The Official ESP Guitars Blog!

Children of Bodom Announces Tour, Sponsored by ESP!

2011-11-08T09:21:00.000-08:00

World famous Finnish metal superstars CHILDREN OF BODOM have announced a North American headlining tour in celebration of the band’s 15th Anniversary. Presented by ESP in association with Full Metal Jackie, the quindecennial trek will kick off on January 30, 2012 in Rochester, NY and run through March 4, hitting 26 cities over the course of the five week jaunt. Support on the CHILDREN OF BODOM anniversary tour will come from Swedish folk metal band Eluveitie, Boston extreme metal band Revocation and Canada’s Threat Signal.   

CHILDREN OF BODOM (or COB) continues to tour the globe in support of its critically acclaimed new album Relentless Reckless Forever which landed at #41 on the Billboard Top 200 in its first week of release. Fronted by vocalist and international guitar hero Alexi “Wildchild” Laiho, the band high-energy hooks and electric energy forge stadium-sized heavy metal anthems that seethe with marvelous musicianship. 15 years into its career, COB continues to grow its ever-expanding fan base via supercharged live shows that have also made fans of some of hard rock’s biggest names.

ESP Guitars presents CHILDREN OF BODOM  With Eluveitie, Revocation and Threat Signal 

In association with Full Metal Jackie
 Brought to you by Spinefarm Records, Good Fight Entertainment, Nuclear Blast Records, Relapse Records & ACTION! PR  

January 30 - Rochester, NY (Water Street Music Hall )
January 31 - Detroit, MI (Harpos)
February 1 - Grand Rapids, MI (Intersection )
February 3 - Milwaukee, WI (The Rave)
 February 4 - St. Louis, MO (Pops)
February 6 - Lawrence, KS (Granada Theater)
 February 7 - Denver, CO (Gothic Theater)
 February 9 - Las Vegas, NV (House of Blues)
February 10 - Salt Lake City, UT (The Complex)
 February 11 - Boise, ID (Knitting Factory)
February 13 - Santa Ana, CA (Yost Theatre) 
February 14 - San Diego, CA (House of Blues)
 February 15 - Phoenix, AZ (Marquee Theatre)
February 17 - Albuquerque, NM (Sunshine Theatre)
February 18 - El Paso, TX (Tricky Falls)
February 19 - Lubbock, TX (Pavilion)
 February 21 - Austin, TX (Emos East)
February 22 - Houston, TX (Warehouse Live)
February 24 - Louisville, KY (Expo 5)
February 25 - Cleveland, OH (Peabodys)
February 26 - Toronto, ON (The Sound Academy)
 February 27 - Montreal, QC (Metropolis)
 February 29 - Quebec City, QC (Imperial)
March 1 - Hartford, CT (Webster Theatre)
March 2 - Huntington, NY (The Paramount Theater)
March 3 - Sayreville, NJ (Starland Ballroom)
March 4 - Baltimore, MD (Ram's Head Live )

Alexi Laiho (Children of Bodom) video interview

2011-08-10T13:13:00.000-07:00

ESP Guitars talks with Children of Bodom frontman and longtime ESP player Alexi Laiho in an exclusive interview. Listen to his thoughts on the latest album, his favorite ESP guitars, his big influences, and more! More info on Alexi's ESP and LTD guitars here!

ESP Announces New Guitars & Basses for Summer/Fall 2011!

2011-07-20T14:35:00.000-07:00

2011 is turning out to be an exciting year at ESP. As we continue to grow in popularity, our success allows us to create more and more new guitars for you to enjoy. During most years, we do all of our new product introductions at the Winter NAMM show (in January) and the Musikmesse show (in March/April). This year, however, we’re happy to be able to offer a whole new batch of LTD models that are premiering for Summer 2011.

7- and 8-String Heaven
You asked; we delivered. With the popularity of guitars with more than the standard six strings on the rise (due in part to new musical movements like the Djent scene), we have a bunch of new guitars that fit your many-stringed needs!

In the seven-string category, the new EC-407, EX-307, and V-307 takes three of our most popular body shapes and offers them in powerful yet affordable 7-string versions. The new EC-407 comes in BLKS (Black Satin) and SWS (Snow White Satin) finishes, and offers a mahogany body with maple top. The EX-407 and V-307 are being offered in BLKS (Black Satin), and also include pro features such as mahogany bodies, maple necks, and rosewood fingerboards. All three models use a combination of EMG 81-7 and EMG 707 pickups.

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If seven strings just aren’t enough for you, it’s time to check out the new H-308, H-338, and H-208 models. Based on our H-style body shape, the H-308 delivers high performance via a set-thru maple neck, mahogany body, and an EMG 808 active pickup set. Part of our new 330 Series, the H-338 is a similar guitar, but has a bolt-on neck and includes our new ESP ALH-208 active pickups. Both models come in BLKS (Black Satin) finishes. Each of the new 7- and 8-string models with satin finishes also feature black satin hardware. The H-208 is a very affordable 8-string guitar in a BLK (Gloss Black) finish, with a basswood body, chrome hardware and passive ESP LH-308 pickups.

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Eclipsing Your Expectations
The EC body style continues as one of LTD’s most popular guitars, and for good reason. We’re happy to offer an exciting new set of finish choices to the EC-401FM: STBLKSB (See Thru Black Sunburst), STBCSB (See Thru Black Cherry Sunburst), RDB (Reindeer Blue), and BLKAQSB (Black Aqua Sunburst). What hasn’t changed are the excellent specs of the EC-401FM, with mahogany bodies and flamed maple tops, mahogany necks and rosewood fingerboards, a set neck design, and EMG 81/60 pickup sets.

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But wait: the EC-401 is also getting a new look, with a Vintage Black finish. As you probably know, our ESP Eclipse-II VB and LTD EC-1000 Vintage Black guitars are among the most popular in the our line, so now you’ll be able to get into this hot look at an even more affordable price.

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If you’re into the vintage look and sound, the EC-401VF has two great new finishes to choose from: STBLK (See Thru Black) and STBC (See Thru Black Cherry). Like other models in the EC-401VF line, these guitars include mahogany bodies with flamed maple tops, and implement Seymour Duncan JB (bridge) and '59 (neck) pickups.

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As if all that weren’t enough in the world of the LTD EC line, there’s still more. The EC-256P is a blast to the past, with ESP LP90S pickups (like the well-known single coil, but with stacked coils for hum cancellation). This instant-classic axe has a mahogany body and neck, and a rosewood fingerboard. It’s not distressed, so you’ll need to put your own road wear on it. The EC-256P comes in two finishes: MGO (Metallic Gold) and BLK (Black), with nickel hardware on the Gold model and gold hardware on the Black version.

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Getting Bit by the Viper and Stung by the ST
Similar to the new EC-256P, the new Viper-256P offers two ESP LP90S pickups, which provide all the bite and high output you want while avoiding all the hum that you don’t. The Viper-256P has a set-neck design, and uses mahogany for its body and neck, and rosewood for its fingerboard. This guitar is available in BLK (Black) finish with gold hardware, and STBC (See Thru Black Cherry) with nickel hardware... a classic look in both cases.

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Continuing our inclusion of ESP high performance to affordable new guitars, the Distressed Series ST-203 guitar is now available in new fingerboard wood configurations. The Floyd Rose-equipped ST-203FR is now being offered with a rosewood fingerboard, while the standard ST-203 now comes in two distressed finishes: 3TB (Three Tone Burst) and BLK (Black), both with maple fingerboards. With a nod to the classic guitars of yesterday, the ST-203 has an alder body and bolt-on maple neck.

LTD Xtone Acoustics: Lefties and 12’s
In January, we announced an entire new line of LTD Xtone acoustic guitars. In April, we upped the ante by adding new exotic wood models. Now, we’re happy to announce that even more models are being made available. The AC-10E-LH is a left-handed version of the AC-10E guitar, while the new AC-10E-12 is a 12-string version. Like the standard AC-10E, the new models offer a spruce top, mahogany back and sides, a mahogany neck, and a built-in ESP preamp with 2-band EQ and tuner. The AC-10-LH and AC-10-12 will both be available in BLK (Black) and PW (Pearl White) finishes.

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Back to Bassics
You didn’t think we would leave bass players out of this summer cornucopia of new products, did you? We’ve added an entire new series to the LTD line with the J Series J-204 and J-205 basses. Designed as a solution for people who want high-level playability and tone while still remaining within a budget, the J-204 and J-205 (4- and 5-string respectively) are classic players’ basses that offer alder bodies and tortoise shell pick guards on their 3TB (Three Tone Burst) finishes. Both come with a maple bolt-on neck, rosewood fingerboard, and an ESP LDJ pickup set. Additionally, the LTD Vintage-204 has a new fingerboard choice: the Distressed Black model now has a rosewood fingerboard option available.

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Finally, LTD’s very popular B Series now includes two new models: the B-50FM and the B-55FM. These affordable bass models take our B-50 and add flamed maple tops for a great look. They are each available in three finishes: STRSB (See Thru Red Sunburst), STBSB (See Thru Blue Sunburst), and DBSB (Dark Brown Sunburst).

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We hope you’ve enjoyed this look at our surprising Summer 2011 offerings. To learn more about these great new guitars and basses, visit your local ESP/LTD dealer!

Win an LTD Guitar today at Mayhem Fest!

2011-07-09T11:13:00.000-07:00

We just got a call from Allen Steelgrave, director of marketing and artist relations for ESP. He's apparently in a giving mood, because he let us know the following:

"Tell everyone who's attending the Rockstar Mayhem Festival today at San Manuel Amphitheater in San Bernardino, CA that if they find me and say "ESP RULES!", I will give away an LTD guitar to the first five people!"

So, here's how to find Allen: he'll be wearing white sneakers, shorts, and a black ESP t-shirt with the sleeves cut off. If you're one of the first five people who walk up to Allen and say "ESP RULES!", he will give you contact info so that next week, you can get in touch and claim your LTD guitar! To make it a little easier to find Allen in the throngs of people, here's a photo of him:

Best of luck in finding Allen today at Mayhem, and winning your own LTD!

Buyer Beware! Watch out for counterfeit ESPs/LTDs!

2011-07-08T15:42:00.001-07:00

It has come to our attention that as a result of the increased demand for our product, there are an increasing number of counterfeit ESP/LTD guitars available for sale through non authorized online stores. After 35 years of making high quality instruments, it is also our intention, and responsibility to let our friends know when something like this comes to light. Please make sure you are buying from a trusted source.

Finally, we would like to say that while some counterfeit models may look like real ESP guitars, they do not sound or play like real ESPs. With these counterfeits, substandard materials are being used. The end result is that you would be very disappointed in the sound and feel of the guitar. All authorized ESP dealers and distributors are listed on the ESP Guitars web site. So before you buy please make sure you are getting your guitar from a trusted source.

Thank you for choosing ESP Guitars.

Matt Masciandaro
President and CEO

ESP on "The Price is Right"

2011-07-01T11:45:00.000-07:00

Founded in 1956, "The Price is Right" is one of TV's longest-running game shows. Most of you probably recall the show's host from 1972 through 2007, Bob Barker. Since 2007, though, the show has been updated while still keeping the good parts of its original vibe, and a new host stepped in to fill Barker's large shoes: comedian Drew Carey. One thing that's changed is that some of the prize offerings have become much more cool and modern.

Well, it just so happens that ESP Guitars has a long relationship with the CBS broadcasting company, so when they asked us if we wanted to offer some prizes for the show, we were happy to do so. Additionally, as opposed to just having their attractive hostesses point and grin at the prizes, "The Price is Right" decided to have people there to show off what these prizes can do. All this is leading up to telling you how ESP player Jason Miller of goth rock band Godhead appeared recently on the show.

As you can see up top in a photo taken during rehearsals, the prize being offered on this particular episode was an LTD Deluxe Phoenix-1000. We're not sure who ended up taking this baby home, but we do know they were happy about it! the LTD Phoenix-1000 offers a neck-thru-body setup at 25.5" scale, with a mahogany body, maple neck, ebony fingerboard, Tonepros TOM bridge and tailpiece, Seymour Duncan JB (bridge) / '59 (neck) pickups, and more.

So, the next time you find yourself in LA, score some tickets to TPIR and you never know... instead of a new dishwasher, you might take home a new ESP!

Enter to Win an LTD H-1001FM signed by Rob Caggiano

2011-06-13T10:59:00.000-07:00

We can't say it any better than Mr. Caggiano... you lucky bastard...

One lucky person is going to end up with an awesome guitar thatʼs been made even better with the addition of Rob Caggianoʼs signature! As the guitarist for both Anthrax and The Damned Things, Rob knows a great guitar when he sees one, and the H-1001FM is a solid example of greatness. It has set-thru construction, a 25.5" scale, mahogany body with flamed maple top, maple neck, rosewood fingerboard, 24 XJ frets, ESP locking tuners, Tonepros locking TOM bridge, and EMG 81 (bridge) / 85 (neck) active pickups, all wrapped in an amazing see-thru black cherry finish.

Only one person (age 13 or older, US and Canada residents only) will be the winner of this magnificent guitar, and only one entry is available per person. Get your entry in by July 31, 2011, see the official rules and regulations for details, and best of luck to you from Rob Caggiano and ESP!

ENTER HERE

Hungry? Have some Snakebyte cake!

2011-05-23T14:51:00.000-07:00

We don't know much about Jeppe Brandt, other than a) he loves his LTD EX-401 and that he worships Metallica (he told us those things). But since he can't yet afford a new James Hetfield Snakebyte signature series guitar, he decided to make one for himself. But instead of a playable version, he made an edible version...

Apparently, one string was enough for this tasty delight. We doubt anyone eating the Snakebyte cake would complain. By the way, we saw this pic posted on the wall of our official ESP Guitars Facebook page at www.facebook.com/espguitars. If you haven't liked us yet, be sure to do so now... otherwise, we might never see your pics of guitar cakes, and other cool stuff you can show us.

Now... who's got a fork?

ESP Co-Sponsors Firewind "Frets of Fury" Fall Tour

2011-05-17T14:19:00.000-07:00

FIREWIND Announces Their “Frets of Fury” Headlining North American Fall Tour; Gus G. Comments On The Tour and Special VIP Ticketing Options

You've probably seen modern day guitar hero/ESP player Gus G. tearing it up on tour with Ozzy, but believe it or not, his own band Firewind has never done a North American headlining tour... until now!

The Firewind “Frets of Fury” tour, sponsored by ESP Guitars, BlackStar Amps and Guitar World, kicks off on Oct. 9th and features a wide array of metal's elite: Arsis, White Wizzard and Nightrage. This is easily one of the most diverse and exciting tours of the fall and stay tuned to www.facebook.com/firewindofficial over the coming weeks for the entire list of tourdates and VIP ticketing options.

Gus G. states: “We couldn’t be happier to announce our first full North American tour! It’s been over three years since Firewind toured from coast to coast across the U.S. and we’re coming back stronger than ever with a killer package. We put a lot of thought into who we wanted to go out with us and truly believe that each band on this bill brings something special to the table making this a very diverse line-up. However, shredding guitar driven metal remains the prominent feature across the board.

“In fact there’s more to it than just that, as this package is somewhat of a musical family tree. Not many people know this but Arsis’ guitarist James Malone and I went to Berklee together back in 1998. We had an instrumental band together for awhile, which later became Firewind. James is a kick ass shredder and I’m glad our bands are finally touring together.

“Also, most people don't know that I played in Nightrage for few years. I did two albums with them and their main-man Marios Iliopoulos is a phenomenal guitar player. He also filled in on bass for Firewind this year, when Petros was unable to tour. Nightrage is one of my favorite bands and you definitely got to come down early to check them out. White Wizzard are currently making noise worldwide and they’re definitely a band to watch out for as well. We’re proud to have these great bands on board with us, making this such a high quality package for all metal fans.

“We will also offering special VIP ticketing options for each show on this tour that will allow you access into a private meet and greet with the band, a signed poster and limited edition laminate. See you out there this fall.”

In other news, FIREWIND have also recently launched a free and official iPhone App, which can be downloaded for free here. Don't forget to pick up FIREWIND's latest album, Days of Defiance, which is an epic, exhilarating rollercoaster of melodic metal proficiency coupled with a barrage of jaw-dropping guitar-work that will leave you breathless. Finally, you can always take a look at Gus G's complete line of Signature Series guitars at the ESP web site.

MMA Superstar Josh Barnett Announces Japanese Benefit Show

2011-05-16T19:01:00.000-07:00

ESP Co-Sponsors May 26 House of Blues (Hollywood) Japan Benefit Show featuring All Shall Perish, Animals As Leaders, Thrown Into Exile and More

It's common knowledge that actions speak louder than words, and MMA superstar Josh Barnett is truly a man of action as he has spearheaded a relief fund to help the victims of the recent tragedy that hit Japan. Barnett is very open about his love of heavy metal and he knew it made perfect sense to put together a show that featured some of metal's best acts to raise some money for this very worthy cause.

This special event featuring All Shall Perish, Animals As Leaders, Cattle Decapitation, Abysmal Dawn, Internal Corrosion and Thrown Into Exile is set to take place at the House of Blues in Hollywood on Thursday, May 26th and all net proceeds go directly to the American Red Cross Japanese relief effort. Tickets are only $15 and are on-sale now at www.hob.com or at www.ticketmaster.com.

Barnett states: "As someone that has worked in Japan over the last nine years and even lived there for a time, I felt an obligation to try and help a country which has shown so much love and hospitality to me over the years. This event dealt a devastating blow to the 'Land of The Rising Sun,' not only economically but to the hearts, minds and souls of its people. I don't think that my event can in any way reverse what has happened or completely restore a country and its people, but music has the power to move the heart and soul. That kind energy can reach masses and be transferred to others and if even one person can be helped, it was worth it. In any form that we can generate funds, support and just simply the bushido spirit to all those affected by this we will be successful and keep the sun forever rising in Japan.

“I am incredibly lucky and thankful for all the bands, companies and people that have helped me organize such an awesome show and I not only look forward to seeing everyone there but to sit back and be a fan myself. I'll be the big blonde guy headbanging, horns in the air."

New ESP video demos from Rob Caggiano, Rowan Robertson

2011-05-05T14:11:00.000-07:00

Hey ESP fans... we are going to town on new video demos. You want to hear our guitars? Now you can! We're inviting some of our well-known players to do demos just for you, and the first batch is ready to bring joy to your eyes and ears.

1. Rob Caggiano (Anthrax/The Damned Things) gives you a demo of the LTD H-1001! More info on the H-1001 here .

2. More Rob Caggiano, this time with the ESP Horizon NT-II. More info on this guitar here.

3. You can't get enough Rob Caggiano, can you? Here he is giving you a demo of the new LTD Xtone AC-30E. More info on the AC-30E here.

4. Here's Rowan Robertson, who played with Dio among others, showing off the LTD EC-1000T/CTM. More info on this guitar here.

5. Another Rowan Robertson video, this time for the new LTD Xtone AC-10E. Get more info on the AC-10E here.

As always you can get the latest info on our guitars and basses at www.espguitars.com, and you should also join us on Twitter and Facebook for up-to-the-minute news on what's happening in ESP-land!

New Guitars & Basses: Spring 2011

2011-03-30T14:19:00.000-07:00

Spring is in the air. Birds are chirping, bees are buzzing... and ESP is getting ready to release a batch of killer new guitars and basses. Let’s spring ahead with the news.

More New LTD Xtone Acoustics!
We blew everyone away at the NAMM Show in January with our announcement of four new LTD Xtone acoustic guitars, each in three finishes. But even with those 12 new guitars still leaving our factories, we decided to up the ante and offer another 11 acoustics that are bound to blow you away.

The LTD Xtone D-5 is our first purely acoustic model... that is to say, you’re not going to find anywhere to plug anything into this guitar except your creativity and your chops. The D-5 is a great starter acoustic guitar, combining ESP’s attention to detail with a price that will allow nearly any musician to get into playing acoustic. Even at its very affordable price, the D-5 is a classic dreadnought that offers a spruce top, mahogany back and sides, and rosewood fingerboard like guitars that cost many times more. The D-5 is available in three classic finishes: Natural, Black, and 2-Tone Burst. But we didn’t stop there. For those of you who do want to amplify your affordable acoustic axe, the new DC-5E adds a cutaway, an ESP 2-band preamp, and a built-in ESP piezo pickup. Like the D-5, the DC-5E is also available in Natural, Black, and 2-Tone Burst finishes.

CLICK TO ENLARGE... LTD Xtone D-5

CLICK TO ENLARGE...LTD Xtone DC-5E

For guitar players who like to stand out a little more, we’re proud to offer our new LTD Xtone Exotic Wood series of acoustic guitars. The EW-QA offers a beautiful Quilted Ash top, back, and sides, with a Natural Gloss finish. The EW-O has the amazing texture of Ovangkol top, back and sides, also with Natural Gloss to allow the intricate grain to shine through. The EW-P is a new model with top, back, and sides made of Padauk, with a resulting reddish tint that’s incredible when you see it up close. For a truly unique look, check out the EW-SM, with Spalted Maple as the material for the top, back, and sides. Perhaps the most radical of all the new acoustic models for Spring 2011, the EW-Z has Zebrawood top, back, and sides. All of the new Exotic Wood series guitars include a built-in B-Band electret film transducer pickup, with a T-35 3-band EQ and onboard tuner.

CLICK TO ENLARGE...LTD Xtone Exotic Wood Series

LTD 330 Series: High Quality That You Can Afford
If you’re a musician on a budget (which means you’re part of 99% of all musicians), you’re often faced with a dilemma: how much quality are you willing to give up just to get a guitar you can actually afford? With the new LTD 330 Series, you no longer have to make that choice... these are great guitars that give you way more than you’d expect from their price tags.

All of the new 330 Series guitars feature active pickups made by ESP. The all-new ESP ALH-200 is an outstanding active pickup that should satisfy even the most discerning shredder who appreciates a high-output pickup. The new models include the EC-330 (Black finish), the H-330NT (Snow White finish), the M-330R (Black finish, with a Floyd Rose special bridge), the MH-330FR (Electric Blue with a Floyd Rose special bridge), and the Viper-330 (Black finish).

CLICK TO ENLARGE...LTD 330 Series Guitars

More new LTDs: Deluxe, Distressed, and Signature Series
Let’s start by telling you about an instant classic: the LTD EC-1000 VB/Duncan. Our hugely popular EC-1000 guitar in Vintage Black is now being offered with Seymour Duncan JB (bridge) and ’59 (neck) pickups for a sound that’s so sweet, you won’t believe it until you hear it. The EC-1000 VB/Duncan has gold hardware (including a Tonepros locking TOM bridge), 22 XJ frets, and aged binding for the ultimate in great looks and feel.

CLICK TO ENLARGE...LTD EC-1000 VB/Duncan

For a classic look that’s in the price range of any player, try out the new LTD Viper-256, available in Aged Vintage Black and Aged Vintage Cherry. These great-looking (and great-feeling) Vipers have a distressed finish that makes it seem as if you’ve been rocking this guitar for decades. It also features a push-pull coil tap on the tone control for a nice variety of sounds for different tunes.

CLICK TO ENLARGE...LTD Viper-256

Through his work with Ozzy Osbourne and Firewind, Gus G. has become one of the world’s most respected guitarists. We’re celebrating Gus’s recognition with a redesign of two of his Signature Series models, and a reissue of another. The LTD GUS-600EC is a one-of-a-kind single-cutaway EC shape with a 25.5” scale and a custom graphic finish. The first time we introduced this model, it sold out quickly, so we’re bringing it back for everyone to have another shot at getting it. The GUS-600NT and GUS-200 have been updated with a modified body shape that allows better access to the highest frets, along with new fingerboard inlays. The affordable GUS-200 is now being offered in a Black Cherry finish.

CLICK TO ENLARGE...Updated/Reissued LTD Gus G Signature Series

LTD 330 Series Basses: Quality. Reliability. Versatility.
The new 330 Series isn’t just for guitarists. The new B-334 and B-335 basses take the same concept of offering way more bass than you’d expect for the price tag, with new ESP-designed and manufactured active pickups and EQ. They all employ comfortable ash bodies and 5-piece maple/rosewood necks, with 24-fret rosewood fingerboards as well. As their names imply, the B-334 is a 4-string model, while the B-335 offers five strings. Either way, you get three open-pore finishes to choose from, all of which help highlight the ash grain of the bodies (Stain Black, Stain Brown, and Stain Red).

CLICK TO ENLARGE...LTD 330 Series Basses

LTD Basses Get Exotic Too
Sure, we used a bunch of exotic woods for our new LTD Xtone acoustic models, but what about our new basses? Don’t they deserve some exotic love too?

They sure do, which is why we’re happy to introduce the new B-4B, B-4Z, B-204BM, B-204SM-FL, and B-205SM-FL. The B-4B and B-4Z take our highly-acclaimed B-4 bass, and add Bubinga and Zebrawood tops for a fantastically distinctive look. These basses also have high-end features like ebony fingerboards, mahogany bodies, and 5-piece maple/rosewood necks with a neck-through-body design.

The new additions to our 200-Series basses also add some exotic flavor to the LTD line. The B-204BM has a top of burled maple to complement its mahogany body, with a Natural Satin finish. The bass also adds ESP SB-4 pickups and ESP ABQ-3 three-band active EQ. For those of you who have been asking us for an affordable, high-performance fretless bass, the new LTD B-204SM-FL and B-205SM-FL feature spalted maple tops over their ash bodies, with ESP SB-4 and SB-5 pickups respectively, as well as 3-band active EQ.

CLICK TO ENLARGE...LTD B4-B and B-4Z

CLICK TO ENLARGE...LTD B-204BM, LTD B-204SM-FL, LTD B-205SM-FL

More information on all of our new Spring 2011 offerings will soon be available at espguitars.com!

ESP helps Ronnie James Dio "Stand Up & Shout" Cancer Fund

2011-03-09T13:38:00.000-08:00

Jaab the elephant paints an LTD EC Model guitar at the Elephant Art & Conservation Project in Chiang Mai, Thailand (Photo by Mark Weiss)

The Ronnie James Dio Stand Up & Shout Cancer Fund has teamed with The Asian Elephant Art & Conservation Project (AEACP) to create one-of-a-kind guitars painted by the project's elephants in Thailand to raise money and awareness for both organizations. Wendy Dio, president and founder of Stand Up & Shout, board chair Gloria Butler and medical director Dr. Sandeep Kapoor, along with legendary Black Sabbath/Heaven and Hell bassist Geezer Butler and world-renowned photographer Mark Weiss, are currently in Chiang Mai, Thailand, home to the AEACP, where the guitars are being painted.

The talented elephants of the Asian Elephant Art & Conservation Project, whose paintings are now exhibited and sold in museums and galleries around the world and have been featured in National Geographic, are painting guitars graciously donated by The ESP Guitar Company. These painted guitars will be auctioned off with half of the proceeds going to AEACP and the other half going to SUAS.

From left: Dr. Sandeep Kapoor, Geezer Butler, Wendy Dio, and Gloria Butler of the Ronnie James Dio Stand Up & Shout Cancer Fund in Chiang Mai, Thailand (Photo by Mark Weiss)

The Ronnie James Dio Stand Up and Shout Cancer Fund is a privately funded nonprofit organization dedicated to cancer prevention, research and education. It was founded in memory of the late singer who died in 2010. The organization is collecting additional guitars donated by celebrated musicians for a larger fund-raising auction later this year with 100% of the $$$ going to The Ronnie James Dio Stand Up And Shout Cancer Fund. Some of the artist autographed guitars already include, Metallica, Slash, Aerosmith, Dream Theatre, Kip Winger, Bill Sheehan, Geddy Lee, As I Lay Dying, Brian May, Cannibal Corpse, Lizzy Borden, Slayer, Tom Morello, No Doubt, Lit, In This Moment, GWAR, Bon Jovi and more!!!

The AEACP is dedicated to saving the diminishing number of Asian Elephants and to raise public awareness of the plight of Asian Elephants. National Thai Elephant Day annually celebrates the importance of elephants a part of Thai culture and as part of their environment. Currently, there are between 3,000 and 4,000 elephants living in Thailand, half of which are domesticated.

For additional information on the Ronnie James Dio Stand Up and Shout Cancer Fund, please visit: http://www.ronniejamesdio.com/

For more information on the Elephant Art & Conservation Project, please visit: www.elephantart.com

"ESP Guitar Experience" iPhone app update v1.3

2011-01-25T09:37:00.000-08:00

It's the gift that keeps on giving... the "ESP Guitar Experience" iPhone app!

Free for all current owners (and just $1.99 USD for new buyers), version 1.3 of the "ESP Guitar Experience" iPhone app is out now! V1.3 includes new exclusive behind-the-scenes videos with Padge/Bullet For My Valentine) and Alexi Laiho (Children of Bodom), as well as updated information on the new ESP/LTD Signature Series guitars we just announced at NAMM. As if that weren't enough, the update includes a new music video from Ozzy Osbourne (featuring ESP player Gus G.) for "Life Won't Wait".

That's just the new stuff... there's much, much more. The “ESP Guitar Experience” is a mobile device application that includes a variety of helpful and interesting content for all fans of ESP’s guitars and basses. Features include:

• A professional chromatic tuner for guitar and bass
• An ESP dealer/distributor locator
• Information on the ESP and LTD line of guitars and basses
• In partnership with Rock House Method, a free series of lessons from ESP artists such as Alexi Laiho, Gus G, Bruce Kulick, Prashant Aswani, Dan Jacobs, Michael Paget and Rob Arnold
• The “Tech Corner”, with videos on topics like truss rod adjustment and restringing from ESP's head designer

Get It Now!
More information on the “ESP Guitar Experience” app can be found at espguitars.com, and the app may be purchased directly via the Apple app store. The app is currently available for iPhone, iPod Touch, and iPad using OS 3.0 or higher.

NAMM 2011: ESP Artist Appearances

2011-01-04T13:12:00.000-08:00

We've got a great NAMM show ready to roll starting Thursday January 13 through Sunday January 16, and we're especially happy about our list of ESP artists who will be doing singings at our demo room (Room 213D upstairs, same as the last few years).

SATURDAY 1/15, 1PM:

• Alexi Laiho (Children of Bodom)
• George Lynch (Lynch Mob/Souls of We)
• Max Cavalera (Soulfly/Cavalera Conspiracy)
• Michael Wilton (Queensrÿche)
• Stef Carpenter (Deftones)

SATURDAY 1/15, 3PM:

• Jeff Hanneman (Slayer)

Freakin' Awesome! What Else?
As we revealed yesterday, we have a batch of killer new guitars to show you, plus our usual gallery of amazing custom guitars. We'll also have some amazing demo players who will show off the sound and fury of ESP and LTD. They'll be performing throughout most of the entire show.

PLEASE REMEMBER: the NAMM Show is a trade-only convention, which means that you can't just show up and buy tickets to get in. If you don't have a 2011 NAMM badge by now, chances are you're not going to get in this year. ALSO: the security people check your badge name against your ID card each time you walk in or out of the convention halls, so your badge must be legitimate.

But that having been said, if you're already planning on being at NAMM, ESP is going to be the hot spot! We'll see you there next week!

New ESP and LTD Models for 2011!

2011-01-03T17:33:00.000-08:00

Welcome to 2011. We may not have flying cars just yet, but here at ESP, we do have a batch of insanely cool new guitars and basses for you to check out!

New Signature Series Models from Metallica’s Guitarists
First, take a look at two brand new guitar models from Metallica’s James Hetfield and Kirk Hammett.

Click photo to enlarge.

Your eyes aren’t deceiving you. The James Hetfield Snakebyte is a brand new body style for ESP and LTD in 2011. It has a set-neck construction at 24.75” scale, with a mahogany body and neck, and an ebony fingerboard with 22 XJ frets. The Snakebyte comes with a bunch of high-end components, including Sperzel locking tuners, Schaller straplocks, a Tonepros locking bridge/tailpiece, and EMG 81 (bridge) / EMG 60 (neck) active pickups. You can get the James Hetfield Snakebyte both in ESP and LTD versions, and both are available in two finishes: Black and Snow White, featuring a pearloid snake inlay on the fingerboard.

Another limited edition Kirk Hammett Signature Series model is also being introduced in 2011. The ESP KH-2 SE and LTD KH-SE are special edition guitars that will be limited to just 100 and 300 pieces worldwide respectively. Highlighted by a brilliant Metallic Greenburst finish, the ESP KH-2 SE offers neck-thru-body construction, a 25.5” scale, an alder body, and maple neck with rosewood fingerboard, 24 XJ frets (with frets 17-24 scalloped), and green pearloid skull inlays. Other high-performance features include Gotoh tuners, EMG 81 (bridge) / EMG 60 (neck) active pickups, and an original Floyd Rose bridge. The LTD KH-SE has a bolt-on maple neck, a basswood body, ESP tuners and pickups, and a Floyd Rose Special bridge.

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SLAYER-2011: 25th Anniversary “Reign in Blood” Guitar!
Back in 1986, Slayer released their landmark album Reign in Blood that helped shape the sound of metal for decades to come. 25 years later, it’s high time to give that album the credit it’s due, and ESP is doing just that with the limited-edition Slayer-2011 guitar.

Click photo to enlarge.

Limited to just 250 guitars worldwide, the LTD Slayer-2011 is highlighted with a custom graphic finish that employs elements of the cover artwork from the Reign in Blood album. Details include a special LTD headstock logo in Slayer’s distinctive typeface, pentagram-shaped neck inlays, and the Slayer logo inlaid near the 12th fret. The guitar uses bolt-on construction, an alder body, a maple neck with rosewood fingerboard, 24 XJ frets, a TOM bridge with string-thru-body design, and EMG 81 (bridge) and EMG 85 (neck) active pickups.

DevilDriver Gets Signature Models!
Mike Speitzer and Jeff Kendrick of DevilDriver have been long-time ESP players, and we’re proud to offer the new LTD MS-1 (Spreitzer) and LTD JK-1 (Kendrick) models in 2011. The MS-1 is a asymmetrical V-shaped guitar in a maroon sunburst finish. It offers neck-thru-body construction with a mahogany body and neck (ebony fingerboard), and features EMG 81 active pickups. The JK-1 is based on our EC shape, and comes in a dark see-thru blue finish. It also has neck-thru construction, with a mahogany body (flamed maple top), maple neck, and ebony fingerboard, and also has two EMG 81’s to rock your world. Both guitars have a DevilDriver logo inlay at the 12th fret.

Click photo to enlarge.

To the Max!
Another guy who’s been playing ESPs for a long time, Max Cavalera (Soulfly/Cavalera Conspiracy) has new signature models. The ESP Max Cavalera EX looks great in its urban camo finish, and has all the features Max specified for his latest ESP axe (mahogany body, maple neck, rosewood fingerboard, Gotoh tuners, Schaller straplocks, and Seymour Duncan Distortion pickups). We’ve also released the LTD Max-200, the most affordable Max Cavalera model to date. It’s available in snow white and gives a lot of bang for the buck!

Click photo to enlarge.

More 200-Series Signatures
Continuing our goal of providing excellent guitars for everyone, LTD has also introduced more 200-Series models that are affordable for any musician on a budget. George Lynch, who’s been playing ESPs longer than 99% of people ever heard of ESP, has a new Signature Series model, the LTD GL-200K (with a graphic finish based on his well-known ESP Kamikaze model). For those of you who want to venture into the zone of 8-strings, the LTD SC-208 is a new standard-scale 8-string model from Deftones’ Stephen Carpenter. There’s also a new 200-Series version of Michael Paget’s (Bullet for My Valentine) v-shaped model, the LTD MP-200.

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New LTD Deluxe and Standard Guitars
We feel some of the newest LTD Deluxe and Standard models are among the best we’ve ever made. Let’s see if you agree.

The LTD Deluxe EC-1000T/CTM has that custom look that you’ve probably cherished. It’s a classic single-cutaway mahogany guitar with a traditional body shape, and is available in two finishes: Snow White and Black, with binding on the top and back of the body. Also, after many requests you’ve sent, we’re happy to offer two new H-Series models, the LTD H-1007 and LTD H-1007FR. Both guitars are 7-string versions of our outstanding H-Series guitars, with the H-1007FR also including a Floyd Rose bridge.

Click photo to enlarge.

Click photo to enlarge.

If you want a more traditional shape in a high-performance LTD guitar, try out the LTD TE-202. It draws from designs including ESP’s Ron Wood Signature model, and is available in two pre-distressed finishes: Three Tone Burst with a rosewood fingerboard, and Black with a maple fingerboard. Also new are the LTD EX-401FM (See-Thru Black) and LTD V-401FM (See-Thru Black and See-Thru Black Cherry).

Click photo to enlarge.

Additionally, a number of current LTD models have also been updated with new finishes. Check with your local ESP/LTD dealer to see what’s new!

LTD Xtone Acoustics!
Yes, you read it correctly. After years and years of our customers asking us to take the high-performance look and feel of our electric models and make equally cool acoustics, we’ve delivered in droves. The LTD Xtone AC-5E, AC-10E, AC-20E, and AC-30E will soon be available at ESP dealers.

Click photo to enlarge.

All of the new LTD Xtone Series acoustic-electric models are designed with a highly-playable cutaway mini-jumbo shape. The AC-5E offers a spruce top with mahogany back and side materials, and offers a built-in ESP preamp with EQ and tuner. Finishes for the AC-5E include See-Thru Black Sunburst, See-Thru Blue Sunburst, and See-Thru Red Sunburst. The AC-10E adds accoutrements such as block pearloid/abalone inlays, abalone purfling, abalone rosette, and white binding on the body, neck, and headstock, and is available in Black, Pearl White, and Tobacco Sunburst finishes.

The AC-20E and AC-30E both take another step up by implementing a B-Band Transducer pickup and onboard preamp. The AC-20E is equipped with a T-35 preamp w/EQ and tuner. This guitar features an attractive flamed maple body top, along with sapelle back and sides. Available finishes for the AC-20E include See-Thru Blue, See-Thru Magenta, and See-Thru Green. The AC-30E is highlighted by a beautiful quilted maple top, back and sides. It includes a B-Band T-55 preamp w/EQ and tuner, and is being offered with three finishes: Honey Natural, Dark Brown Sunburst, and See-Thru Red.

Bassists: We Didn’t Forget You
Our highly-respected LTD SURVEYOR line has significantly improved with the introduction of the new SURVEYOR-4 and SURVEYOR-5. These basses (4- and 5-string, respectively) offer a classic design with bolt-on construction at 34” scale, and an ash body with maple neck. The new models add white binding on the fingerboard and pearloid block inlays. The basses are available in three finishes: Black and Three Tone Burst (with rosewood fingerboards) and Snow White (with maple fingerboard).

Click photo to enlarge.

Welcome to 2011... with ESP!
As usual, more details and photos of our new models will be available soon right here at espguitars.com. In the meantime, the best way to get more info on our newest offerings is to visit your ESP/LTD dealer and try one out for yourself!

ESP Congratulates 2010 GRAMMY nominees

2010-12-06T12:01:00.000-08:00

Once again, the list of GRAMMY nominees is out, and once again, we're proud to see a number of ESP players on the list.

First up, in category 6 (Best Male Pop Vocal Performance), Adam Lambert got the nomination for his song "Whataya Want From Me", off his album For Your Entertainment (RCA Records / 19 Recordings LLC). You may not be aware that Adam's bassist, Tommy Ratliff, has been part of the ESP family for a couple of years, and has been taking his ESP Phoenix-II bass out on tours with Adam. Congrats to the whole band!

In category 17 (Best Hard Rock Performance), you'll find a couple of well-known ESP players. First, the Prince of Darkness himself, Ozzy Osbourne, has been nominated for the track "Let Me Hear You Scream" from the album Scream (Epic). Unless you've been stranded on a moon of Jupiter for the last couple of years, you already know that long-time ESP player Gus G. is Ozzy's guitarist, and did both the recording of Scream as well as played with Ozzy at the recent OzzFest tour and continues touring with Ozzy even now. Additionally, keyboardist/rhythm guitarist Adam Wakeman is another part of the Ozzy team who's part of the ESP family. Hats off to Gus, Adam, and of course the Godfather of Metal himself.

In the same category, 2010 saw a big (and welcome) return for Alice in Chains. Their song "A Looking In View" off the album Black Gives Way to Blue (Virgin Records) was also nominated. Singer and guitarist William DuVall is an ESP player, and has been seen with his Phoenix-II guitar on tour this year.

Category 18 (Best Metal Performance) is usually a hotspot for ESP players, and this year is no exception. ESP signature artist and Lamb of God member Willie Adler rocked the hell out of their latest album, Wrath (Epic), and the GRAMMY people gave them the nod for the song "In Your Words". Congrats to Willie and the rest of LoG.

Last but never least, it seems the folks who run the GRAMMIES have recognized the immense influence of Slayer for the past few years... they've received a good number of nominations and victories lately. This year, the title track from World Painted Blood (Columbia Records/American Records) got the nomination. ESP players Jeff Hanneman and Tom Araya have been part of Slayer since the beginning. Congrats, guys! Here's hoping Slayer makes it big someday.

We'll all have to wait until the GRAMMY Awards are held on February 13, 2011, to see who the victors are. But just getting a nomination is a huge honor, and we're proud to be associated with these great artists, regardless of who takes home the gold!

Stef Carpenter (Deftones) gets shot at ESP!

2010-11-09T13:13:00.001-08:00

It's that time of year again... getting ready to announce a bunch of new ESP and LTD guitars and basses for 2011. One step in this process is to get new photos of our ESP artists with their new Signature Series models. Today, we enjoyed the company of the one and only Stef Carpenter of the Deftones, who was very patient and gracious while we took pics. We can't tell you very much about his new signature guitar, but we can tell you that he has the whitest teeth of anyone in the world of rock. Seriously.

UPDATED! Check out the new ESP smart phone app!

2010-11-02T10:01:00.000-07:00

Two reasons to get the new ESP smart phone application now:

1. We just added a ton of cool new stuff.
2. For a limited time, it's just $1.99!

GET IT NOW!

ESP Guitar Experience Keeps Getting Better!
The update is free to all current users, and its new features will automatically appear in the app. To encourage new users to try out the app, between now and December 31, 2010, the app (regularly $2.99 USD) will be available at special sale pricing for only $1.99 in the USA (similar price reductions will be reflected in other territories).

The “ESP Guitar Experience” is a mobile device application that includes a variety of helpful and interesting content for all fans of ESP’s guitars and basses. The new update for the app adds even more exclusive lessons, guitar maintenance tips, and more. With this update, you'll get some great tools for being a better musician...

• In partnership with Rock House Method, we're giving you a series of lessons from ESP artists such as Alexi Laiho, Gus G, Bruce Kulick, Prashant Aswani, Dan Jacobs, Michael Paget and Rob Arnold.

• Exclusive new interviews and recent live/studio footage with ESP artists including Alexi Laiho (Children Of Bodom) and more, with new footage being added regularly.

• The “Tech Corner”, with videos on topics like truss rod adjustment and restringing from ESP's head designer.

• Don't forget... other features of the “ESP Guitar Experience” app include professional chromatic tuner for guitar and bass, an ESP dealer/distributor locator, information on the ESP and LTD line of guitars and basses, and more.

Thinking it Through with Brainmask
The app was developed for ESP by Brainmask, a leading design firm in smart phone software development who have specialized in apps for the music, film, and sports industries. “We are very happy with the results of the ESP Guitar Experience app and the work of Brainmask,” says Allen Steelgrave, ESP Director of Marketing and Artist Relations. “We know how many of our customers rely on smart devices, and the app delivers information and tools they can really use, wherever they go.”

The newly updated (and lower-priced) app is available as of October 31, 2010. More information on the “ESP Guitar Experience” app can be found at espguitars.com, and the app may be purchased directly via the Apple app store. The app is currently available for iPhone, iPod Touch, and iPad using OS 3.0 or higher. Compatibility for other devices... coming soon!

Get the "ESP Guitar Experience" for iPhone/iPod Touch/iPad now!

Here's where you pull up your ESP app on your iPhone.

Info on ESP's artists with Signature Series ESP and LTD models.

The main "Lessons" area, with brand new lessons from your favorite artists, via Rock House Method.

Here's an Alexi Laiho lesson...

... or how about learning some licks from Gus G.?.

Our chief product designer is right here in your ESP App, telling you how to properly restring, make truss rod adjustments, and more.

With the ESP Guitar Experience app, even at just $1.99 USD, you get all sorts of exclusive content at no extra charge.

DevilDriver Visits ESP HQ

2010-11-01T17:49:00.000-07:00

Our good friends Mike Spreitzer, Jeff Kendrick, and Jon Miller from DevilDriver stopped by the ESP headquarters in North Hollywood, CA today. They were there being photographed for the 2011 ESP catalog. Here are a couple of sneaky pics our stealthy marketing assistant snapped...

Show report: Slayer at Universal (10.21.10)

2010-10-22T11:39:00.000-07:00

As you know, Slayer members Tom Araya and Jeff Hanneman are both long-time ESP players. You can see Tom's signature basses here, and Jeff's signature ESP and LTD guitars here. The ESP Team was out in full force at last night's Slayer show at Universal, here in Los Angeles. Our intrepid reporter, ESP marketing assistant Mario Rubio, wrote up a full report from his viewpoint on the show. Here it is!

Last night, I went to go see Slayer at the Gibson Amphitheatre. I've seen Slayer many times, but this was not like any other Slayer show I've ever been to. Tonight, they played Seasons in the Abyss in its entirety, celebrating the album's 20th year anniversary. Standing in line waiting to go into the venue, you could hear the rabid fans screaming "SLAYER!!" at the top of their lungs, which is typical at every Slayer concert you go to. I hung out and met up with some friends as we all patiently waited for the band to go on.

So, the time finally came, and Slayer started out with the intro and title track of their new album, "World Painted Blood". As soon as Tom, Jeff, Kerry, and Dave went onstage and started playing, the crowd went insane! The pits broke out, with fans rushing down the aisles, literally shoving the security guards aside in their attempts to get into the pit. It was total havok, like most Slayer concerts!

After "World Painted Blood", they went into "Hate Worldwide", another track from their latest album (and one that was nominated for a Grammy award this year). But then came the moment we'd all been waiting for: Slayer playing Seasons in the Abyss from start to finish. As Tom greeted the crowd, he let them know that tonight was the last night of the tour. He then asked the crowd, "Are you ready for war?!?!?!", and then screamed "WAR ENSEMBLE!". The whole crowd went nuts, and I started headbanging like no tomorrow, singing along to the song; "War Ensemble" is one of my favorite Slayer songs ever. It brought back memories, as my first concert ever was seeing Slayer at the very same venue in 2003.

As the night continued, the set was just completely awesome. Fast forwarding to the last song of the album ("Seasons in the Abyss"), it was a complete treat to see Slayer play this album live as it is a really important album to Slayer's career. Seasons in the Abyss had so much groove in it, but it's also very thrashy. Even then, the night was far from over. Slayer came back and played "South of Heaven", then went into "Raining Blood". Then, to my surprise, they played "Aggressive Perfector", which they very rarely perform live. Watching them play this song was a huge highlight of the night for me.

Slayer ended the night with one of their all time classic hits: "Angel Of Death". The whole crowd was headbanging and singing along. As Slayer left the stage, you could hear the crowd do the "Slayer Chant". I have to say it was one of the best Slayer shows I've ever been to.

October 21, 2010 Set List:

World Painted blood
Hate Worldwide
War Ensemble
Blood Red
Spirit In Black
Expendable Youth
Dead Skin Mask
Hallowed Point
Skeletons Of Society
Temptation
Born Of Fire
Seasons In the Abyss
South of Heaven
Raining Blood
Aggressive Perfector
Angel Of Death

Eternal Descent: The comic book series w/ESP Artists!

2010-10-05T12:57:00.000-07:00

Created by graphic artist and musician Llexi Leon, Eternal Descent is an epic comic series that features characters of several of ESP Guitars’ most popular artists, including Dan Jacobs and Travis Miguel of Atreyu, Doc Coyle of God Forbid, Wayne Static, and others.

In the latest issue...
A super-powered nemesis takes on heroes Lyra and Sirian. Who is this fearsome beast? None other than Wayne Static of Static-X, whose song "Electric Pulse" inspired the amazing sequence!

Enter the Eternal Descent Sweepstakes!
For each issue of Eternal Descent that features ESP artists, we're giving away a guitar or bass to one lucky winner. This issue, you can get a shot at winning the LTD Signature Series Static-600!

You can get more info and enter for a chance to win at http://www.espguitars.com/eternaldescent.html !

Children of Bodom visits Mother's Music

2010-09-30T12:54:00.000-07:00

Oh Canada, how lucky you are... at least if you were one of the people who got to meet-and-greet Children of Bodom's Alexi Laiho, Henkka T. Blacksmith, and Roope Latvala, who were at Mother's Music in Edmonton on behalf of ESP Guitars last week!

Below are some shots that we were sent from the in-store event. Enjoy!

Support music education with ESP and Bids for Kids!

2010-09-24T10:46:00.000-07:00

VISIT BIDS FOR KIDS EBAY AUCTION NOW!

It’s not easy being a kid who wants to play music these days.

It wasn’t very long ago that all kids were provided a chance to learn music in school. But today, many school districts have been forced to eliminate music entirely from their curriculum. Beyond simple band and orchestra classes, the budget cutbacks have also taken away the joy of music therapy for physically and/or mentally disabled kids.

ESP believes that music makes the world a better place in which to live. That’s why we’ve hooked up with Bids for Kids, an organization that raises funds for music education through online and offline auctions. The funds are used to get musical instruments into various music education programs that give more people the opportunity to make music.

Here in Southern California -- where ESP is based in the USA -- the Los Angeles Unified School District (the second largest district in the nation, serving over 700,000 students) is planning to eliminate 100% of their music/arts teachers by 2012. If these music programs aren’t funded by the district, it requires all of us to come together to either support the schools’ programs or support the community based programs that are forming in response. Bids for Kids is one of the few fundraising programs that helps these community based organizations.

Clicking the link below, you can visit an eBay auction for a number of our LTD Stef Carpenter Signature Series SC-200 guitars. While getting a great deal on a cool guitar, you can also feel good knowing that 100% of the funds will go to Bids for Kids, and you’ll be giving back something to future generations of children who will learn to love music like you do. From them and from us, thank you for your help!

VISIT BIDS FOR KIDS EBAY AUCTION NOW!

ESP at Musicians Institute Career Day

2010-09-22T13:40:00.000-07:00

We’ve mentioned this many times before, but it’s worth saying again: ESP supports high-quality music education, and here near our headquarters in the Los Angeles area, the best real world music training comes from Musicians Institute. That’s why we were happy to set up a small booth at MI’s Career Day 2010, and let the current crop of students know more about working in the musical instrumental manufacturing industry.

What does musicianship have to do with working somewhere like ESP? Trust us: everyone here has a background as a musician. We’ve all played in bands, all done gigs on stages of various sizes. How else would we know what guitar and bass players really need from their instruments? When we bring in new staff members, we often look for people who not only have the skills they need to do their job, but we also will prioritize people who have a background and education in music... and we know that MI grads will be among the cream of the crop.

That’s why on Wednesday September 15, we were there at MI in the middle of Hollywood, talking to students who may want to pursue a career in our business. It was a fun affair with many different sectors of the music industry represented. Studios looking for audio engineers, film production companies wanting a fresh crop of scoring composers... even the military, who were looking for “a few good men” (and women) who wanted to perform for the troops abroad. Enjoy our pics below!

ESP Director of Marketing and Artist Relations Allen Steelgrave gets set up for career day at MI.

Lots of MI students gathered in this courtyard area, browsing around different tables for various career choices.

Of course, everyone wanted to meet Team ESP.

ESP Marketing Assistant (and former MI student) Mario Rubio mans the table.

An LTD Deluxe B-1005 and an ESP M-II grabbed their share of attention while people cruised by.

MI students gather around, checking their raffle ticket numbers to see if they were going to go home with a new guitar.

Another hopeful entrant in our raffle for a free guitar.

Well, he didn’t get the guitar, but a free ESP custom skateboard deck is a pretty cool consolation prize!

I won! I won!

The proud winner of our raffle. He took home a brand new LTD Deluxe Viper-1000. Sweet!

ESP Experience iPhone App Now Available!

2010-08-31T07:47:00.000-07:00

Hey iPhone users... the moment you’ve awaited is here. Commissioned by ESP Guitars and built by Brainmask, the “ESP Experience” iPhone app is available now.

The ESP Experience app is literally a complete experience with ESP/LTD guitars and basses, including everything but playing the instruments! It includes:

• A professional chromatic tuner for guitar and bass.
• Exclusive ESP content that will be updated often. These exclusive features include ESP artist interviews, ESP event coverage, free music downloads from ESP artists, tech tips from ESP’s head of guitar and bass design, a complete dealer locator, and more.
• An ESP Artist section with videos, lessons, and more.
• A full catalog of ESP and LTD guitars and basses.

All of our artists who have ESP/LTD Signature Series models are represented in the ESP Experience iPhone app.

A complete catalog of ESP and LTD guitars and basses is included.

An accurate chromatic tuner is worth the price of admission on its own!

Right from the start, you get plenty of added value from the ESP Experience app. You get a free Metallica song download code (sent to you from ESP after you get the app), and an exclusive guitar lesson from ESP artist Gus G. (Ozzy/Firewind) that’s only offered via this app!

The ESP Experience iPhone app is available right now from the iPhone App Store. It’s compatible with iPhone, iPod Touch, and iPad, and requires iPhone OS 3.0 or above. Get it now from the App Store or just visit http://itunes.com/apps/espexperience.

ESP Visits Comic-Con 2010

2010-08-17T17:10:00.000-07:00

Sorry for the tardiness of this report; we're a little busy at the moment doing near-constant coverage of OZZFest 2010. But before we got ready to tour around the country, we stopped by San Diego for the 2010 Comic-Con.

You may be asking yourself, "Self, what was ESP doing at Comic-Con, other than just skipping work for a day?" Well, we can't lie: spending a beautiful Friday in San Diego isn't a bad way to kick off the weekend. But we had a good reason to be there. A few of them, actually.

When Comic-Con was started back in the early '70s, it was pretty simple: a convention for people who made and enjoyed comic books and cartoons. Easy enough. But over the years, Comic-Con has become a monster; the past few years have seen the attendance balloon to the maximum allowed at the San Diego Convention Center (around 125,000 people). You also have huge exhibits from TV and movie studios, with appearances by a plethora of Hollywood celebs.

But again, what what we doing there? Well, for one thing, our friends at Activision (for whom we've provided ESP models for the Guitar Hero franchise development) were there with a load of hot new games. Our education partner Musicians Institute was also present. However, our biggest reason for attending Comic-Con was to see our friend Llexi Leon, founder of the Eternal Descent comic series, who was doing his first big signing appearance at the industry's biggest convention.

We'll let the photos speak for themselves. Until next year, we'd like to thank Llexi as well as ESP friends Nuclear Blast Records and JSR Merchandising for getting us into the show!

ESP's Mark Mah with one of the folks from Musicians Institute. Hey, someone has to teach people how to score music for movies and video games, right?

And while they write all that killer music, they should do it on an ESP or LTD.

The creator of the Eternal Descent comic series (which features ESP artists) Llexi Leon with our Mark Mah.

Llexi spent the day signing autographs. Note the custom graphic LTD Eternal Descent guitar with him. Sweet!

And more signing.

And more signing. Between playing guitar, drawing epic comic books, and signing his name 100,000 times, Llexi's going to need replacement hands soon enough.

Limited Edition Slayer Box Set... on vinyl!

2010-08-16T15:04:00.000-07:00

You're shortly going to realize something about us: we're old! Well, not too old to rock, of course, but old enough to remember the sweet sound of dropping the needle on a fresh vinyl LP record. While all of us at ESP understand that digital music (in both CD and audio file forms) are convenient, there's really no sound as great for listening to music as vinyl.

Apparently, we're not alone in this opinion. Slayer is releasing ten American Records albums in a limited edition high-end box set called "The Vinyl Conflict", and as the name implies, the entire set is being offered on vinyl! What Slayer albums can you enjoy on your turntable starting October 12? How about these...

• Reign in Blood (1986)
• South of Heaven (1988)
• Seasons In The Abyss (1990)
• Live Decade of Aggression (1991)
• Divine Intervention (1994)
• Undisputed Attitude (1996)
• Diabolus in Musica (1998)
• God Hates Us All (2001)
• Christ Illusion (2006)
• World Painted Blood (2009)

By the way, these aren't just crappy records that the label threw together. All of the albums were re-mastered from original analog recordings and then pressed on the finest 180-gram audiophile vinyl. You also get all the original artwork in its full glory, with the albums packaged in a collector's quality hardcover slipcase. Almost none of these albums have been available on vinyl in years, so this is a real treat for true metal lovers and Slayer fans.

As you probably already know, Slayer is pretty busy at the moment; they're co-headlining the "American Carnage" tour along with Megadeth through early September. As if that weren't enough, Slayer's three live DVDs ("Live Intrusion", "War At The Warfield", and "Still Reigning") are coming out this week.

As usual, we'll end this post by screaming SLAYER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Have a nice day.

ESP Guitars: The Official Guitar Sponsor of OZZFest 2010

2010-08-04T10:32:00.000-07:00

Surprised? We doubt it. After all, OZZFest is the biggest metal spectacle of the summer, and youʼve already seen Ozzyʼs new guitarist Gus G. slinging his ESP on stages and in the latest Ozzy videos. Weʼre very proud to have this partnership with the Prince of Darkness!

You also probably know everything about OZZfest, but in case youʼve been living on the outer rings of Saturn for the last 15 years or so (or just need a refresher course), hereʼs some background on what OZZFest is and how it came about.

The History of OZZFest
Back in 1996, an alternative music festival called Lollapalooza was a big deal. However, the organizers of that show made a huge mistake when they didnʼt allow Ozzy to join the tour. Proving once again that itʼs never a good idea to turn down a metal legend, Ozzy and his lovely wife Sharon decided to host a festival of their own, focusing on the hardest and heaviest bands around.

The first OZZFest was not a tour... just a two-day festival show held in Phoenix, AZ and Devore, CA in fall 1996. But the reaction from the metal community immediately proved Ozzy and Sharon right: people wanted to see their heroes of heavy music ripping it up live in person. OZZFest became an annual event, and in years since often ranked among each yearʼs top tours. Theyʼve even held a “Battle for OZZFest” show where bands competed for a spot on the bill.

Back to the Now
This yearʼs OZZFest will prove to be among the best ever. It would be worth the price of admission if only to see the two main headliners: Ozzy Osbourne and Motley Crüe. But sharing the main stage of OZZFest are also bands including Halford, Nonpoint, and DevilDriver (featuring ESP players Jeff Kendrick, Jonathan Miller, and Mike Spreitzer).

The Monster Energy Second Stage has a collection of cool bands as well. In fact, Zakk Wylde along with Black Label Society will be rocking there, along with bands like Drowning Pool, Kingdom of Sorrow (with ESP player Kirk Windstein), Goatwhore (including ESP players James Harvey and Sammy Duet), Skeletonwitch, Saviors, Kataklysm, California Wildebeest, and Exodus (with ESP player Lee Altus). Note that not all bands will perform at all dates, so check the official schedule and get your tickets at ozzfest.com/tourdates!

Where and When
Speaking of schedules, hereʼs the latest news on OZZFest dates:

08.14.2010: Devore, CA (San Manuel Amphitheater)
08.17.2010: Tinley Park, IL (First Midwest Bank Amphitheater)
08.19.2010: Burgettstown, PA (First Niagara Pavilion)
08.21.2010: Hartford, CT (Comcast Theater)
08.22.2010: Camden, NJ (Susquehanna Bank Center)
08.24.2010: Mansfield, MA (Comcast Center)
09.18.2010: London, UK (02 Arena)
09.28.2010: Tel Aviv, Israel (HaYarkon Park)

For the most up-to-date news on everything OZZFest, just go to ozzfest.com. And keep an eye out for your friendly ESP people at the shows! Weʼll be there!

Only one day left: ESP/Live Nation OZZFest 2010 Sweepstakes!

2010-07-29T15:01:00.000-07:00

JUST ONE DAY LEFT in the ESP/Live Nation flyaway sweepstakes to see the opening show of OZZFest! Enter by Saturday July 30 at noon for a chance for you and a friend to win roundtrip airfare, hotel, Affliction merchandise, VIP tickets and a limo ride to the show on August 14 in California, and more... including your own LTD Gus G Signature Series guitar, $500 spending cash, a signed copy of Ozzy's new album SCREAM, and a meet-and-greet with members of Ozzy's band!

To enter, text OZZWIN to 404040. Do it now!

Legal Stuff: You may be charged text and data rates for the text messages sent and received from your handset according to the terms in your Wireless Calling Plan. Text Messaging and wireless service are not available in all areas.

"Behind the Player" DVDs with ESP artists

2010-07-28T16:37:00.000-07:00

There's nothing wrong with learning how to be a better guitarist, and a new DVD series might help you on that path. Alfred Music Publishing has released a collection of "Behind the Player" DVDs from IMV that include such ESP players as Galder and Silenoz from Dimmu Borgir, Dan Jacobs of Atreyu, and the ever-amazing George Lynch.

In "Behind the Player: Dimmu Borgir", guitarists Galder and Silenoz bring you an intimate behind-the-scenes look at their lives as professional musicians, including rare photos and video footage. They also provide in-depth guitar lessons on how to play their songs "The Serpentine Offering" and "The Chosen Legacy". The VideoTab system shows exactly how Galder and Silenoz play their parts in the songs.

"Behind the Player: Dan Jacobs" is an up-close look at Atreyu's shredder, and his unique style and fresh approach to classic shredding. Dan gives in-depth lessons for how to play "Becoming the Bull" and "Falling Down" by Atreyu — then jams on those songs with Atreyu drummer Brandon Saller. The DVD also includes a behind-the-scenes look at Dan's life as a professional musician, talong with tab that shows exactly how to play his part in the two songs, and exclusive bonus features.

"Behind the Player: George Lynch" features the virtuoso guitar player from the bands Dokken, Lynch Mob, and Souls of We, and the unique melodic style and technical mastery that have influenced countless fans for decades. George gives in-depth lessons on how to play "Mr. Scary" and "Tooth and Nail" by Dokken, jamming on the songs with bassist James Lomenzo and drummer Ray Luzier. The DVD also includes an exclusive look at George's career as a professional musician, along with tabs and bonus features.

The "Behind the Player" DVDs by IMV are now available for $14.95 each, and are available at music stores or online at alfred.com/imv.

Metallica's Death Magnetic hits Double Platinum

2010-07-27T14:31:00.000-07:00

Metallica's ninth album, Death Magnetic, was released in September 2008, and it just crossed a major milestone: the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) officially certified it as "Double Platinum" this June. The "Double Platinum" award indicates sales in the United States of over two million copies.

Death Magnetic is the first Metallica studio album to feature bassist Robert Trujillo, and the first to be produced by Rick Rubin. Out of the starting gates, the album was a success, and was Metallica's fifth consecutive studio album to debut at number one on the Billboard 200 in the United States. That made them the first band ever to have five #1 albums in a row.

As all of you ESP fans know, both James Hetfield and Kirk Hammett are long-time users of ESP. Check out some of their ESP and LTD Signature Series models!

Kirk Hammett Signature Series Guitars

ESP Kirk Hammett KH-2 Vintage

ESP Kirk Hammett KH-2 NTB

ESP Kirk Hammett KH-2

LTD Kirk Hammett KH-602

LTD Kirk Hammett KH-202

LTD Kirk Hammett KH Junior

James Hetfield Signature Series Guitars

ESP James Hetfield Truckster

LTD James Hetfield Truckster

Lynch Mob on tour!

2010-07-26T09:49:00.000-07:00

George Lynch is one of the people who put ESP on the map. Back in the '80s, George was one of the first high-profile guitar gods to get behind ESP, and he's been a member of our family ever since.

Right now, his band Lynch Mob is headed out on tour, and if you want to see someone who is a true master of shred, you absolutely cannot miss this show. We guarantee your jaw will drop and your mind will be amazed at what George can do on a great guitar. Speaking of which, you should also take a look at the George Lynch ESP and LTD Signature Series guitars.

ESP George Lynch Kamikaze-1

ESP George Lynch M-1 Tiger

ESP George Lynch Skulls & Snakes

ESP George Lynch Sunburst Tiger

ESP George Lynch GL-56

LTD George Lynch GL-256

LTD George Lynch GL-200MT

Lynch Mob Tour Dates
As always, check the Lynch Mob site for the most updated tour dates and ticket info.

Jul 28 2010 8:00P
Altar Bar (With Michael Schenker Group)
Pittsburgh, PA

Jul 29 2010 8:00P
Starland Ballroom (With Michael Schenker Group)
Sayreville, NJ

Jul 30 2010 7:30P
Jaxx (With Michael Schenker Group)
Springfield, VA

Jul 31 2010 8:00P
The Filmore (With Michael Schenker Group)
New York, NY

Aug 1 2010 7:00P
Crazy Donkey (With Micheal Schenker Group)
Farmingdale, NY

Aug 2 2010 8:00P
ELEANOR RIGBY’S (With Michael Schenker Group)
Jermyn, PA

Aug 3 2010 8:00P
House of Blues (With Micheal Schenker Group)
Cleveland, OH

Aug 4 2010 8:00P
Scatz NightClub (with Michael Schenker Group)
Middleton, WI

Aug 6 2010 8:00P
Club Vegas (with Michael Schenker Group)
Salt Lake City, UT

Aug 7 2010 8:00P
The New Oasis
Sparks, NV

Aug 8 2010 8:00P
Tower Theatre (with Michael Schenker Group)
Fresno, CA

Aug 11 2010 8:00P
Studio Seven (with Michael Schenker Group)
Seattle, WA

Aug 12 2010 8:00P
Dante's (with Michael Schenker Group)
Portland, OR

Aug 13 2010 8:00P
Last Day Saloon (With Michael Schenker Group)
Santa Rosa, CA

Aug 14 2010 8:00P
Sky City Amphitheater (With Cinderella / Dokken / Winger / Gilby Clarke)
Pueblo of Acoma, NM

Sep 10 2010 7:00P
Manifesto Rock Bar
São Paulo - Centro, São Paulo, BRAZIL

Oct 30 2010 8:00P
Firefest
Nottingham, UNITED KINGDOM

Nov 2 2010 8:00P
Rock Bar Fans
Sofija, BULGARIA

Nov 3 2010 8:00P
A38 ship, Budapest,HU
Budapest, HUNGARY

Nov 6 2010 8:00P
DE BOSUIL
Weert, NETHERLANDS

Nov 7 2010 8:00P
Sala Heineken
Madrid, SPAIN

Nov 9 2010 8:00P
Sala Apolo 2
Barcelona, CT, SPAIN

Nov 10 2010 8:00P
Atelier
Luxembourg, LUXEMBOURG

Nov 11 2010 8:00P
Szene
Vienna, AUSTRIA

Nov 12 2010 8:00P
Rockfabrick
Pratteln, SWITZERLAND

Nov 14 2010 8:00P
MATRIOSKA
San Damaso, Modena, ITALY

Nov 18 2010 8:00P
Sticky Fingers
Gothenbord, SWEDEN

Nov 19 2010 8:00P
Sigurdsgatan 25
Vasteras, SWEDEN

Nov 20 2010 8:00P
Smuget
Oslo, NORWAY

ESP Winner's Circle: Sgt Nathan M. Halpin USMC

2010-07-19T09:24:00.000-07:00

Semper Fi, Sgt Halpin!

No matter what your political beliefs are, we can all agree that soldiers merit our highest level of respect. These men and women literally put their lives on the line to help defend their respective countries. There's no way to properly thank them for the jobs they do, which are difficult and dangerous even under the best of circumstances.

On Saturday July 10, we were doing what we often do: hanging out at a show where ESP artists were performing. This time, it was at the opening date of the Rockstar Mayhem Festival, at San Manuel Amphitheater in San Bernardino, CA. That evening, on a spur-of-the-moment whim, we decided to give away a guitar to an ESP fan, because we're cool like that. Now, when we hold contests and sweepstakes, the winners are truly random; we can't pick and choose who gets our gear and other prizes. But every once in awhile, a pretty special person is the lucky one, and that was definitely true this time.

The winner, who found our ESP rep at the show and answered a trivia question to take the prize, was Sgt Nathan M. Halpin of the United States Marine Corps. Nate is a big fan of Chimaira, a band which includes ESP players Rob Arnold and Matt DeVries. In doing so, he won an LTD MFA-600, the Matt DeVries Signature Series guitar. Normally, when we give away a guitar, it can take awhile to process the paperwork and so on, and a couple of weeks can go by before the winner gets his or her new instrument. But this was a special case; Sgt Halpin was scheduled to depart on a five-month tour of duty in less than a week.

We weren't about to make Nate wait until December to get his prize, so we said, "Screw the system! Let's get him his axe NOW!", and overnighted the guitar to him that very day. In exchange for his special treatment, this Marine gave us back a treat of our own: he took the guitar to his base and sent over the incredible photos you see here. It was 102 degrees, but Nate climbed up on a tank to pose with his new guitar. Despite the circumstances, he doesn't even seem to be breaking a sweat. There's a Marine for you!

Nate and his brand new LTD MFA-600, courtesy of ESP.

A brief side note: you may have heard the phrase "Semper Fi" spoken in regard to US Marines. It's short for Semper Fidelis, which is Latin for "Always Faithful", and is the motto of the USMC. It signifies the dedication and loyalty that individual Marines have for "Corps and Country". At ESP, we couldn't be happier that we were able to give a gift to such a deserving person. Congratulations, Sgt Halpin!

New ESP Artists: Matt & Duke from The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus

2010-07-15T09:11:00.000-07:00

We're happy to announce that Matt Carter and Duke Kitchens from The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus have joined the ESP family.

Hailing from Middleburg, FL, a town not far from Jacksonville, Red Jumpsuit Apparatus was founded by Duke along with singer Ronnie Winter back in 2001 while they were still in high school. A couple of years later, they firmed up the band's lineup and recorded an early album. As is the case in many bands, it took awhile to get their momentum rolling beyond the local level. By 2006, they were signed to Virgin and released Don't You Fake It, an album which ended up going Platinum with over 1,000,000 copies sold.

In 2009, their second album Lonely Road was released, and this time they hit the #14 spot on the Billboard Top 200. But times change, and earlier this year the band decided they'd be better off continuing as independent artists, parting ways with Virgin Records and creating a new EP, The Hell or High Water, on their own. The new collection of songs will be released in August. The band has been cool enough to let fans check out the first single from the EP, "Choke", at their Facebook page here.

As you probably know, ESP has been supportive of all kinds of bands for many years. With models like the LTD Viper and LTD EC Series, we've made high-quality, high-performance guitars available to local bands around the world, giving them the chance to make it big like Matt and Duke from RJA. We're happy to be able to keep making great guitars and working with great bands. Who knows... maybe you could be our next new member of the ESP family!

Mike V visits ESP

2010-07-14T10:14:00.000-07:00

ESP's Director of Marketing and Artist Relations Allen Steelgrave (left), ESP tech Ryan Dominguez (middle left) and ESP VP of Product Development Todd Binder (right) surround Mike V during his visit to ESP's offices on Tuesday July 13, 2010.

Sometimes, it's good to be us.

While we always think it's cool when our musician friends stop by our headquarters in North Hollywood, CA, we also get visitors who are well known for endeavors outside music. Why? Because we're ESP, and people like checking out where the guitars of their favorite players come from. Plus, you wouldn't believe how many athletes, actors, and other people are musicians as well as doing what they're famous for.

Yesterday, our visitor of the day was none other than Mike Vallely, more commonly know as Mike V. While Mike is a musician, he's infinitely more well known as one of the world's premiere professional skateboarders. Since his start in the late '80s, Mike has become renowned via his mind-blowing skating style which literally transformed the entire sport of skateboarding. If you've played the Tony Hawk Pro Skater video games, chances are you've unlocked Mike V as a playable character. In fact, the storyline of the fifth game in the series, Tony Hawk's Underground, is based on Mike V's skateboard career.

Check out the video below to see Mike in action!

ESP/Mother's Music Warped Tour Contest!

2010-07-09T09:20:00.000-07:00

Okay, all you Canadians. Here's your revenge for all those contests we have that are "USA Only".

Mother's Music and ESP have gotten together on the "Get Warped Like A Rockstar" contest, which is just for Canada residents (18+). The lucky grand prize winner will receive:

• Two (2) VIP Tickets and Passes for the Contest winner ("Winner") and Winner's guest ("Guest") to attend the Vans Warped Tour 2010 at Northlands Grounds, Edmonton, Alberta, on August 5, 2010;

• The Grand Prize includes VIP limo transportation to and from the event;

• Return Airfare for the winner and a guest from the nearest Mother's Music location (Winnipeg/Saskatoon/Calgary) to Edmonton, Alberta;

• Two (2) nights accommodation for two (2) people in Edmonton, Alberta, August 3 and August 4, 2010;

• An ESP/LTD guitar signed by the ESP Guitars artists performing on the 2010 Vans Warped Tour;

• Meet & Greets with ESP Guitars artists* including members of: Dillinger Escape Plan, Whitechapel and Andrew W.K.;

• ESP Guitars swag;

• CDN $400 spending money!

*subject to artist availability

Enter by July 26... and good luck from ESP and Mother's Music!

CONTEST ENTRY FORM

COMPLETE RULES AND REGULATIONS

Vans Warped Tour 2010 Starts Today!

2010-06-25T13:13:00.000-07:00

Today is the first date of the Vans Warped Tour 2010, but it might as well be renamed the "ESP Rocks Your Ass Off Tour" this year. Check it out... the list of ESP players you'll see at many of these shows is staggering.

• Andrew W.K. (John "Frank" Werner, Justin Payne, and Ken Andrews)
• Anti Flag (Justin Sane)
• The Casualties (Jake Kolatis, Rick Lopez)
• Dillinger Escape Plan (Ben Weinman)
• Everytime I Die (Jordan Buckley)
• iwrestledabearonce (Steven Bradley, John Ganey)
• Parkway Drive (Jeff Ling and Luke Kilpatrick)
• Pierce the Veil (Tony Perry)
• Suicide Silence (Mark Heylmun, Dan Kenny)
• Whitechapel (Alex Wade, Ben Savage, and Zach Householder)

Make sure you know when the Warped Tour is coming to your neighborhood (and visit vanswarpedtour.com for the most up-to-date info):

Fri Jun 25: Home Depot Center (Carson, CA)
Sat Jun 26: Shoreline Amphitheatre (Mountain View, CA)
Sun Jun 27: Ventura Country Fairground At Seaside Park (Ventura, CA)
Tue Jun 29: Cricket Pavilion (Phoenix, AZ)
Wed Jun 30: N.M.S.U. Practice Field (Las Cruces, NM)
Thu Jul 01: AT&T Center (San Antonio, TX)
Fri Jul 02: The Showgrounds At Sam Houston Race Park (Houston, TX)
Sat Jul 03: Superpages.com Center (Dallas, TX)
Mon Jul 05: Verizon Wireless Amphitheater (St.Louis, MO)
Tue Jul 06: Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre (Indianapolis, IN)
Wed Jul 07: First Niagara Pavilion (Burgettstown, PA)
Thu Jul 08: Time Warner Cable Amphitheatre (Cleveland, OH)
Fri Jul 09: Arrow Hall (Toronto, ON)
Sat Jul 10: Parc Jean Drapeau (Montreal, QC)
Sun Jul 11: Comcast Theater (Hartford, CT)
Tue Jul 13: Comcast Center (Mansfield, MA)
Wed Jul 14: Darien Lake P.A.C. (Darien Center, NY)
Thu Jul 15: Toyota Pavilion (Scranton, PA)
Fri Jul 16: Susquehanna Bank Center (Camden, NJ)
Sat Jul 17: Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum (Uniondale, NY)
Sun Jul 18: Monmouth Park Racetrack (Oceanport, NJ)
Tue Jul 20: Merriweather Post Pavilion (Columbia, MD)
Wed Jul 21: Virginia Beach Amphitheatre (Virginia Beach, VA)
Thu Jul 22: Verizon Wireless Amphitheater Charlotte (Charlotte, NC)
Fri Jul 23: Vinoy Park (St. Petersburg, FL)
Sat Jul 24: Cruzan Amphitheater (West Palm Beach, FL)
Sun Jul 25: Firestone Amphitheatre @ The Lot (Orlando, FL)
Mon Jul 26: Aaron's Amphitheater at Lakewood (Atlanta, GA)
Wed Jul 28: Riverbend Music Center (Cincinnati, OH)
Thu Jul 29: Marcus Amphitheater (Milwaukee, WI)
Fri Jul 30: Comerica Park (Detroit, MI)
Sat Jul 31: First Midwest Bank Amphitheatre (Tinley Park, IL)
Sun Aug 01: Canterbury Park (Shakopee, MN)
Mon Aug 02: Sandstone Amphitheatre (Bonner Springs, KS)
Thu Aug 05: Northlands Grounds (Edmonton, AB)
Sat Aug 07: Utah State Fairgrounds (Salt Lake City, UT)
Sun Aug 08: Invesco Field (Denver, CO)
Tue Aug 10: Cricket Amphitheatre (San Diego, CA)
Wed Aug 11: Pomona Fairplex (Pomona, CA)
Thu Aug 12: Sleep Train Amphitheatre (Marysville, CA)
Fri Aug 13: Idaho Center Amphitheatre (Nampa, ID)
Sat Aug 14: Gorge Amphitheater (George, WA)
Sun Aug 15: Washington County Fairgrounds (Hillsboro, OR)

ESP sponsors MMA fighter Shayna Baszler

2010-06-24T12:57:00.000-07:00

What goes better together than the world of metal and the world of mixed martial arts? Nothing! That's why ESP has strong relationships with people in the MMA world, and it's why we're now an official sponsor of MMA fighter Shayna Baszler, who recently became the FCF Women’s Bantamweight Grand Prix champion.

She calls herself the "Queen of Spades", and if you see her coming at you, you'd be wise to back down. Currently ranked #4 in the world in her weight class, Shayna means business. After connecting with former UFC heavyweight champ Josh Barnett, she started training under his mastery of the art of kicking ass. Since starting in the MMA world, Shayna's put together 12 wins, 11 of which coming by way of submission. If you don't know what that means, just understand that she put such a beatdown on her opponents that they had to quit before suffering even worse consequences.

Shayna grew up in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. She met Josh at a fight, and he was so impressed by her that since she couldn't relocate to Southern California at the time, he put together a training video teaching her the steps to becoming a great fighter. Josh also saw something in Shayna that caused him to suggest that she carry a guitar into the ring as her signature entrance. Since Josh is friends with us at ESP, we were happy to take his word that Shayna would be a good candidate for sponsorship.

Shayna and Josh.

We don't claim to be experts in mixed martial arts, but we've been told that Shayna's fighting styles include Muay Thai and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. We'd ask to find out more, but it sounds like we'd learn by getting kicked upside the head about 18 times, so we'll pass for now.

Would you get in a staredown with this guy? Probably not.

When Shayna jumps in the ring, she's holding a very appropriate ESP model, if you want to be brutal: the LTD DJ-600 Dan Jacobs Signature Model.

I'd listen to the shirt if I were you.

For more info on Shayna, check out her MySpace page here. And as always, for more info on ESP's guitars, basses, artists, lessons, news, videos, music, and much more, cruise by espguitars.com.

ESP/Andrew W.K./Vans Warped Tour Contest!

2010-06-23T10:31:00.000-07:00

People ask us from time to time what our artist endorsees are like in person. Are they the same as they seem onstage? Completely different? Well, as you'd expect, it varies from artist to artist, but we can tell you with no hesitation: Andrew W.K. is as much a maniac in real life as he is when the spotlights are on him. If you don't believe us, just check out his video for the ESP/Andrew W.K. contest being held at every date of this summer's Vans Warped Tour 2010:

In case you were too freaked out by Andrew in the vid, we'll try and tell you about this calmly.

At every date of the 2010 Warped Tour this summer, Andrew W.K. will be giving away some sweet ESPs, including LTD H-351NTs and LTD MH-327s. All you have to do for a chance to win is...

1. Visit Andrew W.K.'s web site.
2. Or go directly to his Street Team page to enter.
3. Andrew will post the time of the guitar giveaway for each date of the Warped Tour on his Twitter, Myspace, and Facebook.
4. You MUST be present at the show to win! Once you find out the time, be at Andrew's Party House mega air conditioned tent at the Warped Tour!

One of the entrants for each show will be randomly selected, and that lucky person will get a signed guitar from Andrew! Sounds like a good way to keep the party rolling long after the show is over. Best of luck to you from Andrew W.K. and ESP!

Ozzy Rocks House of Blues

2010-06-22T11:00:00.000-07:00

Last Sunday, ESP's director of marketing and artist relations Allen Steelgrave got to go to the House of Blues to see Ozzy Osbourne and his new band run through an hour's worth of songs in preparation for larger shows coming up (like Ozzfest, of course). It was also the release party for Ozzy's new album SCREAM, which comes out today. Allen gets to do all the fun stuff, so we thought we'd do a little interview with him to get a first-person look into a night of epic metal.

ESP: What did you do Sunday night?

Allen Steelgrave: Saw Ozzy at House of Blues.

ESP: No way! How was it?

AS: Seriously, one of the best 60-minute shows I've seen in years.

ESP: Awesome! Tell us all about it.

AS: Well first, everyone who was anyone in the world of hard rock and metal was there. Before the show started, Sharon (Osbourne) came out and said that she wanted the public to hear how good the 11 new songs on Ozzy's new album SCREAM sounded.

ESP: Oh. So, he only played the new songs? That's cool, I guess.

AS: Well, what actually happened was this: they played the entire new album over the House of Blues sound system. But when Ozzy came out, he did every classic Ozzy tune you can think of.

ESP: What? No f*@#ing way! Such as?

AS: Let's see... he did "I Don't Know". He did "Crazy Train". He did "Fairies Wear Boots".

ESP: Shut up!

AS: It was amazing. What else? "Bark at the Moon". "Shot in the Dark". In fact, the only song from the new album he did live with the band was "Let Me Hear you Scream", which was also awesome.

ESP: Wow, what a killer show. Tell us more about Gus G., our friend and Ozzy's new guitarist. How did he do on the songs?

AS: Gus was... the only way I can describe it is that I remember what Ozzy was like with Randy Rhoads, and seeing the onstage relationship between Ozzy and Gus completely reminded of that.

ESP: How so?

AS: Ozzy was grabbing Gus while he was soloing, lifting him up, letting Gus have his share of the spotlight, and so on. At the end of every solo, the crowd would erupt in cheers. Everyone loved him. Anyone in the crowd who was still on the fence about Gus having joined Ozzy was 100% won over.

ESP: Dude, that's unbelievable. Did you get any bootleg video or anything?

AS: Actually, I did, but we can't show anyone anything until we get Sharon's approval.

ESP: That seems like a good idea.

While we're waiting for approval, let's whet our appetite for Ozzy with the brand new video for "Let Me Hear You Scream"!

Everything Ozzy!

2010-06-15T12:19:00.000-07:00

Let's just go ahead and call the next few months the "Summer of Oz", okay? There's so much cool stuff going on with the Prince of Darkness, we don't even know where to begin. So before this crazy train gets derailed, let's roll into our official ESP Ozzy Osbourne report.

1. TONIGHT (Tue. June 15, 2010): OZZY ON KIMMEL!

You're not going to wuss out and fall asleep before Ozzy plays on Jimmy Kimmel Live tonight, right? It's starts at 12:30AM on your local ABC station. Do NOT miss it! ESP player Gus G. will be rocking hard, so at least DVR the show if you're going to go to bed at 9:30 (when Mommy tells you to).

http://abc.go.com/shows/jimmy-kimmel-live

2. NEW OZZY ALBUM "SCREAM" OUT JUNE 22!

They're already taking pre-orders over at Ozzy.com, so what are you waiting for? This might be Ozzy's best album in years and years. Invigorated with the addition of new blood like Gus G., the album is classic Ozzy mixed in with a truly modern metal vibe.

3. MAKING OF "LET ME HEAR YOU SCREAM" VIDEO:

YouTube Link

4. LISTEN TO THE WHOLE ALBUM ON OZZY'S MYSPACE PAGE!

Yes, the Prince of Darkness is a generous prince. You can, right at this moment, listen to the entire Scream album on Ozzy's official MySpace page! If you like it, make sure to buy it afterwards. Ozzy thanks you.

That's all the Ozzy news we're going to drop on you now... there's only so much you can take at one sitting without possibly lethal repercussions. However, we have even more exciting Ozzy news that we'll be dropping on you shortly. As always, stay tuned to the ESP blog as well as following us on Twitter and Facebook for the latest news! All aboard! Ha ha ha ha...

Win Eternal Descent Comics & Poster from ESP!

2010-06-04T12:19:00.000-07:00

As promised earlier, here's an ESP contest just for our Facebook fans.

As of this very moment, there are 11,026 people who are fans of the official ESP Facebook page (facebook.com/espguitars). But that hardly seems like enough for a company like ESP. We want your help in making sure that more people get hooked up with ESP on Facebook... and we're going to reward you for your efforts.

Starting today (Friday June 4) and ending in one week (Friday June 11), we're challenging you to suggest the ESP Facebook page to at least 50 friends. Easy, right? Here's how to have a chance to win...

1. Go to the official ESP Facebook page (facebook.com/espguitars) and click the "Suggest to Friends" link near the top. Then pick 50 or more friends who you think would be into ESP.

2. After you've suggested 50 or more friends, go back to the ESP Facebook page and click on the "Notes" tab on top. You'll see a note called "ESP Eternal Descent Facebook Contest Signup". Just enter your Facebook name in the comments so we can get in contact with you.

3. After June 11, we'll send you a link to an online form so you can let us know where to send your prize. That's it!

The first 100 people who do this will receive issues 1 and 2 of the Eternal Descent comic book, along with a limited-edition Eternal Descent poster! Eternal Descent is an epic comic series that features real rock stars as characters, including ESP artists like Gus G. (Ozzy/Firewind), Wayne Static (Static-X), Doc Coyle (God Forbid), Dan Jacobs (Atreyu), and more!

RULES:

• This contest is open to residents of the USA age 13 or older.
• We'll select the 100 eligible prize winners on a first-come, first served basis.
• We'll be randomly confirming the suggestions our prize winners make, so no funny business.

Best of luck to you!

Andrew W.K. photo shoot at ESP HQ

2010-06-03T15:45:00.000-07:00

For the first time in four years, Andrew W.K. is about to head out on the road nationwide, playing on the Vans Warped Tour 2010. Since he'll probably be too busy being in 24/7 party mode from late June through mid-August, we figured now was a good time to get him to stop by the ESP headquarters in North Hollywood, CA, and take a few photos.

Here's the man himself, in a candid shot behind the actual photo shoot...

You might not know that no less than four members of Andrew W.K.'s band -- Erik Payne, John "Frank" Werner, Justin Payne, and Ken Andrews -- all play ESP. Keep your eyes open for Andrew and his multitude of ESP players during the Warped Tour, and check out more of your favorite ESP artists (and their guitars and basses) at espguitars.com!

ESP EXCLUSIVE: Behind the scenes with Gus G. and Ozzy

2010-05-27T08:40:00.000-07:00

Last night, we got an invite to go hang out at a rehearsal for an upcoming tour. No big deal, right? We see bands rehearsing and playing all the time... it's good to be us. But this particular rehearsal was for the newest incarnation of Ozzy Osbourne's band, in a secret location somewhere in the LA area, with their getting ready for the upcoming Ozzfest tour. It was great to hang out with the band, which includes bassist Rob "Blasko" Nicholson, keyboardist Adam Wakeman, and brand new members Tommy Clufetos (drums) and Ozzy's new guitar god, ESP endorsee Gus G.

As you can see in the photo above, Gus is really settling into his role as Ozzy's guitarist, and was definitely causing some jaws to drop with his fluid, speedy playing at the rehearsal. Gus was alternating between several guitars, including his ESP Gus G. NT, his ESP Eclipse models, and more. The vibe there was casual, but you could tell that all of these guys are very serious about putting on the best possible show for you at Ozzfest this summer. The entire band sounds amazing live, both on classic Ozzy songs and the new material they've recently recorded. Per the current schedule, the tour will be starting on August 14 in Devore, CA at the San Manuel Amphitheater (you can order your tickets right now at ozzfest.com), and it might be one of the most exciting Ozzy performances you'll ever see. Even if you can't get to the show, keep in mind that the new Ozzy album Scream, which features this great new band lineup, comes out June 22.

We weren't the only friends of Ozzy invited to check out this rehearsal, by the way. Below is a photo of ESP's Allen Steelgrave (right) next to mixed martial arts champion Josh Barnett. We figure Allen could last three, possibly four seconds against Josh if a brawl had broken out. Okay, maybe two seconds. We don't want to give Allen too much credit here.

We're going to be doing more exclusive stuff with Gus G. and Ozzy's band as they get ready to hit the road, so keep your eyes peeled for some exciting coverage as we move closer to the dates of the tour!

Follow-up: Atreyu at Tilly's (May 15, 2010)

2010-05-24T16:16:00.000-07:00

The weekend before last, we decided to pitch in for an in-store appearance with our pals in Atreyu. As you undoubtedly know, guitarists Dan Jacobs and Travis Miguel are both members of the ESP family, and both guys have their own LTD Signature Series model guitars.

Apparently the event, held at a Tilly's store in Riverside, CA on May 15 and sponsored by ESP and Anarchy Sunglasses, went really well. And of course, the two people who took home the guitars (signed by the whole band) weren't complaining either.

The LTD DJ-600V and LTD TM-600 await their new owners.

How stoked would you be to take home the DJ-600V?

Is the girl more cute than the guitar? Discuss.

Here's a video of the event.

As always, more info on ESP and LTD guitars and basses at espguitars.com!

Winds of Plague tonight

2010-05-21T11:13:00.000-07:00

What are you up to tonight? How about seeing a secret show by ESP band Winds of Plague?

As part of the Weekend of Horrors event at the Marriott (near the LA Airport at 5855 West Century Blvd.), Winds of Plague will be rocking the main room at about 10PM. The convention seems killer too: horror movie stars like the original Freddy Krueger (Robert Englund), Dario Argento and many others will be there, as well as a Coffin Case Girl fashion show before the band comes on!

Winds of Plague includes ESP endorsees guitarist Nick Piunno and bassist Andrew Glover. Nick has been seen rocking the LTD Deluxe H-1000, while Andrew pounds his ESP Vintage-4.

Hey LA: Win a guitar signed by Slayer members TONIGHT!

2010-05-20T12:25:00.000-07:00

As you probably know, tonight (Thursday May 20, 2010), Slayer will be performing on the Jimmy Kimmel show. But it can be a REALLY special night for one lucky winner in Los Angeles.

ESP is going to give away a Jeff Hanneman Signature Series LTD JH-200 guitar tonight, signed by members of Slayer! Here's how you can win...

1. Be at the El Capitan Theater in Hollywood tonight (5/20/10) between 5:30 and 6:00PM. That's where the Kimmel show is filmed.

2. Find ESP's Mario. Good luck with that.

3. Mario will ask you the following question: "What year was Slayer formed?"

4. You will respond "1981".

THAT'S IT. The ESP LTD JH-200 will be yours, if you find Mario first.

Best of luck and good hunting... from ESP!

Another ESP winner: Rob Owens

2010-05-18T16:31:00.000-07:00

This is the funniest contest-winning story we've heard in a long time.

As you probably heard, we've recently teamed up with Volcom to give away some guitars during the Volcom Tour. Mark from Volcom has been giving away the guitars by hiding somewhere near the tour venues, and offering clues via Twitter and Facebook.

Well, at the Omaha, NE tour stop, Rob Owens was the guy who figured out the clues. Problem? At that moment, he was at a wedding. No one would leave a wedding just to win a guitar, right? WRONG! Rob, looking decidedly un-metal in his button-down shirt and tie he'd worn to the wedding, found Mark from Volcom hiding behind a local laundry.

Rob runs away from a wedding to claim his LTD V-200.

We're not quite sure what happened after that, but we don't think Rob made it back to see the end of the wedding. Changing clothes into something more appropriate, Rob got to see the Volcom tour that evening, and had his new LTD V-200 signed by the members of Mastodon!

Whoooooo!!!!

Congratulations to Rob, and thanks for the awesome story. Hopefully the wedding participants will understand your fast departure when they see the killer guitar you ended up with. By the way, if you want to be sure you don't miss out on future ESP contest, make sure to follow us on Twitter.

Omaha, NE: Win a guitar tomorrow (5/15)!

2010-05-14T11:00:00.000-07:00

Heads up, Omaha! Volcom is continuing their Volcom Tour, and on Saturday May 15, some lucky person is going to win an ESP LTD V-200. All you have to do is find Mark from Volcom, who will be waiting in a secret spot near the venue with the guitar on the day of show.

The LTD V-Series guitars are pure rock machines. Plus, they're available in any color you want, as long as it's black. :)

To find Mark and claim the guitar, you'll need to pay attention to clues posted tomorrow on Volcom's Twitter page or their Facebook page. They're also giving away a bunch of tour goodies, so good luck to you and happy hunting... from ESP and Volcom!

Lizzy Borden on Tour!

2010-05-13T14:42:00.000-07:00

If you've never seen a Lizzy Borden show, you've missed out. You've also missed seeing bass player Marten Andersson, who's been a long-time member of the ESP family. Marten is well known for slinging his custom 8-string ESP bass as shown above, but has also been known to rock an ESP Vintage 4 and LTD B-Series basses as well.

While Lizzy Borden's tour currently has them on the East Coast of the USA, they'll be hitting Europe and Japan later this year. According to the band, "The shows in Japan and Europe will be a best of, incorporating songs from the entire Lizzy Borden catalog including the latest CD Appointment with Death. We will be performing all of the classic songs like "Me Against the World", "American Metal", "Master of Disguise" as well as the new singles "Tomorrow Never Comes" and "Under Your Skin".

The tour schedule is shaping up as follows... check lizzyborden.com for the most updated news:

May:
May 20 - Berlin, NH - The White Mountain Chalet
May 21 - Clifton, NJ - Dingbatz
May 22 - Baltimore, MD - Quarter @ Bourbon Street Ballroom
May 28 - Pittsburgh, PA - Hard Rock Cafe
May 29 - Poughkeepsie, NY - The Chance
May 30 - Providence, RI - Club Hell

June:
June 1 - Brooklyn, NY - The Bell House
June 3 - Wantagh, NY - Mulchay’s
June 4 - Springfield, VA - Jaxx
June 5 - Reading, PA - The Silo Night Club
June 6 - Newport News, VA - Budda’s Place (New venue)

August:
August 6 - Wacken, Germany - Wacken Open Air
August 7 - Brielpoort/Deinze, Belgium - Alcatraz Metal Festival
August 13 - San Javier, Spain - Leyendas del Rock festival
August 14 - Pontevedra, Spain - Vigo @ Sala Mondo
August 15 - A Coruña, Spain - Discoteca Ola Green
August 19 - Uster, Switzerland - Rock City
August 20 - Viareggio, Italy - Paranoid
August 21 - Trieste, Italy
August 26 - Uster, Switzerland - Rock City
August 28 - Rijssen, Holland - Elsrock Festival

September:
September 24 - Tokyo, Japan - Shibuya Cyclone
September 25 - Tokyo, Japan - Shibuya Cyclone

As always, get more info on ESP guitars, basses, and our family of artists at http://www.espguitars.com!

Sat 5/15: Meet Atreyu and enter to win a guitar!

2010-05-10T10:44:00.000-07:00

This coming Saturday (May 15, 2010) at 2:00PM, Atreyu and ESP fans will have a dream come true! At the Galleria at Tyler (Riverside, CA), Atreyu will be at the Tilly's store to meet fans and sign autographs. But that's not all! Attendees can enter for a chance to win a Dan Jacobs Signature Series LTD DJ-600V!

This guitar sounds and feels every bit as bad-ass as it looks. It has set-thru construction, a mahogany body, maple neck w/rosewood fingerboard and 22 XJ frets, black nickel hardware, Grover tuners, a Floyd Rose 1000 Series bridge, EMG 81 (bridge) / 85 (neck) active pickups w/EMG Afterburner, and a killer dripping blood graphic finish. More info on Dan Jacobs' signature model available here! See you Saturday at Tilly's, along with Atreyu!

Congrats to Padge and Bullet For My Valentine!

2010-05-07T08:56:00.000-07:00

As we mentioned last week, Fever, the new album by ESP endorsee Michael Paget's band Bullet For My Valentine, was recently released. However, no one could have anticipated that it would do as well as it has. The album grabbed the top spot on Billboard's Hard Rock Albums chart, selling 71,000 copies in its first week. That pushed the album to #3 on the Billboard Top 200!

Those of you who are interested in getting Padge's sound should immediately check out ESP's Michael Paget Signature Series, including the ESP Michael Paget and the LTD MP-600.

Again, huge props to Padge and BFMV on their success!

Win a Will Adler Sig Model from Coffin Case & ESP!

2010-05-05T16:33:00.000-07:00

That's right... we're giving away yet another guitar. No, make that two!

ESP has teamed up with Coffin Case, Affliction Clothing, and Lamb of God to bring you a sweepstakes of epic proportions. Two lucky entries will be the winners of a Will Adler signature guitar from ESP and a Coffin Case. That's right... TWO LTD WA-600s are up for grabs. More info on ESP's Will Adler Signature Series models here.

To enter for a chance to win, all you have to do is send your name, address, date of birth, and phone number to giveaways@coffincase.com. All entries must be received by May 31, 2010. One entry per household. No purchase necessary. See the Coffin Case site for full rules and regulations. Good luck!

And the EX-260 winner is... Lauren Vieira!

2010-05-04T14:08:00.000-07:00

Now that's a happy looking person. Why? She heard about the Volcom/ESP contest we held yesterday, where people at the Volcom Tour in Albuquerque, NM had to find Mark from Volcom in a hidden location at a certain time. She ended up with an ESP LTD EX-260. You'd be happy too! Congratulations, Lauren!

We're going to continue holding these special contests quite often, and the best way to make sure you hear about them is by following @espguitarsusa on Twitter.

A Chance to Win an LTD EX-260 TODAY

2010-05-03T14:08:00.000-07:00

We just got a mysterious email from the folks at Volcom. Check it out...

===================
ATTN: Albuquerque, NM!
Find me today at 5:30PM & you will win a super sick guitar thanks to our friends at ESP!!

THE CLUE:

The Volcom Tour is at Sunshine Theater tonight, and right across the street from the venue there is a huge parking lot with big murals on the walls. You can find me & the guitar at 5:30PM underneath the airplane!!
Good Luck!
-MarkG
===================

Well, if you're in Albuquerque, we suggest you keep your eyes open for Mark at 5:30 tonight!

Fever from Bullet For My Valentine Out Now!

2010-04-28T16:16:00.000-07:00

Welsh metal band Bullet For My Valentine's new album Fever is now available! As you ESP fans known, guitarist Michael "Padge" Paget has been a loyal user of our guitars for quite awhile, and has two Signature Series models -- the ESP Michael Paget and the LTD MP-600 -- that you'll hear all over this killer new album. For detailed information on Padge's use of his ESP guitars, check out the interview on ESP-TV!

Fever is BFMV's third album, and is already getting great reviews. For song samples and ordering information, just visit their site!

Here's a reason to follow us on Twitter: win stuff!

2010-04-22T12:58:00.000-07:00

Yesterday (Wed. 4/21/10), ESP artists Vampires Everywhere (Century Media) stopped by our offices in North Hollywood, CA. To mark the occasion, we decided to give away an LTD F-50 guitar to a lucky winner. And how did this winner find out about the contest? We posted it to our Twitter feed, and within minutes, someone called into the special number we set up and won the guitar! Wait, there's more: the band signed the guitar for the winner, Dave from Dublin, CA.

Check out the video below, but first... visit our Twitter page at http://twitter.com/espguitarsusa and follow us! We'll be hosting more contests like this one, but you'll never know unless you follow ESP!

Okay, now watch the vid.

Or see it on YouTube here

TARGET AND FFI SETTLE WITH ESP GUITAR COMPANY

2010-04-20T17:52:00.000-07:00

North Hollywood, CA (April 20, 2010) -- In 2008 and 2009 the ESP Guitar Company filed infringement complaints against Target Corporation and Fortune Fashion Industries in California and New Jersey courts. As of April 2010 the parties have reached a consensus and entered a settlement agreement, resolving the dispute.

According to Matt Masciandaro, President & CEO of the ESP Guitar Company, “We have resolved the conflicts between our companies. We will continue to enforce our intellectual property rights around the globe and are satisfied with the terms of this settlement.” The terms of the settlement are confidential.

Founded in 1975 and currently celebrating its 35th year in business, the ESP Guitar Company is a respected manufacturer of electric guitars and basses for musicians in over 50 countries. The company's artist endorsee roster includes members of world-renowned bands including guitarists in Metallica, Slayer, The Rolling Stones, and many others. The ESP brands of guitars and basses include ESP and LTD instruments. For more information visit www.espguitars.com.

ESP Artists at the Golden Gods awards

2010-04-08T14:59:00.000-07:00

Tonight at Club Nokia in Los Angeles, the Revolver Golden Gods awards are taking place. This awards show won't air until May 22 on VH-1 Classic, but in the meantime, check out some of the ESP artists and friends nominated in various categories...

BEST GUITARIST:
- Kirk Hammett (Metallica)

ALBUM OF THE YEAR:
- Alice in Chains, Black Gives Way to Blue
- Slayer, World Painted Blood

BEST LIVE BAND:
- Lamb of God
- Metallica
- Slayer

BEST UNDERGROUND BAND:
- Behemoth
- The Black Dahlia Murder
- The Dillinger Escape Plan

MOST METAL ATHLETE:
- Josh Barnett (MMA fighting)

HOTTEST CHICK(S) IN METAL:
- Cristina Scabbia (Lacuna Coil)

COMEBACK OF THE YEAR:
- Alice in Chains

More info: http://www.goldengodsawards.com/

Immortal: On Tour

2010-03-31T17:56:00.000-07:00

Are you ready for some live black metal? Norwegian band Immortal is ready to bring it to you. They're out on tour now, and if you get a chance to check them out, make sure and pay attention to Abbath Doom Occulta playing his modified LTD DV8R, as well as bass player Apollyon with his F-Series LTD!

Atreyu Debuts "Lonely" Video

2010-03-25T10:06:00.001-07:00

Check out the new Atreyu video, "Lonely", via the link below. The song comes from their latest album, Congregation of the Damned. Filmed in Tokyo Japan, the vid is to have a concept of touring life on and off the stage. Shaun Stiegemeier, who first worked with Atreyu in 2003, took over the directing duties for the shoot. He has worked with the band on numerous videos, including last year's special effects driven "Storm to Pass".

Throughout the video, Atreyu guitarist Dan Jacobsis seen with his ESP Signature Series LTD DJ-600 EX guitar. Be sure to stop by the ESP website and check out Dan's new LTD DJ-600 V!

Atreyu - "Lonely" Video

Driver Williams On Tour with Eric Church and ESP!

2010-03-23T10:28:00.001-07:00

Up-and-coming country guitar phenom Driver Williams, from the Eric Church Band, is now on tour with ESP Guitars. Driver can be seen with several of our ESP Standard Series Eclipses. Being a guitarist with both metal and rock roots, we aren't surprised that Driver prefers to use ESP Guitars. William's superb country tone further proves the diversity of using an ESP. Some of Driver's influences include guitarists Dimebag Darrel, Willie Nelson, James Hetfield, Kirk Hammett, Duane Allman and Waylon Jennings. He tends to describe his guitar playing as "if Waylon Jennings had been listening to Pantera." Driver's latest works can be heard on Eric Church's second album entitled Carolina. The album includes Driver as a co-writer on the song "Smoke a Little Smoke".

For tour dates and more information on the band visit The Official Eric Church Website.

The latest Eric Church Video "Hell On The Heart" can be viewed below. Check out Driver with his ESP Eclipse!

Hell On The Heart

Andrew W.K. On Tour With ESP!

2010-03-17T09:48:00.001-07:00

ESP artist Andrew W.K. will be performing live for the first time in five years! The show will take place on March 16th at the Fillmore in New York City. The Andrew W.K. double album entitled Close Calls With Brick Walls and Mother Mankind will be released on March 23rd. You can also see the band in the upcoming Vans Warped Tour from June 25th to August 15th. The Andrew W.K. band will be playing ESP Guitars exclusively throughout the duration of their tour!

When Andrew W.K. isn't rocking his ESP, he's busy hosting his own show on the Cartoon Network entitled "Destroy Build Destroy." During the show, two competing teams destroy various objects and build machines from the wreckage. The winning team is awarded a lump of cash and is allowed to destroy the other's creation! Check out "Destroy Build Destroy" HERE.

For the most up-to-date tour info, visit the Official Andrew W.K. Website.

Havok Opening For Hammerfall

2010-03-16T13:44:00.000-07:00

Starting March 28th, Havok begins its epic tour with Swedish metal gods Hammerfall. The nine day tour kicks off in San Diego, CA and concludes itself in Houston, TX. Continuing their touring assualt, Havok will open for German metallers Primal Fear beginning in May.

For Tour Dates visit the Official Havok Website: www.myspace.com/havok

David Sanchez and Shawn Chavez playing the Ltd DJ-600V and
Ltd MH-1000FR (Photo by Diana Lee).

11 New LTD Models for Spring 2010

2010-03-12T17:10:00.000-08:00

We know what you’re thinking. You’re saying to yourself, “Hey, sure, ESP is great and all. They have the best artist endorsees. They’re the coolest people in the entire world of guitar makers. But they just released 22 new models at the NAMM show. Surely they’re done showing us awesome new guitars for the year, right?”

Wrong! Less than two months after NAMM, we’re here to blow your mind again, this time with another 11 new guitars and basses. We were going to wait until the start of the Musikmesse show in Germany to tell you about this, but there’s no better time than the present, so let’s rock! All of the guitar and basses described below will be available during Spring 2010.

EC-1000T: the “T” is for Traditional
A new variety is now available in our world-famous LTD Deluxe EC-1000 line. The new EC-1000T (BLK) and EC-1000T (FCSB) represent a more traditional look and feel to the classic single-cutaway body shape... it has a slightly thicker body, no waist cut, and a 22 extra-jumbo fret neck (as opposed to the 24 frets on most EC models).

The black-finished EC-1000T (BLK) uses a set-neck construction on a 24.75" scale. The guitar has a mahogany body, mahogany neck (with a thin-U contour), and rosewood fingerboard with abalone flag inlays. Abalone purfling is on the guitar’s headstock, neck, body. Its gold hardware includes ESP locking tuners and a Tonepros locking TOM bridge and tailpiece. Other high-performance components include a 42mm Earvana compensated nut and EMG 81 (bridge) and EMG 60 (neck) active pickups.

The EC-1000T (FCSB) is the same body shape, with a sumptuous faded cherry sunburst finish. The new FCSB model also includes crème single binding (on headstock, body, and neck), and a flamed maple top over its mahogany body. Nickel hardware includes the covers on its Seymour Duncan Alnico II Pro pickups, along with the guitar’s ESP locking tuners and a Tonepros locking TOM bridge and tailpiece.

The new EC for Gus G!
You probably already know that Firewind member (and ESP guitarist) Gus G. is now playing with Ozzy Osbourne. He’s designed a sweet new guitar for his new gig: the LTD GUS-600 EC. Based on the single-cutaway ESP Eclipse shape, this guitar is insanely cool and totally unique. It features a custom graphic finish along with custom “Gus Fire” inlays. Unlike most EC models, the new GUS-600EC has a 25.5” scale with set through construction, and features a mahogany body with a maple neck (22 XJ frets) and rosewood fingerboard. It also offers Seymour Duncan Blackout ABH-1 active pickups, with a single volume control and an on-off mini switch. The GUS-600 EC uses black nickel hardware, including ESP locking tuners and a Tonepros TOM bridge and tailpiece.

Phoenix fires up the LTD Line
In 2009, we introduced the ESP Phoenix-II guitars and basses, and everyone thought they were beyond awesome. But not everyone can get an ESP, so we’re happy to now offer the hot Phoenix models under the LTD brand! The Phoenix-1000 (BLK) and Phoenix-1000 (SW) are now available in the LTD Deluxe line, and the ultra-affordable Phoenix-200 (BLK) is in the LTD Standard line. The Phoenix-1000 guitars offer a neckthru-body construction with a 25.5" scale. These guitars have a mahogany body, maple neck, and ebony fingerboard with 22 XJ frets and 42mm Earvana compensated nut. The chrome hardware includes ESP locking tuners and Tonepros locking TOM bridge and tailpiece, along with Seymour Duncan JB (bridge) and ‘59 (neck) pickups. Finishes on the models are Black and Snow White. The Phoenix-200 is a similar guitar but with a black-finished basswood body, and ESP hardware and pickups.

LTD Phoenix Basses, Too!
Bass players, we know you felt left out in the cold at the NAMM show. But do not despair! ESP would never forget about you keepers of the low end. To start with, check out the three new LTD Phoenix basses: the Phoenix-1004 (BLK), Phoenix-1004 (2TB), and Phoenix-204 (BLK)! The LTD Deluxe Series Phoenix-1004 basses offer a neckthru-body construction; 34” Scale; Mahogany Body; Maple Neck; Ebony Fingerboard; 21 XJ Frets; and chrome hardware that includes Gotoh tuners and a Gotoh bridge. Pickups on the new LTD Deluxe Phoenix-1000 basses are EMG 35DC active models on both bridge and neck. Available finishes on these models are Black and 2-Tone Burst.The Phoenix-204, part of the LTD Standard line, implements a basswood body and ESP hardware, including its ESP DB-4 bridge, ESP SB-4 pickups, and the ESP ATB-1 active tone boost.

And More Basses...
Finally, we know how much you dig the classic look and feel of the ESP Vintage-4, and when you asked us to make an LTD version of this bass, we had no choice but to oblige. The Vintage-204 (BLK/M) and Vintage-204 (3TB/R) basses both have a classic design, with bolt-on necks a 34" scale, an alder body, and 21 XJ frets. The basses also provide chrome hardware with ESP vintage tuners, an ESP DB-4 bridge, and ESP LDJ (bridge) and LDP (neck) pickups. The Vintage-204 (BLK) has a distressed black finish and one-piece maple neck, while the Vintage-204 (3TB/R) model has a distressed 3-Tone Burst finish and a maple neck with rosewood fingerboard.

All Available Spring 2010
You don’t have to wait long for these new LTD models. All six guitars and five basses will be shipping out to ESP dealers this spring. Here’s to a continually rocking 2010, to you from ESP and LTD!

ESP At Sonisphere!

2010-03-12T14:02:00.000-08:00

ESP is taking over Sonisphere! The festivals will take place in eleven european countries starting this summer. For information regarding the festival visit the Official Sonisphere Website. Check for your favorite ESP artists in the flyers below!

Acrassicauda Releases Debut EP

2010-03-11T10:39:00.000-08:00

Acrassicauda's debut EP "Only The Dead See The End Of War" is now available for online streaming (See Widget Below). Hailing from the war-zone of Iraq, the band has recently relocated to the US to pursue its musical ambitions. ESP was introduced to the hardcore attitude of Acrassicauda by non other than Testament's Alex Skolnick. The EP was produced by Alex and mixed by Josh Wilbur who worked with bands such as Lamb of God, Hatebreed and System of a Down. Allen Steelgrave, the Director of Artist Relations at ESP Guitars, saw great potential in the band after viewing the DVD "Heavy Metal In Baghdad." The documentary emphasizes the hardships of an aspiring metal band in a muslim country. Steelgrave says, "Anyone who has the guts to get shot at for the sake of playing their music definitely belongs on this roster. Music is global. If it can't be done there. We are happy to have them do it here." ESP is proud to see the band's dream come into fruition with the release of EP "Only The Dead See The End of War." Acrassicauda's Official Myspace Can Be Viewed HERE.

Acrassicauda EP:

Acrassicauda's Debut Video "Garden of Stones":

Phoenix-II Scores Guitar World Platinum Award

2010-03-08T11:14:00.000-08:00

In recent news, the ESP Standard Series Phoenix-II has been awarded the Platinum Award by Guitar World Magazine. Praised as a modern vintage style guitar, the Phoenix-II brings on a classic design with the playability of the most up to date guitars in the market. Guitar World lays it all down in their stellar review, viewed in the video below or the January 2010 issue. Visit your local ESP Dealer for the chance to see the mastery in itself!

For more information on the Phoenix-II click HERE. Guitar World's Official Website can be viewed at www.guitarworld.com.

New CD/DVD in the Works from The Haunted

2010-03-03T13:14:00.000-08:00

The Haunted is currently adding finishing touches to their new live CD/DVD "Roadkill." The record is to be released later this year by Century Media Records. The band also preparing to hit the road with Slayer and working on material for a new studio album. Being that Patrick is an ESP artist, keep an eye out for his preferred model in the EX.

A list of Tour Dates with The Haunted and Slayer:

MAY:

Wed 26 ENG, Leeds Academy (w/ SLAYER)
Thu 27 SCO, Glasgow Barrowland (w/ SLAYER)
Fri 28 ENG, Sheffield O2 Academy (The Haunted headline show!)
Sat 29 ENG, Birmingham Academy (w/ SLAYER)
Sun 30 ENG, Manchester Academy (w/ SLAYER)
Mon 31 ENG, Nottingham Rock City (w/ SLAYER)

JUNE:

Tue 01 ENG, Hatfield The Attic (The Haunted headline show!)
Wed 02 ENG, London The Forum (w/ SLAYER)
Thu 03 ENG, London The Forum (w/ SLAYER)
Mon 07 GER, Hamburg Docks (w/ SLAYER)
Tue 08 GER, Bochum Ruhrcongress (w/ SLAYER)
Sun 13 GER, Munich Zenith (w/ SLAYER)
Mon 14 GER, Cologne Live Music Hall (w/ SLAYER)
Tue 29 ITA, Milan Alcatraz (w/ SLAYER)
Wed 30 ITA, Milan Alcatraz (w/ SLAYER)

JULY:

Fri 02 GER, Herford X (w/ SLAYER)
Sat 03 GER, Berlin Columbiahalle (w/ SLAYER)
Mon 05 GER, Weisbaden Schlachthof (w/ SLAYER)
Wed 07 FRA, Paris Bataclan (w/ SLAYER)

AUGUST:

Mon 02 HOL, Tilburg 013 (w/ SLAYER)
Tue 03 HOL, Tilburg 013 (w/ SLAYER)
Thu 05 SWI, Zurich Volkshaus (w/ SLAYER)

The Haunted Official Website can be viewed HERE.

Lazarus A.D. Unleash 'Absolute Power' Video

2010-02-26T13:55:00.000-08:00

Check out the new Lazarus A.D. music video 'Absolute Power.' The video was made in cooperation with Vision 4 Films, who worked on previous videos with the band. According to Lazarus' official press release, the video features an intense underground street fight and is for fans of metal and/or the movie Kickboxer.

So how do the guys achieve that modern thrashy sound? Jeff Paulick, Alex Lackner and Dan Gapen can be seen in the video with a GUS-600, DV8 and Surveyor-414. You can also check them out on tour with the V-II, NV and Phoenix-II Standard Series Models.

LAZARUS A.D. Spring Tour Dates:

Tour w/ Kreator, Voivod, Nachtmystium, Evile

03/03 West Springfield, VA Jaxx
03/04 Philadelphia, PA The Trocadero
03/05 Worcester, MA The Palladium
03/06 New York, NY Nokia Theater
03/07 Montreal, QC Club Soda
03/08 Quebec City, QC Imperial
03/09 Toronto, ON Opera House
03/10 Cleveland, OH Peabody’s
03/11 Detroit, MI Blondie’s
03/12 Chicago, IL The Bottom Lounge
03/13 Milwaukee, WI Rave no Voivod
03/14 St Paul, MN Block Station 4

Tour w/ Kreator, Kataklysm, Evile, Lightning Swords of Death

03/16 Denver, CO Bluebird Theater no Kataklysm
03/18 Seattle, WA Corazon
03/19 Vancouver, BC Rickshaw Theater
03/20 Portland, OR Hawthorne Theatre
03/21 San Francisco, CA Slim’s
03/23 West Hollywood, CA House of Blues
03/24 San Diego, CA House of Blues
03/25 Tucson, AZ The Rock
03/27 Austin, TX Emo’s
03/28 Houston, TX Meridian
03/30 Orlando, FL The Club at Firestone
03/31 Atlanta, GA The Masquerade

For More Information Click Here

The Dillinger Escape Plan Unveil Video Teaser

2010-02-25T11:57:00.000-08:00

The Dillinger Escape Plan is now streaming a teaser for their newest music video "Farewell, Mona Lisa." The video was recorded in support of album "Option Paralysis" to be released on March 23rd 2010. A full video premier will be available on March 1st at 4PM EST on www.justin.tv.

The Dillinger Escape Plan - "Farewell, Mona Lisa" video trailer

Season of Mist | MySpace Music Videos

See Dillinger on tour with ESP Guitars at the following dates:

03/11 - Irving Plaza - New York, NY
03/12 - The Palladium - Worcester, MA
03/13 - La Sala Rossa Cabaret - Montreal, QUE
03/14 - Opera House - Toronto, ONT
03/15 - Grog Shop - Cleveland Heights, OH
03/16 - Blue Note - Columbia, MO
03/20 - Granada Theater - Dallas, TX
03/21 - Wired Live - Houston, TX
03/23 - The Social - Orlando, FL
03/24 - Masquerade - Atlanta, GA
03/25 - Tremont Music Hall - Charlotte, NC
03/26 - Greene Street Club - Greensboro, NC
03/27 - The Basement - Columbus, OH
03/28 - First Unitarian Church - Philadelphia, PA
03/29 - Otto Bar - Baltimore, MD
03/30 - Chameleon Club - Lancaster, PA
03/31 - Diesel - Pittsburgh, PA
04/01 - The Eagle Theatre - Pontiac, MI
04/02 - Reggie's Rock Club - Chicago, IL
04/06 - Republik - Calgary, ALB
04/07 - Starlite Room - Edmonton, ALB
04/09 - Rickshaw Theatre - Vancouver, BC
04/10 - El Corazon - Seattle, WA
04/11 - Hawthorne Theater - Portland, OR
04/13 - Glass House - Pomona, CA
04/16 - Coachella - Indio, CA
June 24 - Aug 15 - Warped Tour - www.warpedtour.com

Get the latest Dillinger Escape Plan news at: http://www.myspace.com/dillingerescapeplan

H-Series in 2010

2010-02-23T14:58:00.000-08:00

The newly renovated H-Series is sure to make a lasting impression. Adding to the illustrious design of the H-1001, the guitar now features our classy "F Series" Headstock. Other changes made to the model include a black binding with abalone purfling. The updated H-1001 is available in Black (BLK), as well as See-Through Black Cherry (STBC) with a flamed maple top. Each guitar is equipped with an EMG 81 (Bridge) and 85 (Neck) pickup.

The Floyd Rose 1000 Series Bridge makes the H-1001FR a reliable choice for Floating Tremolo Users. The guitar is available with a See Thru Black Cherry (STBC) finish over a quilted maple top. Like all H-Series LTD Deluxe models, the guitar is composed of a mahogany body, maple neck and rosewood fretboard.

Click HERE for more details

The Norwegian Royal Mail Features KEEP OF KALESSIN on Exclusive Postal Stamp

2010-02-22T14:21:00.000-08:00

ESP signees KEEP OF KALESSIN recently announced the availability of their exclusive postal stamp with the Norwegian Royal Mail. The band took third place in the grand final of the national Eurovision Song Contest called "Melodi Grand Prix", which had taken place at the Spektrum in Oslo on February 6th.

The following is quoted from the KEEP OF KALESSIN myspace page:

“ As one of the artists in Melodi Grand Prix 2010, the norwegian Royal Mail has made stamps with KEEP OF KALESSIN on them. This is normally only done with the royal family or historic figures. The band got the official news and was also delivered the stamps at a small get-together in the home of Per Sundnes (the MGP host) on Friday Feb 5th with all the other MGP 2010 finalists. According to the band this is a big surprise and a huge step for metal in Norway.”

Obsidian C is currently playing various ESPs, including the Eclipse, Jeff Hanneman, LTD JH-600, LTD M-1000 and LTD FM-408. Wizziac can be seen with non other than the LTD F-415.

The Official KEEP OF KALESSIN website can be viewed at http://www.keepofkalessin.no/

ESP Introduces the MH-327

2010-02-11T13:56:00.001-08:00

Unveiled at Winter NAMM 2010, ESP now offers the LTD MH-327. You can downtune or break out the seven string, but what about hitting those extra high notes? This unique 27 Fret Guitar lets you achieve what guitarists have desired for decades! On top of that, the guitar offers a Floyd Rose Special double-locking tremolo. Go whammy bar crazy and still stay in tune! As far as pickups go, the MH-327 includes a Seymour Duncan Hot Rail and Custom 5 pickup w/push-pull coil tap. Two gorgeous finishes are available: Black (w/ White Pearl binding) and See-Through Red (STR) w/ White binding on a flamed maple top. Both models offer a mahogany body, maple neck, and rosewood fingerboard.

Summary:

Neck-Thru-Body Construction
25.5” Scale
Mahogany Body
Flamed Maple Top (STR Finish)
Maple Neck
Rosewood Fingerboard
42mm Locking Nut
Thin U Neck Contour
27 XJ Frets
Black Nickel Hardware
ESP Tuners
Floyd Rose Special Bridge
Seymour Duncan Custom-5 (B) /
Hot Rail (N) p.u.
Push-Pull Coil Tap on Tone Control
Finish: BLK, STR