The Dramatic Guitar Virtuosity of Roland Grant

The Dramatic Guitar Virtuosity of Roland Grant

Stunning guitar virtuosity, sensational showmanship, and a sweeping dramatic crossover of rock with flamenco, Latin, and cinematic music are hallmarks of Roland Grant’s style, thrilling and entertaining live audiences with a stellar supporting band. Roland has opened for the likes of Keifer Sutherland and Orianthi – and recently performed at The Whisky in support of the final night of the Marty Friedman Live Drama Tour.  Highwire Daze caught with Roland Grant for an interview and Jack Lue photo shoot to find out a whole lot more about this absolutely brilliant guitarist on the rise…

How did the recent Marty Friedman show go and what were some of the highlights?
Having grown up listening to Megadeth and Cacophony, and learning Marty’s solos as a teenager, I was honored to open for an absolute legend and personal influence. The energy he gives onstage is over the top, and it was insightful conversing with him about guitars and Japan.

The tour concluded at the Whisky on the Sunset Strip . How did the show go and what goes through your mind when a tour like this comes to an end?
The audience was tremendous, and it was a pleasure shredding my guitar with every person in attendance being appreciative of this genre. At the close of a great show, I’m on a high before chasing the high of the next one. It’s my addiction.

For those who missed it, what could one expect from a live Roland Grant show?
My mission is for everyone to be supercharged with positive energy and come away feeling great. Featuring the talents of my virtuoso band is always a crowd-pleaser as well. The recent performance featured Ian Ross and Logan Nix from John 5’s band, and Bryard Huggins who was recently featured on a major international tour with Gladys Knight.

Another artist you opened for was the amazing Orianthi. What was that experience like and were you able to meet or hang out with her at all?
I discovered I was opening for Orianthi at The Whisky the day before I moved to LA. That was likewise an incredible show, as was the second time at The Canyon in Agoura Hills. It was a blessing to open for whom I consider the undisputed Queen of rock guitar. She’s an absolute class act and very cool to speak with.

You also opened for the amazing Pat Travers. What was that overall experience like?
Pat is a classic rock guitar pioneer, and it might not be well known that he was a significant influence on Nuno Bettencourt and Paul Gilbert. He and I both have roots in Canada before coming to the USA so I dubbed it The Canadian Takeover of West Hollywood.

The Whisky is sure an iconic venue. What was your overall experience like performing at The Whisky?
The Whisky is one of my favorite places on earth. I felt reborn from performing on that stage. I also feel the aura of the numerous rock legends whenever I’m there.

What do you think about the Los Angeles music scene overall?
The LA music scene has blessed me with opportunity that would be unimaginable anywhere else. I arrived here exactly one year ago with my gear in a van, from rural small town existence to a total rocket ride ever since I touched down. It’s become a beautiful journey and as crazy as this place can be, I feel perfectly at home here.

Another artist you opened for was Keifer Sutherland. What was that experience like and were you able to meet or hang out with Keifer at all?
Keifer is cool; personable and down to earth. Certainly, a serious musician rather than merely an actor who plays music.

Tell me about your Equilibrium album and the inspiration behind it.
As my first solo album, Equilibrium served as a CV for my skill sets at the time. The sound has evolved massively since then and I look forward to unveiling the new music soon.

Tell me about the Piano Quintet album and how that classical recording came about.
I lead an alternate life as a symphonic composer and this is an intensely personal work that I sought to capture on record. I rented a church and produced the recording featuring a concert pianist and a string quartet of professional symphony players. I’m proud of the result and released it for anyone who might enjoy listening.

Tell me about your endorsement with Godin Guitars and what you like the most about the brand.
I play the Godin Multiacs because they have the feel and look of an electric guitar with a nylon string sound. Their electrics are excellent as well. All workhorses for heavy use.

What advice would you give a young musician seeking an endorsement deal?
Twofold: put your best work into a sizzle reel or EPK, then actively pitch and network. Never hesitate a worthwhile pitch because you miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.

Any new recordings or tours on the horizon?
Currently I’m in a daily frenzy of writing and demoing for upcoming new releases. This week I confirmed another SoCal appearance, opening for Richie Kotzen at The Coach House Concert Hall in San Juan Capistrano on May 23.

Any messages for fans you met at the Marty Friedman show?
I was especially elated to meet a multitude of teens and people in their twenties who spoke enthusiastically about sweep arpeggios and all the music I grew up on. The future is bright. I can’t wait to see everyone again and always STAY LOUD!!

(Interview by Ken Morton – Photos by Jack Lue)

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