From Washington, D.C. to Guitar Innovator

Born on January 7, 1983, in Washington, D.C., Tosin Abasi is a guitarist, composer, and founder of the progressive metal band Animals as Leaders. Known for his groundbreaking techniques and innovative use of extended-range guitars, Abasi has redefined what is possible on the instrument, influencing a new generation of guitarists and musicians across various genres.

A Journey of Technical Mastery and Innovation

Tosin Abasi’s rise to fame began with his work in the metalcore band Reflux, but it was with the formation of Animals as Leaders in 2007 that his unique voice as a guitarist truly emerged. The band’s self-titled debut album, released in 2009, showcased Abasi’s virtuosic playing and complex compositions, blending elements of metal, jazz, classical, and electronic music. His use of seven and eight-string guitars allowed him to explore new sonic territories, creating intricate, polyrhythmic landscapes that challenged conventional guitar playing.

Iconic Tracks: Pushing the Boundaries of Guitar

Tosin Abasi’s work with Animals as Leaders is marked by its technical brilliance and creative exploration:

1. “CAFO” – A standout track from the debut album, this song is known for its complex rhythms, intricate tapping sequences, and mind-bending riffs that exemplify Abasi’s technical prowess.
2. “Tempting Time” – Another track from Animals as Leaders, it highlights Abasi’s ability to blend melodic passages with aggressive, high-speed picking and sweeping techniques.
3. “The Woven Web” – From the album The Joy of Motion, this track features Abasi’s signature blend of fingerstyle playing and tapping, creating a rich, layered sound that defies genre boundaries.
4. “Physical Education” – Also from The Joy of Motion, this song showcases Abasi’s knack for catchy, groove-driven compositions that still retain a high level of technical complexity.

Gear and Technique: The Evolution of Modern Guitar

Tosin Abasi is known for his use of extended-range guitars, particularly eight-string models that he has helped popularize. His collaboration with Ibanez led to the creation of his signature guitar line, the Ibanez TAM (Tosin Abasi Model) series, designed to accommodate his need for both low-end power and high-end clarity. Abasi’s playing technique is highly eclectic, incorporating fingerstyle, slap and pop techniques borrowed from bass playing, complex tapping, sweeping, and hybrid picking. His ability to seamlessly blend these techniques into cohesive musical statements has set him apart as one of the most innovative guitarists of his generation.

Influence and Impact

Tosin Abasi’s impact on the guitar world is profound. He has inspired a new wave of guitarists who seek to push the boundaries of what the instrument can do, particularly in the realms of progressive metal and djent. His approach to composition, which often eschews traditional song structures in favor of intricate, evolving pieces, has broadened the possibilities for what can be achieved in instrumental music. Abasi is also an advocate for music education, often participating in clinics and masterclasses to share his knowledge and techniques with aspiring musicians.

Conclusion: The Continuing Legacy of Tosin Abasi

Tosin Abasi remains at the forefront of modern guitar innovation, continually pushing the limits of his instrument and inspiring others to do the same. His work with Animals as Leaders has not only set new standards for technical proficiency but has also expanded the creative horizons of progressive music. Abasi’s commitment to evolving as a musician and educator ensures that his influence will be felt for years to come.

Bonus Track: 10 Facts About Tosin Abasi

1. Self-Taught Beginnings: Initially self-taught on guitar, Abasi honed his skills by learning to play songs by ear.
2. Berklee College of Music: Attended Berklee College of Music, where he refined his technical abilities and deepened his understanding of music theory.
3. Extended-Range Pioneer: One of the most prominent advocates for extended-range guitars, particularly seven and eight-string models.
4. Animals as Leaders: Founded Animals as Leaders as a solo project, which later evolved into a full band, becoming a leading name in progressive metal.
5. Signature Guitar Line: Developed a signature line of guitars with Ibanez, tailored to his specific playing style and needs.
6. Incorporation of Genres: Known for blending a wide range of musical genres, from jazz and classical to electronic and metal, into his compositions.
7. Teaching and Clinics: Frequently conducts guitar clinics and masterclasses, sharing his innovative techniques with students worldwide.
8. Entrepreneurial Ventures: Launched his own guitar brand, Abasi Concepts, which produces custom guitars with unique designs and features.
9. Influential Albums: Released multiple critically acclaimed albums with Animals as Leaders, each pushing the boundaries of what progressive metal can be.
10. Cultural Impact: Recognized as a leading figure in the modern guitar community, influencing both the technical and aesthetic aspects of contemporary guitar playing.

Listen to Tosin Abasi in my playlist “Tosin Abasi & Company” on Spotify.