I do love a good music documentary and it can be about the history of gear as well as musicians. I heard about this one on Chasing Tone from Wampler effects. Brian Wampler makes a few appearances.
This documentary tells the story of how early innovators came up with effects that inspired musicians to explore new sounds. Some originated with faulty equipment causing distortion, but it became part of music. It traces how various early companies developed with some becoming massive and then the rise of 'boutique' pedal companies in recent years who keep the innovation going whilst engaging more with the players. There is a section at the end that talks to and about some the women who are part of this industry which is mostly white males. I think it is important to embrace diversity.
There are interviews with loads of pedal builders and players with lots of demonstrations. There is just so much to take in and I really enjoyed it all. Top players such as Steve Vai, Paul Gilbert and Billy Corgan talk passionately about these little metal boxes. I think that passion is a big part of what makes the movie so entertaining. It is not all dry talk of transistors and capacitors.
It does make me want more effects for my colleciton. I just have a few, but there is still more to explore with those. Of course playing technique is vital, but sounds can inspire you.
I rented this movie on Google and it is available on some other platforms.
Rock on!
