙏🙏❤❤❤

[@ramiroantoniopohle5213]

Just as steve said years ago, the future of great guitar is in good hands thanks to guys like plini. You're goddamn right 😎 But come to cordoba, argentina tho

[@AdamElteto]

A true temperament guitar with tremolo... where do we mortals get one of THOSE Strandbergs?

[@raphafontenele]

Melhor Guitarrista da atualidade nesse gênero. Entrega muito mais que boa música, entrega sentimento no que faz.

[@gabrielfreitas7115]

vdd

[@armando7682]

Reminded me of how epic the concert in Copenhagen was! Dave Mackay is such a perfect addition to the band 😍

[@michaelhansen8959]

Plini on true temperament 😎

[@8varium5]

Can’t wait to see your show again in Charlotte. Love this song!

[@soysantim]

The perfect combination of nerd and beautiful music.

[@sidexplores]

Wow, what a recommendation! The AI engine is working

[@georgerudinsky489]

We all can write millions of comments, the best comment is ❤❤❤ just genius harmonics and perfect composition.

[@incryptowetrust1166]

Wow the guitar sounds majestic

[@jackvai2681]

HERMAN HESSE

[@Gadriik]

Didn't know Olivier Giroud could play bass :o

[@non-continuum]

Am I the only one to hear a lot of Meshuggah from their 1994 NONE EP here?

[@tomanderson6140]

That must be the game where the bead goes in and out of the booty hole. I'm not getting that from the music, but maybe that's just me.

[@Tameshikiwi]

It's not Julian lage but it's got more power and fascination

[@schuug]

This show in may is gonna be the best show i've ever been to, hands down.

[@alexanderpelletier971]

Just an absolutely beautiful masterpiece of music!

[@mattyhjames]

Chris is in a different dimension. Time doesn't guide him, he guides time

[@javierherrera8782]

Plini Is as good as listening to Chopin or Bach. For real❤

[@TonVerkleijT3]

Is the lightning playing parts or are his frets layout different on any position?

[@mitchcoull6290]

ABSOLUTELY FUCKING OUTSTANDING

[@jackvai2681]

MASTER LUDI

[@nisargachhetri6841]

Nothing like listening to a great song for the first time.

[@FrakzunOtt]

еБФТЬ КРАСАВЧЕГ! Plini МОГУЧИЙ!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@calebwilder88]

why do I feel like his tones are of this universe

[@scenesfromamemory118]

That session starting at @2:24 reminds something that also has “Glass” in the title 😅

[@DaleFoleyGuitar]

Legendary.

[@marcsee4072]

Very PMB but hold its own. Plini is a genius

[@namenerbb4558]

Going to see them in 4 days I cannot wait

[@donclark7790]

So good to see this live in Islington, London last night. Superb show. Took a muso friend who was completely blown away by the complexity and musicality whilst the performance appeared to be effortless.

[@tymanngruter1808]

The person that the fretjob has done was drunk! 🤣

[@metalneko723]

Good recording & editing🔥🤘😎🤘🔥

[@SouthpawSatch]

I wish there was a live blu ray available of this full gig

[@morris_davista]

Add Keys & Sequencer is very nice 🤘🏾🇮🇩

[@manfredmarth5825]

hermann hesse :))) this is kastaliens musical master

[@thisisqualia]

That bass solo! Good job, Simon.

[@dvs6121]

So glad to see the keyboardist on stage. Playing against a laptop doesn't seem right when you have Plini level talent and the crowd paid for admission. The kb wall of sound and harmonic elements are a key part of the Plini sound. (Yes DJs use laptops but that's their "instrument")

[@sike2805]

Awesome....beyond words!!

[@RodiArto]

Who is playing in back there?

[@georgerudinsky489]

Plini, wow, what a Musician. Harmonics and craft. He should play in auditoriums to really appreciate the complexity of his perfect soundings. Neural made it easy for people to at least try. Looking forward to his new music.

[@samuelemolinelli3994]

Beatuful soundtrack,good job,so good very nice 🇮🇹🇮🇹👍🎸🎼🎵🎶🎶🎹🎸🎸🎸🎸