Key takeaway: The Aria bass guitar, notably associated with Cliff Burton, represents a fusion of innovative design and cultural significance in music history. This instrument's legacy continues to inspire musicians, making it an essential topic for fans and enthusiasts alike.
Aria bass guitar is a popular brand among musicians, known for its high-quality instruments and unique design. One of the most famous users of Aria bass guitars was American musician Cliff Burton, best known as the bassist for the heavy metal band Metallica.
Throughout his career, Burton used various models of Aria bass guitars, showcasing their versatility and durability. In this article, we will take a closer look at some of the iconic Aria bass guitar models that Cliff Burton played during his time with Metallica.
We will also explore the history and features of each model to understand why they were chosen by one of the greatest rock musicians of all time.
Rickenbacker 4001
The Rickenbacker 4001 was the first Aria bass guitar that Cliff Burton used with Metallica. This model is known for its distinctive cresting-wave body shape, making it easily recognizable on stage. It features two pickups and a unique neck-through-body construction, giving it a rich and powerful sound.
Burton’s use of the Rickenbacker 4001 can be heard in iconic Metallica tracks such as “For Whom the Bell Tolls” and “Master of Puppets.” Its smooth playability and versatile tone made it perfect for the heavy riffs and melodic solos that were a trademark of Burton’s playing style.
Alembic Spoiler Bass
The next Aria bass guitar that Cliff Burton added to his collection was the Alembic Spoiler Bass. This model was known for its custom inlay designs and high-quality craftsmanship. It featured an active electronics system and a unique body shape, giving it a modern and futuristic look.
Burton used the Alembic Spoiler Bass during Metallica’s “Black Album” era, showcasing its capabilities in tracks like “Sad But True” and “Enter Sandman.” Its punchy tone and sleek design made it a favourite among both fans and musicians alike.
Morley Power Wah Boost PWB
Apart from bass guitars, Cliff Burton was also known for his use of various effects pedals to enhance his sound. One of the most iconic pedals used by Burton was the Morley Power Wah Boost PWB. This pedal combined a wah-wah effect with a built-in overdrive, giving Burton’s bass solos a distinct and powerful sound.
Metallica’s live performances of “Orion” and “For Whom the Bell Tolls” featured Burton’s use of this pedal, showcasing its versatility and unique tone. Its compact design and easy-to-use controls made it a staple in Burton’s pedalboard.
Gibson EB-0 Bass
The Gibson EB-0 Bass was another model that Cliff Burton experimented with during his time with Metallica. This short-scale bass guitar featured a dual-pickup system and a solid mahogany body, giving it a warm and full-bodied tone.
Burton used the Gibson EB-0 Bass on Metallica’s early albums such as “Kill ‘Em All” and “Ride the Lightning.” Its compact design made it easy for Burton to move around on stage while still delivering powerful riffs and booming bass lines.
Fender Precision Bass
Last but not least, we have the Fender Precision Bass, which is considered by many as the most iconic Aria bass guitar played by Cliff Burton. This model featured a split-coil pickup and a maple neck, giving it a bright and distinctive sound.
Burton used the Fender Precision Bass throughout his career with Metallica, often customizing it with stickers and other personal touches. Its versatility and durability made it the perfect choice for Burton’s energetic playing style and contributed to its status as an iconic bass guitar in rock music history.
FAQ
Did Cliff Burton only use Aria bass guitars during his time with Metallica?
No, while Aria bass guitars were his go-to instruments, Burton also experimented with other brands such as Rickenbacker, Alembic, Gibson, and Fender.
Are Aria bass guitars still popular among musicians today?
Yes, Aria continues to produce high-quality instruments and has a dedicated following among musicians worldwide.
Did Cliff Burton have a preferred type of Aria bass guitar?
While he used various models, the Fender Precision Bass was often seen as Burton’s favorite due to its versatility and iconic status.
Conclusion: aria bass guitar cliff burton
In summary, Cliff Burton’s association with various Aria bass guitars and their iconic models has left an indelible mark on the world of rock music. Each instrument he played, from the Rickenbacker 4001 to the Fender Precision Bass, contributed uniquely to his groundbreaking sound and powerful stage presence.
Burton’s innovative playing style and use of effects, such as the Morley Power Wah Boost PWB, allowed him to push the boundaries of what bass guitar could achieve in heavy metal. His legacy continues to inspire musicians today, and the instruments he chose remain celebrated for their quality and craftsmanship.
As we reflect on Burton’s contributions, it becomes clear that his choice of instruments played a crucial role in defining not only his career but also the evolution of music during his era.