In the Room with John Petrucci, Tosin Abasi, and Devin Townsend

[@jacobsmith1877]

Petrucci practices speed drills, Tosin practices fast arpeggios and things he messed up, and Dev drinks coffee while spacing out to train videos

[@maryg.7790]

🤣

[@kennyfoster655]

Right? SUCH different approaches with SUCH different results, love them ALL

[@wheresallthezombies]

For me, Dev is the only one makes music I can actually listen to. Lol. Not saying there’s anything wrong with the other two but where they put their focus is very clear.

[@kickingxri]

@@wheresallthezombiesyeah fair enough it is up to taste I like all of them

[@diegoleiva7242]

I can't stand Dream Theater or AAL but my hat's off to all three. Anyone making a living out of Prog Metal deserves some respect, that is one tough road as a musician for sure.

[@zynosgd9982]

TLDW: John: "so there's modes, tones, composition, gear... all of those things are important [...]" Tosin: "maths, bro" Devin: *stares into the void* "it's about the intent"

[@ryukan250]

The all rounder, the technician and the philosopher walk into a bar

[@stcmattb]

Haha so good 🤣

[@xthexadvantagex]

I love to think that Devin somehow inspired the other two with his philosophical thoughts and starts whole new cool albums or songs. How does John petrified make his guitar sound like a foggy meadow in rural Canada.

[@chassegardee7694]

Tosin :"Maths, like... Maths, like, bro, like..."

[@diode86]

@@chassegardee7694 that 🤣🤣🤣

[@FurorAeternumXBL]

“Hey, Devin, you wanna just play something?” *proceeds to tear open the heavens and rain bliss upon the world*

[@guitarist_derek]

I had chills the whole time. Unreal.

[@chrisrichardson4693]

Haha can't wait to hear it 😂😂

[@floydtron]

1:17:06 You're welcome :)

[@jh5131]

​@@floydtron👍👍👍

[@rjv-rw2ef]

True i literally had an out of body experience and got teleported to Italy in winter.

[@CaptainWastrel]

Tosin all in black, Petrucci all in black, Rick rocking his jeans and Devin looking like he just arrived from Hawaii. Damn I love this man hahahahaha

[@GaudyGabriev]

Devin's a fucking treasure is what he is.

[@RuggedHeretic]

I love his classic aloha shirts.

[@haseebejazmusic9125]

They all have black shirts, tho

[@Kalebsweeten]

Devin is one of the most critically underrated musicians in metal. He’s your favorite metal guy’s favorite metal guy.

[@tophr2710]

I think most of the upper echelon tech players are underrated in the main stream. Like, honestly the only people I know who are aware of these guys are guitarists.

[@OrganicaShadows]

And he reveals things that really can put you on the right track instead of confusing you with his ego giving you only technical information! Basically he's telling his own juice!! He's the only one! The more quite people are the deeper they are also! He's on the climax

[@joshmastiff1128]

​@@OrganicaShadowsI disagree with the quiet thing. There is this aura about such people but it puts a lot of quiet people under pressure for the expectation of being deep. Some just don't have what to say lol. I've met loud inquisitive people who are quiet in social situations but loud near their comfort zones. It just takes a certain type who listen and are truly curious rather than driven to finish first and be the winner

[@OrganicaShadows]

@@joshmastiff1128 👍👍agree

[@donaldrose4848]

Agreed. I wish that Rick could get Buckethead on a Zoom call or something. People mention the great guitarists of our time and are asleep on Buckethead. Its sad.

[@samvelk.3687]

I like how Tosin is sitting there and having the best time of his life.

[@althejazzman]

Only Rick could get three legendary musicians in one place and make it feel like a lazy Sunday afternoon jamming with my mates.

[@AbhishekSharma-zq5qk]

Wish he would've asked devin a bit more about his DTP or SYL days

[@segueoyuri]

legendary musicians are people too

[@sarcastaball]

Three?

[@shellderp]

@@AbhishekSharma-zq5qk I mean he should just have a separate interview with Devin

[@tylerm8145]

​@@sarcastaballbait?

[@DeanLamb]

What a lovely inspiring group of men. ❤️

[@sappyjoker]

That applies to you too! Good to see you here. Love your channel and band ❤️.

[@PleaseForgiveYourself]

Hey it's Dean!

[@HowieStephens]

"4 Levels of AAL" when?? 😬

[@MrBrothus]

A bunch of strapping young lads

[@technicaldeathmetalhead]

​@@MrBrothusI saw what you did there

[@GeminiWoods]

I feel like Dev has just transcended normal guitar player tropes. He's such a weird dude but also incredibly relatable at the same time.

[@kredonystus7768]

It takes a rare breed to want to be musicians, to live the insane life of a musician, to want to be full time entertainers. Devin as a musician isn't the endpoint, it's the vehicle that lets him live the life the rest of us want.

[@Trahzy]

Townsend is Friedman's bald lost brother, I swear.

[@zachpayne7388]

Vai calls him the modern Zappa. I really think he's right.

[@bonaqua123]

Devin is a legit genius. Amazingly talented in various dimensions. Sick guitarist, unbelievable vocalist, good songwriter, producer, self-advertising and promotion side of the music business, understands the technology and equipment itself and most importantly...down-to-earth chill human being with a likeable character + has the soul of a comedian. It's hard to believe a person with this much talent actually exists.

[@CaptainWastrel]

Devin is that kind of guy you look at and "HOW? How you're so good at all that?!"

[@Imperialmusicfan]

When you think about everything he does and how well he does it, it's pretty incredible... yet, he is as humble as one can be. Absolute legend!

[@MrSphandor]

The lockdown show he did with the drone cams on the outdoor balcony was incredible.

[@alphaenemyplus8376]

Steve Vai said it himself, he's worked with two musical geniuses in his time, one he just didn't know was a genius yet.

[@crazyhorse2995]

Damn straight🤘

[@peytonpepper12]

Devin’s choice to stress the importance of what music means to the person who creates it, in relation to how other people receive it, is MIND BLOWING

[@dragonpundit.6443]

It's also a double edged sword. Some of his stuff is so over the top, gratuitous...grandiose, that it can be a turn off. His last album was in dire need of an adult to edit or contain his zeal. To me it was unlistenable and ridiculous. I love a lot of his stuff but he jumps the shark sometimes on his own devices.

[@pierogi5359]

@@dragonpundit.6443 Good take. I love Devin, but his last album didn't do anything for me unfortunately.

[@johnbernhardtsen3008]

his track Infinite Ocean is my go to chill song/melody!

[@StrawsPulledAtRandom]

@@dragonpundit.6443 I think that the big deal with uncle Dev now is the DreamPeace/Guitar Improvisation project. Music just for simply contemplate. On his own words, Lightwork is framed into a sort of "easy listening" music, but on his own HD full-arrangement way!

[@meyeame8956]

@@dragonpundit.6443 Lightwork was a terrible album but his discography has some incredible work in it. He's definitely different than Tosin and Petrucci in that he would definitely be more "standard/less jazzy" sounding versus the deeply technical compositions of Petrucci and Tosin... that's not necessarily a bad thing. Just different ways to create different music that speaks to the musician and the listener and I think it's important to have all different types of artists for all different flavors of music.

[@chrisfigley]

Petrucci = The Old Guard ... Abasi = The New Guard ... Townsend = The Space Explorer ...and I love them all!

[@MCH106]

Devin barely opens his mouth and when he does he's the most eloquent and articulate guy in the room saying the deepest things.

[@balmain2496]

He’s just a beast

[@donbehatin]

dude has twice the brain cell count of everyone else

[@mvunit3]

And then his guitar tone and style FILLS the room with _somewhere else_ . . . . that was amazing (and watching train videos to subconsciously create music). All 3 guys were floored :D.

[@laurelhardymarx]

Classic introvert energy, love it.

[@zax6666666]

Devi is love

[@jeffboyardee3809]

Awesome video. It’s like John is BODY , Tosin is MIND and Devin is SOUL. Such an iconic trio!

[@meyeame8956]

What an excellent way to put it!

[@discomallard69]

So what you're saying is that Petrucci is the muscle

[@summeronio9751]

Bloody accurate

[@scribeofsolace]

​@@hiei1377accurate

[@RyanLynch2000]

🏆

[@fromthealiens]

i love how many viewers are like "who's this dude Devin? I've heard of him but never listened to him." Now they get to dive into his dozens of insanely diverse albums and get totally blown away :)

[@flyingchicken40]

I got into Dev in 2013, shortly after he released the Retinal Circus. Even then it felt like he had a huge catalogue, I don't know how all these new listeners are gonna start!

[@NoemiMC23]

Of course, Devin is amazing musician. ❤

[@GeminiWoods]

​@flyingchicken40 Think the first song I ever heard from Dev was Devour from SYL on a Metal for the Masses compilation album in 02. Been hooked ever since.

[@dmitriystoyanov933]

SYL was amazing

[@daria6162]

My first thing was "Ziltoid the Omniscient" and i still think that it's another level of beautiful creativity.

[@ClihtYeastwood]

Townsend is a fucking genius. Put his musicianship aside, the way he articulates himself and his perspectives is priceless.

[@kennyfoster655]

Agreed. I could just listen to him talk about stuff without ever picking up a guitar and be entertained. I feel the same way about Guthrie Govan.

[@tomskimcdouglegaming806]

Pity he hasn't written a good song in over 20 years.

[@vulkanofnocturne]

@@tomskimcdouglegaming806 Rude, but I'm curious. What is his good song from twenty years ago?

[@tomskimcdouglegaming806]

@@vulkanofnocturne All of City, Physicist and Terria. In fact Terria is his magnum opus. It's downhill from there.

[@GonzoIV]

@@tomskimcdouglegaming806 na

[@tyjutsu96]

This is like "It Might Get Loud" for Millennials. Ten years ago you would have had to pay $60 for this DVD, and I would've paid.

[@xLammendam]

How fortunate we are to view this for free now. Also, I would have paid as well, lol.

[@bradmuehlenbein]

What a great comparison

[@Chillnel]

Haha I would have stopped, looked at the back, thought well this must be cool- then brought string and put money down in a pedal laybuy haha so glad these are free but at the same time we are destroying our own potential revenue. I've accepted a long time ago as much as I love playing live or writting and recording - it's the drive these guys have that makes them successful. I'm just not driven enough to actually do it enough.

[@SirBelmerD]

Can we appreciate that Rick, despite being incredibly well versed in both the production process, music theory, and with plenty of insight in the discussion regarding Digital vs Analogue, gave these three titans the time and space allowing them to go back and forth on their own without interruptions? Incredible professionalism that I've not seen in other journalistic forms and interviewers. Much respect and love, Rick. A superb and insightful video as usual!

[@powermetallistic2293]

Yes! Outstanding comment from your part, I didnt even think of this.

[@neilsaunders1384]

That’s what I love about Rick- he asks the questions we all wanna ask - and sits back and listens- coz he’s a fan like we all are

[@eddiechase9691]

Rick gets that interviews are about the answers, not the questions.

[@Gwyn1stborn]

This is how Rick interviews. Just let them talk

[@zayansimon8107]

That's the difference between a journalists interview and an actual experienced person interviewing them.

[@nathanhuffines]

I feel like devins mindset is miles beyond anyone else. He seems so in tune with another realm of music that only he knows about, while agreeing with everyone else as if he mastered their point while in embryo form.

[@tylerjacobson8012]

Devin is an artist whose art just so happens to be music. Devin is just in tune with himself.

[@RohannvanRensburg]

What's the end result, though? All three of them have created unique, innovative music with different intents and styles, and all of them affect people differently. Devin has been on a long journey of trying to understand himself through mental illness, drug abuse, etc. His music -- as far as I understand, and feel when listening to it -- is primarily cathartic. It's like he has to "get it out", and then move on. I think music is important for him, but simply because it's the art that he most happens to jive with. I'm sure the others have elements of it -- musicians don't just "do" music, they need it -- but seem to approach music differently. No one is more valid than the other.

[@jackshittle]

Agreed. he is an uber smart & talented android from another dimension/world that had a 200 million years head start before the earth. Totally on a different level.

[@jb1934]

I had never heard of devin townsend, but after watching a few of his videos the songs unexpectedly reminded me of the tragically hip - with the country-blues guitars upgraded to a heavier sound. Gord Downie likewise had that unique mindset that somewhat transcended the mere business of making music professionally.

[@joshmastiff1128]

​@@RohannvanRensburgI seem to agree. Look at Tosin, for instance. He looks specifically for sounds which are unexplored and approches music like a fun frontier to play with. Sure, he needs it, yes. But rather than sole expression of emotions, his music can sometimes be for the sake of music, serving no superior purpose than for its mere existence of being different. Is that in any way a redundant view? No. I get Devin, my philosophy and purpose for doing music is akin to his, self expression which needs to be let out. And I move on. It's my preferred art form. I don't care about new sounds, it just so happens that nuance and unexplored timbres make me express what I feel better. Better expression, that's what I strive for. And I believe that's what Devin strives for too, as you pointed out. He's not some higher being, he's just expressive, more so than the other two gentlemen, whose goals in music although collide with his at instances, widely vary. With that said, Petrucci is my favorite guy of the bunch lol

[@kenpeters3775]

Devon Townsend is one of the most articulate and thoughtful communicators I have ever heard.

[@KLAP_TV]

Truly

[@codyjackson472]

He is awesome

[@ctoh922]

Listened to his music since 20 yrs but never heard him speak before. Interesting man (but I would have guessed that from hearing his music).

[@bronsonnishikida5381]

I really liked Devin's responses in the conversation. I feel he's definitely the most centered, open minded, progressive dude. Every time the conversation was steering into the "back in my day" Devin always gently brought awareness to how the newer generation is adapting to their environment, needs, and familiarity. I think that shows an openness and a respect for the newer kids coming into this field.

[@jeromeclemente3672]

Devin Townsend is just the mad man of Progressive Metal. An insanely good songwriter too. Epicloud is my favorite.

[@joshferguson9703]

He kinda reminds of Doc from back to the future if that makes any sense

[@austinfreeman7871]

He is a mix of Doc Brown, Willie Wonka and Gandalf.

[@bartondean4260]

John is hands down the best player of the last 30 years. He makes Nuno look like an amateur.

[@MoreMeRecording]

@@bartondean4260 JP is great, but that comment about Nuno is just ridiculous...

[@ch0ch1s]

City is the best metal album written. 20 years later is still fresh as a lettuce.

[@darrelladams4886]

Love devin Townsend. Guy is so talented. Rick needs to have an interview with him alone

[@wyldeman7]

Seconded.

[@thatguyinaband6341]

for real him and the most under rated artist of our time IMO Gran Hechicero

[@SpartanLaserCanon]

He has some of the most interesting views on music, plus it would be cool if he showed us a mixing session with Rick.

[@DSoverPSP]

In the desert. At night. No cops!

[@EB-bl6cc]

Devin's one of if not the most underrated guy in music, should be absolutely huge but he's only somewhat known in metal and in Canada

[@jeffreyfrazier5907]

Listening to John and Tosin (both immaculate players) I feel as if I'm listening to guys that I would normally have a musical conversation with. But when Devin speaks I feel as though I'm listening to a Sage. Like I am a small child sitting at the feet of my grandfather and hanging on every word that he says. He has been, is and will always be on a different level.

[@ryanriggs9963]

I swear that man is on a different plain of existence.

[@soundssimple1]

Nailed it. Well said.

[@kostaVHjovanovic]

Gay

[@RobertJones-rd5wl]

Devin can play guitar but his singing…. Another level! Mixing operatic singing with heavy growl- he’s like Freddie Mercury of heavy metal.

[@corail53]

Devin is the goat, that said the ladies in metal have been killing the operatic/heavy vocal game for a long time as well. Metal vocalists have some crazy ranges.

[@wyldeman7]

​@@corail53tati is incredible. Devin is the 🐐

[@8Seven65]

Saw them in Vancouver the other day. He's incredible.

[@oliverefremov6633]

That's an interesting observation. I wouldn't say the same thing myself, but I get the emotion of comparing one great to another.

[@8KilgoreTrout4]

@@8Seven65 I watched some footage from this set! 🤟🤟 It’s been a great year for shows in Canada!

[@phillipgriego4675]

What's cool about this is the diversity of vibes from these three guys. JP is like the quintessential technique/guitar aficionado. TA is the creative wizard breaking new ground and forging unique and exciting passages. And DT completely encapsulates the concept of "feel"; so melodic and euphoric. What a phenomenal combination of talent.

[@johnrobert385mm]

Very well depicted , all three are beyond spectacular musician .

[@thatguyinaband6341]

yeah DT is more a composer vocalist like Gran Hechicero

[@jetydosa1]

and RICK!

[@Eelbackwards]

While there is so very much any of us could say, you summed that up beautifully!

[@davewebster5120]

The best part of this session is Tosin's reaction to Devin's solo. As soon as he opens it up his fingers, his eyes don't move. His entire being is listening and boy, I was too.

[@digibirder]

If I want to learn how to play guitar, I'll talk to John. If I want to break boundaries and bring the instrument to a new level, I'll talk to Tosin. If I want to know why I should do any of that, I'll talk to Devin. Thank you so much Rick for get this together and running it so perfectly.

[@dezfowler]

Brilliant summary, this. Nailed it. 👏👏👏 Love all the work these guys are doing.

[@fantasyh]

Whenever John Petrucci smiles, it’s your being visited by metal Santa. Awesome conversation, I’d listen to Devin talk about what kind of peanut butter he prefers, and it’d still be probably as enlightening as anything this man says

[@r4yr0d]

Dude, metal santa will def be a tshirt idea for the season. Petrush is a chosen character

[@LooneyTune666]

I love how Tosin looks like he's about to do a poetry reading but then melts your face with a guitar.

[@schwarg]

Looks more like he belongs in the Matrix

[@ChadTheGirlDad]

Devin has such a presence here. He brings a suspense to the interview. I’m constantly waiting to know what he’s gonna say and do. It’s strange. I normally wouldn’t care that deeply about interviews like this and I’m not the biggest Devin fan but it’s interesting to notice how great his presence is.

[@essier5]

Absolutely. Anytime the others are talking about a topic, you're waiting to hear what he has to say about it because you know he will have a completely different perspective and approach to whatever they are discussing.

[@jeremyzenkar8996]

Nowhere near enough Devin in this interview in my opinion.

[@fafetico]

Right? Petrucci goes like "you know, it's like... Like... When you are a kid and you hear this... Like... Weird stuff" and then Tosin goes "yes. It has something to do with finding your own way to interpret it" and then Devin just goes "the musical expression of emotion evokes a quintessential sensation, capturing the essence of what it means to be a guitar player discovering oneself through music"

[@pakukuski]

@@fafeticoExactly! Devin can easily make sentences that make those guys go “yea, that’s the thing I was thinking”. I always admire people that can do that, so captivating…

[@Serfo_]

​​​​​@@jeremyzenkar8996 I don't like to see it as a competition (this guy is better than that one, or smarter) just simply, everyone brings something different to the table and that's interesting in itself. I just think Devin in general is more thoughtful and more in line with the emotions and the "abstract" part of music, compared with John and Tosin, which sound more practical, and that's not a bad thing perse, actually, I love how John always seems to be lowering the level of complexity of the subjects and ideas they're discussing, and bringing some concrete experience, almost like a teacher does.

[@Demulon]

Devin! The only guy who can do everything from death metal to meditation music, haunting country to electronica. Devin for Prime Minister!

[@hexaldecima6839]

I read the last line as, "Devin, the Prime Master." Reminded me of Yuri's Revenge, hahaha.

[@thatguyinaband6341]

you're right! AscendTranscend is the only other artist I have heard that is so wildly varied!

[@atthecore4560]

He's hardly the 'only' guy.

[@gmorkins6006]

So happy for Devin to be a part of this.

[@DerekByrne1984]

Yes!!! Been waiting for this one. Devin Townsend is the absolute man. Went to see him in Belfast a few years ago. Unbelievable!!! Edit: The love for Devin in these comments is off the charts. I hope he sees the comments and get a taste for the high regard us mere mortals hold for the god of metal

[@8KilgoreTrout4]

This is one of the best performers I have ever seen, the guy just took control of the whole room

[@sean_on_bass]

yep, i hope people realize the level of legend he is. he's made some of my favorite hard rock music everrrr

[@timchambers55]

Really hoping he comes back to Belfast soon!

[@nickridesbikes]

That Belfast show was my last concert pre-covid. I couldn't have asked for a better one.

[@natehaviland3244]

This was the best show I've seen in a very long time. All of it. Was not a bad moment. Animals still messes with my sense of time especially live.

[@ryukan250]

I know Rick has Devin here in a guitar capacity but he could spend hours deconstructing his elite level vocals across so many bands

[@alphaenemyplus8376]

or production.... or songwriting...

[@HoratioFitzbastard]

Elite everything. The man is a creative genius.

[@thatguyinaband6341]

yeah he's a Vocalist who composes IMO like Gran Hechicero not a guitarist like the other 2

[@Michaeltucker999]

i kinda want to hear devin sing/write an album with Dream Theatre....

[@alphaenemyplus8376]

@@Michaeltucker999 it's very unlikely. Devin doesn't do well with collaboration. He likes a lot of creative control.

[@MuadDib1402]

It's wonderful to see so much love in the comments for Devin.

[@vwharman]

I love that the comments are all about how rad Devin is. The guy is an absolute genius and makes music that is in his head. He is amazing, love you Dev!

[@existential_]

I hope you can have Devin Townsend in for more time and like a comment mentioned, talk about his singing as not many people (let alone those in metal) have a voice such as him. He truly is a gift to not only metal but music in general with unique approaches and how he never stays in one style.

[@cmase1991]

I would LOVE to hear him talk more about his singing approach. He always kind of laughs it off but he is legit one of the best rock/metal singers ever

[@ashemedai]

@@cmase1991 If you want to know more about that, look at the Charismatic Voice channel's tea time interview with Devin. He goes quite in-depth there.

[@OutOfPlace0]

Easily one of the best singers in metal

[@devymetal4713]

@@cmase1991 He has an interview with The Charismatic Voice that goes into it a lot. Fantastic interview. Check it out.

[@dbeast03]

Yeah, dude is an expert guitarist, vocalist, *and* producer, those don't come around often. His versatility in every single thing he's touched is worth some extra time. For Rick in particular, Devin's production abilities and composition style are probably worth an interview all their own.

[@TristanLangdon]

You really need to get Devin on by himself Rick! The man is a musical genius!

[@creamcheese65]

Geez...John and Tosin did some cool fun playing, but Devin had me crying in like four seconds😢. Dude is freekin incredible. I hope Rick does a 90min show with him alone.🤞

[@chrisphoenixmusician]

Yep, had totally the same the experience! Devin's playing really resonates with me. Great to see these guys chat and play their unique styles. Another great video Rick, thank you.

[@willistg]

agreed. would love to see what ricks take on devins creative process is. it would definitely be a fun conversation.

[@bbowman105]

John had the balls and chunk, Tosin has the maths, Devin fills the freaking room!!!!

[@AquaticBaboon]

Literal goosebumps! Amazing

[@educostanzo]

Yes, I'd love to see Rick doing an extensive chat with him, words of wisdom

[@tomkruze1304]

As someone who barely even listens to Devin, he is absolutely amazing as a human. I rarely meet people like him, he seeks to understand reality and actually embraces it rather than trying to dominate or hide from it.

[@downeybill]

yes, perfectly put.

[@awakencph1489]

Beautifully said and so right🙏

[@rosalina9768]

Absolutely! Go listen to him asap. That idea definitely comes through in his music

[@devymetal4713]

Check out his interview with The Charismatic Voice if you haven't already. It's incredible.

[@theshapeexists]

Devin is such a badass. One of the most insane vocalists the world has ever seen. And he can shred some INSANE rhythm guitar while singing. He's absolutely incredible

[@SIR0777]

Man I laughed so hard at the faces of the three of them when Devin explained his practice routine😂😂😂😂😂

[@SylasG]

timestamp?

[@HugoRBMarques]

​@@SylasG 1:27:57

[@raulsuazo5015]

The way Devin express himself denoted he is a wise man. Very aware of every minute detail. That guy is in another intelligence level

[@Vekurus]

So much so, he looked uncomfortable at times and when he speaks, all you get is nodding heads ad "wow".

[@dylanembry8492]

I love seeing everyone’s comments about Devin, and I love that there are a ton of people who are about to go discover his music. Dudes musical vision is legendary.

[@simasuma]

Love all three, but Devin is so unique in everything he does. It really sets him apart. Could definitely do a solo interview with him.

[@gavinbuck8130]

People have been asking for Devin in comments here for years, and here he is, fantastic stuff, personally a 2-3 hour chat with just Devin and Rick would've been perfect. :)

[@Imperialmusicfan]

Couldn't agree more! I hope it happens because there is so much Devin has to offer...this video didn't even scratch the surface!

[@seanwinkel8890]

Seems like a totally fascinating guy. I'd never heard of him before this.

[@ehcmier]

Well, after listening to Devin share his process, development, and personal evolution over the years, I'm curious about how a full interview would go. At least Devin can now decide if that's what he wants, if there's a comfortable middle ground to work from, since notation and scales aren't a foundation to his learning, and being in choir is where he got most of his formal anything.

[@mariozamora257]

@@seanwinkel8890he’s incredibly talented and he’s got over 30 albums under his belt from ambiance to the heaviest(strapping young lad) and everything in between.

[@scottoneill774]

I could listen to Devin talk about anything for hours.

[@Augenatic]

devin: it´s all about how these vibrations interact, so the consonance and the dissonance is much more triangles and circles than it is numbers and letters in a sense, right rick: I wanna talk about gear ahahahah

[@whiteglovepc]

😂

[@bluestringmusic]

🤣 that part did throw me off. I was just getting into the zone listening to Devin describe his connection to music before Beato crashed the party.

[@colinschulte9699]

33:42

[@jllamb88]

Petrucci and Abasi are the guitar gods, but honestly Devin played the most flawlessly on the spot! Is this dude show-ready at all times or what?

[@guy_autordie]

Devin is on Devin level. Nobody can't compare him to anyone else. And as he said, he started because he wanted to be with people. So, yes, he is always ready.

[@googelle7555]

At 30:00 when Devin described echo as "a way to interact with the past," my heart skipped a beat. I have never heard a more interesting way to describe delay. 🤯💕

[@WarhawkBeyond2040]

So much guitar royalty in one room, I'm surprised that the entire universe didn't completely implode with that level of talent. Rick you have really outdone yourself getting these three guitar heavyweights together. What a fantastic interview 👏

[@toddh4491]

Agreed, I expected a black hole to form

[@Sublight77]

Im honored to have been the 100th thumbs up to this comment 😂

[@Marta1Buck]

you know why it didn't happen? because we miss 1 more person, Guthrie is missing.

[@canman87]

It helps that they're all touring together right now, but yeah 😅

[@dangernoodle4305]

​@michaelpal7641 wrong on so many levels but go on.

[@MindsEyeMuseGuitar]

Devin really nailed it with the difference between exploring music from a position of emotional depth vs. people learning theory and technique purely as a mental exercise. There are so many young players these days with astounding technique, but who don't make you FEEL anything.

[@tingkagol]

The golden nugget in this interview is Devin revealing how he writes music.

[@Patrick-857]

His process constantly changes. That's what makes him unique. Right now it's all about the convenience of that tiny headless guitar. It seems that thing has unlocked a new creative process for him.

[@jsbach1434]

Love seeing the love for Devin here. Been a dream to see him with Rick and he’s been my favorite musician since discovering him in 2007. Amazing guy and performer. Thank you, Rick!

[@PianoDentist]

I love the way Devin experiments on his own perception of reality, to create music that he wouldn't otherwise have come up with. He's basically a musical scientist using emotion and the world around him as triggers for inspiration. That's what makes a true artist imo.

[@juanmitri5334]

How humble can John Petrucci be? At the top of the guitar world, and plays for fun with friends. Epic.

[@michaelhaack3298]

I didn’t know who Devlin Townsend is, until this great interview. I always admired John Petrucci. Tosin is fantastic. They both are great guitarists. I checked out Devins stuff and I have to say he is a very accomplished ARTIST. His music is so smart and unpredictable. Love his way to sing too. From death metal to a crystal clear tenor in an instant. It’s otherworldly

[@danielbeaird6264]

He was an up comer for metal back in the 90s, his band was strapping young lad... I think his best with them was a song called "antiproduct"," where it goes from typical metal, then the breakdown is like... jazz flute? But their most popular song would probably be "love?" They were mostly known for his vocals, but they also had one of the greatest drummers in the world for speed and timing, Gene holgan (I think that's how it's spelled anyway)

[@frostythesasquatch]

I think if you really want to understand Devin Townsend, you have to listen to his album “Punky Brüster: Cooked on Phonics”. It’s the first record he ever made where he put his first Strapping Young Lad record on hold specifically to create this weird little joke record to make fun of pop punk. It perfectly depicts his utter disdain for conformity as well as capturing his absolute mania at its most immature. It’s like an origin story for a lunatic before he turns into a family man.

[@ShapeshifteR-TheAnomalyGameCat]

​@@danielbeaird6264Gene Hoglan🤣😉

[@wileysil3313]

@@danielbeaird6264 "I think his best with them was a song called "antiproduct" that's a weird pick, but whatever

[@kunk76it]

I'm really Happy you Discovered him, you just gained access to a beautiful world

[@Bingusman]

Devin played for like 1 minute and that minute was one of the most beautiful guitar sounds I’ve ever heard in my life

[@bushleague3472]

Tosin humbly plays supporting cast to the other two through the interview, then picks up his guitar and blows everyone's mind. We all wonder "How the hell do you follow that?" Then Devin goes smacks us all upside the head with a hard reminder that emotion and note choice trumps pure technical prowess every day of the week, and you start to realize...that's what the crazy bastard was trying to say the entire time. Absolutely epic.

[@dannycr06]

The most important thing about this interview is that these 3 guys are sometimes lumped together as "prog metal" but are so VASTLY different in everything. I love Devin's approach, he's sort of like how Prince was: all about getting an idea/feeling expressed than being theorically correct and exploring tons of soundscapes and environments. He even did the "having and entire place wired for recording" just like Prince. Geniuses like both of them crave the constant artistic expresion and creation and is all about that. Petrucci is more like a Clapton sort of guy and Tosin is the Van Halen sort in trying to express his ideas developing techniques and finding gear. I love it.

[@JaredMuskego4490]

I met Devin back in 2015 In my home city Edmonton, Alberta. We waited for almost an hour outside of the venue by the tour busses and he finally came out. He spoke to me and my girlfriend for about 5 minutes and was one of the most kindest human beings ive ever met. Hevy devy for life, im still rocking Terria, Synchestra etc to this day

[@freshskittles92]

i have a signed Synchestra CD that's genuinely one of my most prized possessions lmao

[@TheBadSpoon]

Whenever Devin speaks, I can clearly hear a genius, and when you're sitting next to JP and Tosin, that says a ton!

[@samwheeler-brown7458]

Before I found Rick, and long before I’d heard of Tosin or John, I was listening to the Devin Townsend Project live in the Albert Hall in London. The best rock show I’ve ever seen

[@stevemueller4703]

Devin’s music has had such a profound impact on my life. It gets me through tough times and it’s so good, it’s ineffable. JP has always been a favorite, and I am struck by how kind and generous he is in this video. What a beautiful soul. I’m not as familiar with Tosin but blown away by his talent and musical mind. Thank you, Rick for this gift. By far my favorite video that you have posted.

[@KasbashPlays]

A great way to approach Tosin and Animals As Leaders, is to start with a song called “Physical Education”. It’s the song that got me into listening to them proper.

[@speedsquishstupid]

@@KasbashPlays Or Tempting Time.

[@KasbashPlays]

@@speedsquishstupid Or even CAFO for that matter. Basically something people can snap their fingers or tap their feet to for the most part.

[@KakoSales85]

This conversation is more Philosophy than Music. And this is fucking amazing.

[@knightstalker87]

*Devin Townsend deserve Grammy as a great songwriter/composer..From Death Metal to Progg. and relaxing music. Definately “someone who we need,but not deserve.” 😊🙏🏾*

[@ogdens3603]

I heard Devin talk several times before hearing him sing. My jaw is still on the floor from the first experience. Hearing him talk about synesthesia makes so much sense as I contemplate his music. It's evident in how he composes and the way he plays guitar. You see and hear the deep and emotive expression.

[@joemoeller1442]

Devin’s answers are so insightful. He holds back until he has something very interesting to say.

[@zeno9057]

I love how Devin just translates everything in this philosofical and more emotional way. petrucci and abasi are crazy beasts technically speaking but devin has a special power that gets through you in an unique way, he's so underrated

[@aifrmedia]

Tosin and John have amazing theoretical discussions, while Devin just finds a way to sound like Socrates when talking about music. Fucking great man.

[@PhoenixUnlimited]

I'm probably going to watch this 100 times while I integrate the knowledge. So much legendary in one room. This gave me that first time hearing EVH play a guitar electricity

[@PeteOliva]

This is an absolute GOD-TIER discussion. One for the ages, three giants gathered. Thank you, Rick, you're almost endlessly doing great things to preserve these moments for music history. We've all had these thoughts "Imagine being a fly on the wall if so-and-so and so-and-so sat down for a discussion." Well, you're making these dreams come true, man!

[@CoolVIguy]

Its aboot time Devin got some serious credit on a major KZbin channel. ... reading the comment section is blowing me away. HE is the topic 🥰!! I saw DreamSonic in Vancouver Friday night and Devin looked like he was having a blast.. There is so much more to say about that concert...just awesome

[@hipmetalworx]

Spot on brother, wish I could have been there and I'm in Sidney. He shreds...He kills on vocals....wtf....BC air baby....cheers

[@paulhennessy5282]

i have never heard of or seen Devin Townsend before this but my god what an interesting and extremely intellectual artist every time he spoke you could see the three guys fully locked into his speaking as was I and his description of practice and playing is absolutely magnificent.

[@IDGAF_PLUS]

I could listen to Devy explain his take on just about anything and be totally captivated. He's an amazingly articulate and colorful orator.

[@Napierala]

I would watch a 3 hour Video of him talking about why certain noodles are his favorite and never get bored^^

[@danielnaberhaus5337]

Devin has continually climbed the ranks of my all time favourite musicians. He is so inspiring.

[@UnboundOdysseus]

I love all three of these musicians (and their music) for different reasons. I have to say, Devin is the guy I’d most like to have coffee with. He’s such a unique and original artist.

[@robertrelota8623]

Devin is the definition of an artist

[@djdanger9812]

Devin is so in tune with his soul that he’s spiritually on a different astral plane.

[@TerentiusD]

Devin is such an artist.

[@thatguyinaband6341]

dude for real! only guy I found who compares is Gran Hechicero

[@prophetofdoom5999]

I've always been a fan of Devin, but he's over here blowing my freaking mind right now

[@chitlun]

Love it when Devin was speaking about synesthesia. Made me think of a dear departed friend who was a brilliant a sound engineer. He had synesthesia and one time we were mixing a tune and he was getting frustrated and said “it’s not right, there’s not enough blue in the midrange” Until that point I’d never even heard of synesthesia… Fascinating!

[@pendragon6207]

'Watermark' by Enya is indeed a masterpiece. And it doesn't surprise me at all to hear Devin mention it. Definitely some sonic similarities there.

[@bullybar4078]

The authenticity and mutual respect between these guys is really a beautiful thing

[@ministryofguitar]

Devin Townsend enjoying himself hearing the other guitarists play towards the end is so genuine

[@ThePhilTorretto]

After watching this….I definitely need to do a deep dive on Devin. What an interesting perspective on music. Him being a synesthete is really fascinating and having to basically get a musical interpreter for the way he experiences musical sound as colors and shapes. Devin didn’t necessarily speak the most words in this interview but in a lot of ways he said the most.

[@kylereece1979]

Get ready for a Journey, my friend.👊 A Devin Deep Dive will see you explore crazy beautiful exotic and insane places often all at once! Its brilliantly impossible to pinpoint him down, because his multitude of music is very diverse. He can be as Earth Flattening heavy as Meshuggah one song, then he is floating in some kind of cosmic ambient synths the next. And hes got a fantastic sense of humor, so you find yourself smiling alongside the awe. Enjoy! 🤘👍

[@terria8825]

I'd pay a large amount of money to relive my discovery of Devin.

[@eere3343]

Empath is a masterpiece of a album

[@KEPHALLE]

Tosin and John are unbelievably skilled guitar players and incredible musicians. Devin is a genius.

[@educostanzo]

Gotta love Devin man! Guy is a total introvert and at the same time always so articulate about his artistic vision even when they point a little to the eccentric side. I could listen to him talk for hours. I love Tosin's face when Dev was describing his routine of coffee, train watching and jamming lol

[@essier5]

An introvert who does a great job at pretending he's an extrovert on stage. Amazing showman and personality when he's performing!

[@elec123]

I may be projecting but to me it looks like autism

[@Masterlessmusic]

I find Devin to actually be quite underrated as a player in general terms. Yeah he creates the amazing tapestries of sonic layering and orchestration but he's also got serious chops and can sing, entertain and shred simultaneously.And his singing is an intense gig in itself.

[@alexburchell1891]

He's also a songwriter first and foremost, and very good at playing in service to the song. He can shred like crazy, but he knows when to hold back and keep it simple and effective.

[@AlexanderStemkowski]

"Sing"! He absolutely rips the reality apart on Vai's "Sex & religion" with his voice!

[@downtownbillyandthenewjivefive]

@@alexburchell1891 So many forget that the music demands a certain ego sacrifice at times. Those times being all times.

[@512momo512]

For real ! Seen him twice and it's always wonderful. Outside of the music he's just fun to listen to and a good soul. Last time he gave his octupus plush to a little girl that he brought on stage.

[@jimh16]

@1:17:05 Devin's music just sounds like you are standing in a sonic landscape and notes are hitting you from every direction.

[@leerobbo92]

It's absolutely unreal. Really jarring going from Tosin's incredibly dry sound to the complete opposite end of the scale, sounds ilke there's extra dimensions involved or something!

[@elec123]

Breathtaking. I've looped that section all morning. It's great awareness from Rick as well. Devin being quiet and not finding his way into the conversation. Rick invites him just the right way.

[@scottenosh4548]

I love Townsend's 'psychology' approach to explaining music.

[@snowyrain5730]

This isn't the best interview I've seen by Rick. It's the best interview I've seen, by anyone. Three really intelligent guys (each in there own way) talking about music in a way that just makes you feel good. There is just so much going on here... I could write for an hour!

[@mmiller6873]

Because of this interview, I have discovered Devin Townsend and I totally love his music. That live version of Dead Heading is so damn awesome. He is so damn talented.

[@JeffReams]

You should check out Strapping Young Lad.

[@mmiller6873]

@@JeffReams will do and thx

[@nickstephens2913]

@@mmiller6873 yup, love? and detox brilliant songs !

[@jvsings9146]

So happy to see Devin Townsend on here. Devin is an absolute beast, and far under rated artist. Good Job Rick!

[@MrSphandor]

Devin is so freaking connected to the vibe that train looping thing sounds like a total trip.

[@darthvader11p]

I've thought of trying to score vids for fun, and know of a guitarist that has created material by doing that, but I've never thought of doing it while just waking up for the day with a looper like it's a backing track. And just doing like a snowy train video.... that is such a vibe. I will for sure be finding some atmospheric video to play to.

[@kco1981]

I want so much a conversation of Rick and Devin only!!! ❤️❤️❤️❤️ Devin is the most creative mind in music out there. A TRUE GENIUS!!

[@trfatman]

1:28:00 Watch as Devin blows Tosin's mind with his morning routine. If you compared the three to action heroes, John is like the gladiator, Tosin is like James Bond, and Devin is a Jedi Master.

[@chris_bern]

exactly

[@porkbeast3000]

Such a good way to put it

[@noisypinkbubble875]

I am so grateful to Dream Theater and Animals as Leaders on this tour, introducing so many new people to Devin. I've been listening to him since 2006 as a teenager, and it's like a grew up with his music. To see him grow from his SYL days into now and the way he's come into such a peace with himself, it's infectious. I try not to fanboy but he really is something special that I can't recommend enough to people I meet. And looking through the comments, it touches me to see that he's reaching so many people that otherwise might not have had a chance to hear him, both music and word.

[@chasebalcziunas4289]

It’s amazing what one can accomplish once you realize the secrets of the universe are between the buns.

[@ChasingKillersMusic]

Same. Would have loved to have heard a bit more from Devy here

[@frostythesasquatch]

@@ChasingKillersMusiche said everything he was meant to say.

[@tcw8287]

Aside from syl, where is good to start?

[@chasebalcziunas4289]

@@tcw8287 I was thrown into Deconstruction as my first taste of HevyDevy.

[@figgsboson]

ok I did not know Devin was chill like that. I really dig his approach and philosophies on music and artistry. Mad props to this series for bringing all their perspectives together

[@IggyBing]

1:27:56 - "Devin, what do you practice?" Nothing. Coffee, loopers, creativity. Freakin' genius.

[@HugoRBMarques]

Don't forget the train rides. Choo choo.