Player dossier / oluwatosin-ayoyinka-olumide-abasi
Oluwatosin Ayoyinka Olumide Abasi
Known as Tosin Abasi
Explore the innovative world of Tosin Abasi, the celebrated guitarist in progressive metal known for his virtuosic technique and role as the founder of Animals as Leaders.
The Life, Music, Gear
Oluwatosin Ayoyinka Olumide Abasi, known as Tosin Abasi, was born on January 7, 1983, in Washington, D.C. As the founder of the progressive metal band Animals as Leaders, Abasi has redefined what is possible on a guitar, blending intricate fingerstyle techniques with electronic elements and offering groundbreaking compositions that challenge and inspire musicians worldwide.
Timeline
Reflux Disbands: After Reflux disbands, Abasi takes a break to study music at the Atlanta Institute of Music.
Animals as Leaders Release: Debut album solidifies his status as a guitar innovator.
The Joy of Motion: Animals as Leaders' album reaches No. 23 on the Billboard Top 200.
Fender Collaboration: Launches Abasi Concepts, creating custom, ergonomic guitars.
Famous Songs
Equipment & Gear List
Awards & Achievements
Early Life and First Guitars
Born to Nigerian immigrants, Abasi started playing guitar at age 12. He quickly progressed from a beginner’s Stratocaster knock-off to high-end instruments, fostering a deep fascination with extended range guitars. His early influence came from bands like Metallica and Megadeth, and later from jazz and fusion artists as he developed his signature style.
Animals as Leaders and Collaborations
Animals as Leaders was born from Abasi’s desire to create music without creative constraints. As a self-taught guitarist, his partnership with guitarist Javier Reyes and drummer Matt Garstka has led to the recording of complex compositions that transcend traditional metal. Abasi has also collaborated with music technology companies, enhancing and designing guitar models and digital audio plugins.
Studio Innovation
Abasi’s approach to studio work is marked by embracing digital advancements and the fusion of analog warmth with precise electronic sound shaping. His use of modeling technology, like the Axe-FX, and software plugins, such as Neural DSP, allows him to craft expansive soundscapes without limits.
Playing Style Breakdown
Personal Life and Redemption
Tosin Abasi, while largely reserved about his personal life, is vocal about his dedication to education and advocacy for diversity in music. Beyond his innovative playing, he’s a mentor to aspiring musicians and promotes inclusivity through panels and music clinics, imparting his philosophy that music transcends boundaries.
Legacy and Influence
Technical Virtuoso: Pushed guitar boundaries, inspiring generations of progressive metal guitarists.
Composer: Known for complex, genre-blending compositions.
Performer: Captivates audiences with precision and innovation.
Innovator: Created guitars and technology that redefine standard practices.
Essential Listening Starter Pack
Getting the Tosin Abasi Sound at Home
Guitar
Opt for an 8-string. Abasi Concepts guitars are specially designed to suit his style with ergonomic designs and extended range capabilities.
Strings
Tosin typically uses custom gauge strings to handle both lower registers and melodic leads.
Pedals
Explore modulation and reverb effects that can expand sound dynamics, alongside digital overdrive.
Amps
Utilize modeling amps like the Axe-FX to recreate his precise tone. Balancing between high fidelity cleans and overdriven sounds is key.
Technique
Focus on mastery of fingerstyle, tapping, and polyrhythmic execution. Versatility and precision define his sound.
Closing Thoughts
Tosin Abasi is not just a guitarist, but a pioneer who continues to shape modern music’s landscape. From technical marvels to expressive artistry, his work reflects the endless possibilities on guitar — a journey propelled by innovation and a deep commitment to push beyond the status quo.
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