12 QUESTIONS WITH TIM WEST
Can you give us a brief history of your playing career?
I started playing guitar when I was 10. My dad taught me for several years. I started writing songs pretty much right away. I may have only known four maybe five chords, but I would beat them to the ground until something interesting came up. Around 17, I started playing live with bands and was able to gain a lot of experience. Several years ago I started the band Exit the Ordinary. We released our first full-length record on February 10th.
What inspired you to start playing guitar?
I would say my family. I grew up around music. My parents, aunt & uncle all played in a band together in the 80’s, so guitar, drums, studios and band rehearsals was always something I was used too.
What was your first electric guitar?
It was a Mexican made Fender Stratocaster (which I still have around). It had a rosewood neck with white pickguard and off white body. It has a lot of “character,” but I will never get rid of it.
What are your top 5 favorite records?
Band on the Run – Wings
Imagine – John Lennon
The Colour and the Shape – Foo Fighters
Room on Fire – The Strokes
Parachutes – Coldplay
What was the proudest moment and/or performance of your playing career?
Well, one time after playing a festival out east a group of teenagers came up to me wanting to know the chords of a song I wrote. I think it’s great if what you do can inspire younger musicians to play their instrument.
How did you hear about Reverend?
I heard about Reverend from a great local guitar shop in Eastpointe, MI called Joe’s Music Quarters. Unfortunately, I had to wait quite a while until the left-handed models were made, but it was worth the wait.
What Reverend guitar(s) are you using?
I’m playing the Jetstream HB (Left-Handed).
What do you like about your Reverend guitar(s)?
I really love its dynamics. You can really translate the emotion of what you are playing with this guitar. It is extremely well made and looks incredible. I just recently used it in a music video.
What amps and pedals do you currently use?
I have been using a Fender Twin and a Marshall. Both amps are all tube with two 12” speaker combos. I actually use both amps at the same time in a live environment. It provides me with a contrast of sounds. I use a real basic pedal setup. A Boss TU-2 tuner and a Boss DD-20 Giga Delay, which also acts as a stereo “Y” to send the signal to both amps.
Do you have any unusual hobbies, skills, or pastimes you'd like to share with us?
Well, I can juggle does that count?
Do you have any advice for up and coming players?
Work hard and be open to continually learn new things. Also, play with people. It’s import to work with other musicians. Don’t be afraid to play simple. Not every song is meant to have a massive solo. Do what is best for the song!
Please tell us about any of your current projects, tours, cds, etc. we should know about:
I’m really excited about our new record. It releases February 10th in Best Buy stores and online at iTunes, Amazon MP3, emusic, etc… We will also be touring throughout this year in support of the record.
