Key guitar on Biffy Clyro’s new album was a small Fender with built-in speaker
When looking for new sounds in the studio, Simon Neil of Biffy Clyro often strays away from his usual choice of Stratocasters. While he cherishes the versatility of the Gibson Les Paul and occasionally experiments with unique pedals, the hunt for the main electric guitar for Biffy Clyro’s latest album, Futique, led to an unexpected discovery.
Despite his deep-rooted connection to his cherished Strat, Neil stumbled upon the Michael Landau signature model that captivated him a decade ago. This fortuitous encounter marked the beginning of a new exploration into the realm of sonic possibilities. Venturing beyond the familiar territory of his Strat, Neil delved into the offerings of boutique companies like Fairlane Guitars from the UK and Novo Guitars from Nashville. The unconventional choice of guitars from these companies added a distinctive flavor to the album’s sound.
However, the standout instrument that significantly influenced the album’s tone was a diminutive Fender Champ. A rare gem from Fender Japan, the ST Champ boasted an unconventional design with a built-in speaker within its basswood body. Departing from the standard single-coil configuration, this peculiar guitar featured a single humbucker in the bridge position to accommodate the unique speaker setup. Although production of this innovative guitar ceased years ago, it left an indelible mark on the sound of the record.
Despite the inherent limitations of the ST Champ’s diminutive size, Neil found its sound to be remarkable. Describing it as capable of producing a distinctively sludgy tone, he emphasized the delightful warmth that emanated from the speaker. This unassuming guitar, often overshadowed by its more illustrious counterparts, found its way into the core sound of Biffy Clyro’s latest musical offering.
Noteworthy for its cult following, the ST Champ received praises from seasoned musicians like session guitarist Tom Bukovac. Its almost whimsical design and captivating sound quality have garnered accolades, reaffirming its status as a hidden gem in the world of guitars.
In addition to the ST Champ, Neil revealed the inclusion of another surprise guitar in the album – a reissue of a legendary Les Paul. Breaking away from convention and embracing unconventional instruments, Neil’s sonic journey in the studio led to the creation of a unique and captivating musical landscape in Futique.
While the Stratocaster remains his signature sound, Neil’s openness to experimentation and willingness to explore new sonic territories have enriched Biffy Clyro’s latest album with a multi-dimensional and eclectic sound palette. As fans eagerly anticipate the release of Futique, the album promises to be a testament to the creative spirit of artists who are unafraid of pushing boundaries and embracing the unconventional.