Player dossier / tim-collis

Tim Collis

Learn more about Tim Collis, the talented guitarist of TTNG (This Town Needs Guns), known for their unique math rock/indie rock sound.

GuitaristBritishMath RockIndie Rock
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The Life, Music, Gear

Tim Collis, born March 10, 1986, in the United Kingdom, is the innovative guitarist for the band TTNG (This Town Needs Guns). Known for his intricate fingerstyle technique and complex time signatures, Collis has been a pivotal force in the math rock and indie rock scenes. His playing is characterized by clean tones, melodic tapping, and a seamless blend of rhythm and lead parts.

Timeline

2004

TTNG Formation: Tim joins TTNG, marking the start of a new era in math rock.

2008

Debut Album: Release of Animals, showcasing Tim's intricate guitar work.

2013

13.0.0.0.0: A shift in sound with more complex compositions.

2016

Disappointment Island: Further exploration of melodic and rhythmic complexity.

Famous Songs

Equipment & Gear List

Early Life and First Guitars

Tim Collis grew up in a musically inclined family in the UK. His early exposure to a variety of musical genres helped shape his eclectic style. He picked up the guitar at a young age, initially inspired by classic rock and blues before discovering the intricate world of math rock.

His first guitar was a modest acoustic, but he quickly transitioned to electric, favoring the precision and clarity it offered for his developing style.

Playing Style Breakdown

Fingerstyle Technique – Utilizes fingerpicking for intricate melodic lines.
Complex Time Signatures – Mastery of odd meters and polyrhythms.
Melodic Tapping – Integrates tapping for fluid, melodic passages.
Clean Tones – Prefers a clear, articulate sound with minimal distortion.
Rhythm-Lead Fusion – Blends rhythm and lead seamlessly in compositions.

Personal Life and Influences

Tim Collis is known for his dedication to his craft and his humble demeanor. Outside of music, he enjoys exploring different cultures and cuisines, which often inspire his creative process. Influenced by a wide range of artists from Steve Reich to Radiohead, Tim continues to push the boundaries of guitar music.

Legacy and Influence

🎸

Influenced: A new generation of math rock guitarists.

🔄

Innovative Techniques: Pioneered new approaches in fingerstyle and tapping.

🌍

Global Reach: TTNG's music resonates worldwide, transcending language barriers.

🏆

Respected Figure: Admired for his technical prowess and musicality.

Essential Listening Starter Pack

“Panda” – A showcase of intricate guitar work and dynamic shifts.
“Chinchilla” – Features complex rhythms and melodic interplay.
“Adventure, Stamina & Anger” – Highlights Tim's unique fingerstyle technique.
“Cat Fantastic” – A blend of catchy melodies and technical prowess.
“Crocodile” – Combines rhythmic complexity with melodic clarity.

Closing Thoughts

Tim Collis continues to be a driving force in the math rock genre, inspiring countless guitarists with his innovative techniques and musical vision. His work with TTNG has left an indelible mark on the music world, proving that complexity and accessibility can coexist in harmony.

Images are presented for historical and reference purposes. Rights remain with their respective owners.