Progressive Rock Journal Interview

Taken from Progressive Rock Journal:

> A 6-track album in the form of a concept, what is the theme that binds the songs?

“I would say that the overall theme of the album is isolation. I had this idea of our mind as a cage that we sometimes live in. For some people this may be seen as daydreaming or being lost in our thoughts. For others this may be mental obstacles that prohibit us from doing what we would like to do. On the extreme side, these are the people who have appeared to have “lost their mind” and no longer make sense to the rest of society.“
 

> A work that incorporates different genres and styles, how would you describe the music on the album?

“I wanted it grounded in a progressive rock sound first and foremost so that it almost acted as an extension of what I’m doing in Aziola Cry. I tend to compose in odd time signatures, so I definitely didn’t stop myself from writing in a similar way. What I did differently was not restrict myself solely to a more rock vibe but incorporate my appreciation for classical music as well. Ultimately, I wanted the playing to sound like me and different from the solo touchstyle music that is already out there. In terms of following the storyline, I liked that each of the six pieces worked together to form a cohesive whole, but also had unique characteristics that separated them.“
 

> How does the sound of the album differ from that of your band Aziola Cry?

“Like I mentioned, I hear a lot of similarities between the two and that was intentional. The last song, “Denouement of Logic” could almost be an Aziola Cry song. My original goal was to create an album that did not require guitar and drums.  It had nothing to do with not wanting to play with the guys, but rather setting a challenge for myself to see what it would sound like.“
 

> Many will wonder if there will be the possibility to listen to your music live, do you have any plans for that?

“I do. I have two shows already lined up for next month. One is in Chicago and the other is in Milwaukee. I plan to expand on this, and book further shows after I finish up an album that I am working on with another project that I am involved with called Backward Sky Falling.  

Also, I recorded a somewhat live video of each of the songs which will be released over time. They were shot in black and white and contain short animations that help further tell the story. At this point, episodes one and two have premiered and may be viewed on my YouTube channel.
 

> In the album you explore the sounds of the Warr Guitar, tell us more about this instrument and its characteristics.

“The Warr guitar is a twelve string touchstyle instrument which means that you play it by taping the strings. The nature of the instrument allows for a lot of sonic possibilities. From interlocking lines to guitar and bass playing simultaneously to an almost percussive attack. I tried to incorporate the many possibilities of the instrument into each of the songs. If you go to my website, jasonblakemusic.com, you can find pictures of the different Warr guitars that I play.“

Progressive Rock Journal Exclusive Stream of "Imaginary Cages"

I am excited for everyone to hear my new album of solo Warr guitar. Progressive Rock Journal has partnered with me to bring an exclusive pre-release stream of the album. Also, included is a short interview that I recently did for the magazine. Click below to read the interview and listen to the album:

https://progrockjournal.com/news-jason-blake-present-in-exclusive-the-solo-album-imaginary-cages-via-progressive-rock-journal/

Sonic Perspectives Premieres "Obscured Clarity"

Metal Sucks Premieres “Abstractions of Thought”

I am excited for everyone to see the premiere of episode 1: Abstractions of Thought from my new album “Imaginary Cages”. Thank you MetalSucks.net!

https://www.metalsucks.net/2022/01/24/premiere-aziola-crys-jason-blake-unveils-warr-guitar-solo-track-imaginary-cages-episode-1-abstractions-of-thought/

Press Release: https://www.earsplitcompound.com/jason-blake-metalsucks-premieres-first-video-episode-from-imaginary-cages-instrumental-solo-album-by-aziola-cry-warr-guitarist-nears-release-via-wayfarer-records-preorders-posted/

Invisible Oranges Interview

Check out my recent artist vs artist interview with Keven Berk on Invisible Oranges. I talk about Aziola Cry, the Warr guitar, and more. Also included is the premier of Aziola Cry’s playthrough video for “Premonitions” from “The Ironic Divide”.

Invisible Oranges Interview: https://www.invisibleoranges.com/aziola-cry-vs-apogetic/

Press Release: https://www.earsplitcompound.com/aziola-cry-invisible-oranges-premieres-multi-member-playthrough-video-from-chicago-progressive-metal-trio-via-artist-to-artist-feature-the-ironic-divide-out-now-on-sensory-records/

Warr Guitar vs Chapman Stick

I am often asked how the Warr Guitar differs from the Chapman Stick. There are similarities in that the tuning can be the same (BEADGC C#F#BEAD is what I use) and they are both played using the touch style method. I still own my original Stick (seen below with one of my Warr Guitars) so in looking at the two instruments, it becomes clear that there are similarities in the overall idea.

The differences lie in the body construction and electronics. The Warr has two jacks for the melody and bass sides while the Stick uses a stereo cable that may be used in stereo or mono output positions. The Warr guitar uses a guitar strap and can be moved to sit in the vertical position or a more horizontal position. The Stick clips onto your belt and uses the arm strap to stay secured in the vertical position. The Stick uses an assortment of pickups (I have an active Block pickup) designed by Stick Enterprises. The Warr guitars used to use Bartolini pickups (pictured on mine below), but now use custom pickups designed by Pete Hanewinckel, the builder.

Personally, I like the feel of having the guitar body there. I also feel like the Warr Guitar adds sustain that I do not get with the Stick. Having said that, the Stick is convenient as it fits in a nice thin bag and can be transported easily.

Reach out if you are considering purchasing one and I would be more that willing to offer more insight. Thanks.