Thank you to Prashant for taking the time to do this interview for Guitar Noize.

You recently did some clinics here in Australia, was that to promote the new Xtone guitars?

PA: Not just the X-Tones but the LTD and ESP lines as well.

How do the X-Tones compare with your regular ESP models? Have you used them on
the new album?

PA: The X-Tones are a semi-hollow body guitar. It has a very warm tone and sustains beautifully. I do use these guitars for recording cleans as well as for melodies and leads. I have been enjoying the tone. The neck is like so modern and it makes playability effortless.

Do you modify your guitars at all or are they stock?

PA: I use several different models that ESP makes. I typically don't modify the standard models. ESP's line is so diverse that I don't have to make any mods. However, I get them set up the way I like and plug in and play. I do swap out the pickups for Dimarzio. PAF Pro in the bridge and Humbucker from Hell in the neck.

Do you have a signature model?

PA: Yes. I do have custom models that play. My current model is a custom shop design. The neck is designed to my specs. It is very easy to play. I have a new prototype being made that I will be using next year. The shape is between a strat and an ESP M-2 model. Body wood is made of Alder and Floyd Rose Bridge. The neck will remain the same. I am very excited about this new guitar!

Are you still teaching at GIT? How long have you been/were you an instructor there?

PA: I left GIT last year. It was a great experience. I am now producing some of my students demos. Look for Evan Allis's EP to be out next year.

Are there any particular exercises that you turn to when you’ve had a break and need to get your chops back up to speed?

PA: I don't play any specific exercises to build up my chops. I do have a practice routine that I follow which consists of playing over backing tracks. The tempos are varied and so are the chord changes. This sort of practice helps me get new ideas and my technique naturally develops from there.

I read that you are producing the new album “Time” yourself or is Greg Howe still involved?

PA: Yes, I am producing a new album now. I have to finish tracking guitars and bass so I can get it mixed. I have some great players recorded and I am very enthusiastic about finishing up.

What can we expect from the new album?

PA: The new album has tabla and drums together. The Indian influence is heavy combined with my grooves. I am always going for something different and I think got it this time around.

Has your gear setup changed much from the first 2 albums?

PA: Yes. I am always changing my set up and rig. As I write different types f music I change my tones to get the correlating vibe. The most important constant is my guitar and my amp.

Are there any collaborations or special guests on “Time”?

PA: Yes there are. For now I would like to keep it a surprise.

When is “Time” due to be released?

PA: Early 2009.

Do you own any crazy design guitars? If so what is the weirdest?

PA: My ESP custom guitars are the craziest guitars I have. Anything designed to my specs always blows me away.

When are you coming back to Australia!? Next time you have to come to Sydney!

PA: Not sure when I will be back. Hope to after th release of my new CD. And yes playing in Sydney would be my honour!

Prashant Aswani – official site
Prashant Aswani – MySpace