Pete Finn of MPM and Statler Manson ventured into the hallowed grounds of the Marshall Amplification Factory for an exclusive album launch gig that pulsed with raw musical energy. The event, hosted by the exceptionally talented Arielle, promised a unique experience, and it delivered in spades, showcasing her captivating “guitar pulse” and undeniable keyness to the instrument.
Arielle performing live at Marshall Amplification Factory, showcasing her guitar skills and new album "Reel to Real"
Arielle, a singer-songwriter and musician of considerable depth, has carved a distinctive path in the guitar world. Hailing from New Jersey, her musical journey began in childhood, blossoming from the Peninsula Girls Chorus to a profound connection with the guitar at age ten. This early start ignited a lifelong passion, leading to her “discovery” by guitar virtuoso Nuno Bettencourt of Extreme in 2010. Her talent further garnered the attention of Sir Brian May, who handpicked her for a prominent role in the London production of “We Will Rock You.” The relationship with May extends beyond the stage, with Arielle boasting her own BMG signature guitar, lovingly named ‘Two Tone,’ a tribute to her cherished instrument. Sir Brian himself has publicly lauded Arielle, naming her among his favorite contemporary guitarists in Guitar World, a testament to her growing influence and distinctive “guitar pulse.”
Arielle showcasing her signature BMG "Two Tone" guitar at the Marshall Amplification Factory launch event
The evening’s focus was Arielle’s new vinyl release, ‘Reel to Real,’ an album meticulously crafted for a “Pure Analog Experience.” Recorded at Nashville’s legendary Bomb Shelter studio, every note was captured directly onto 16-track 2-inch tape using vintage equipment. This commitment to analog purity promises listeners a rich, warm sonic landscape, a depth that only vinyl can truly convey, and a genuine representation of Arielle’s raw “guitar pulse.”
Close-up of Arielle's hand playing guitar, emphasizing the analog recording of "Reel to Real" for authentic guitar tone
The performance at Marshall was structured in two distinct sets. The first set was dedicated to a live rendition of tracks from ‘Reel to Real,’ allowing the audience to experience the album’s analog warmth in a live setting. The second set offered a more personal touch, featuring a curated selection of Arielle’s favorite songs, chosen specifically for this intimate gathering. This bespoke approach highlighted Arielle’s versatility and her deep connection to her music.
Arielle and her band performing live at Marshall Performance Room, highlighting the intimate album launch gig
The Marshall Performance Room, adorned with iconic Marshall amps and Natal Drums, provided the perfect backdrop for the event. The presence of fellow artists further amplified the supportive and celebratory atmosphere of this special night.
Audience members and fellow musicians supporting Arielle at her album launch gig in Marshall Performance Room
Arielle, accompanied by her band consisting of Devin North on bass, Cody Moss on keys, and Emma Taylor on drums, launched into the ‘Reel to Real’ set with palpable energy. A brief jam session ignited the atmosphere before transitioning into ‘Back to Being Bad.’ Arielle’s vocals, imbued with a sultry blues inflection, immediately captivated the audience. Moss’s Hammond keys added a rich layer to the sound, while Arielle’s guitar solo, enhanced by a Wah pedal, sent shivers down the spine, showcasing her masterful “guitar pulse.”
Arielle using a Wah pedal during her guitar solo, demonstrating her expressive guitar techniques and "guitar pulse"
‘Mirror of Life’ followed, opening with a delicate piano intro before Arielle’s poignant lyrics took center stage. Her vocal tone, reminiscent of Stevie Nicks, was both powerful and emotive. The arrangement was smooth and engrossing, holding the room in rapt attention. Arielle’s haunting, deliberate guitar solo further intensified the intimate mood, each picked string resonating with feeling.
Arielle delivering emotive vocals and a haunting guitar solo during "Mirror of Life" performance
The energy shifted with ‘Bell-Bottoms & Bel Airs,’ a funk-infused blues instrumental that pulsed with infectious rhythm. Devin North’s bassline was irresistible, compelling listeners to move. The interplay between the Hammond keys and Arielle’s velvety guitar riffs created a dynamic and thoroughly enjoyable sonic journey, highlighting the band’s collective “guitar pulse.”
Arielle band jamming on the funky blues instrumental "Bell-Bottoms & Bel Airs," showing their musical chemistry
Arielle paused to express her gratitude to Marshall Factory, sharing her excitement about the evening. She then introduced ‘Stray Dog,’ a song inspired by a stray dog that wandered into her home, a metaphor for shared feelings of being lost. Her storytelling through song was captivating, supported by Taylor’s steady beat and Moss’s subtle key work, creating a genuinely engaging performance.
Arielle narrating the story behind "Stray Dog" before performing the heartfelt track live
‘Love for Yourself,’ her latest single, commenced with gentle strumming and thoughtful rhythms. This ballad-esque track was delicate and deeply emotional. Arielle’s soothing vocals guided the audience through a personal narrative, her closed eyes conveying the song’s intimacy. The room was hushed, every note and lyric embraced by attentive ears.
Devin North’s bass then introduced a vibrant rendition of ‘These Boots Are Made for Walkin’.’ Arielle, sporting boots mirroring her ‘Two Tone’ guitar, infused Nancy Sinatra’s classic with a rock edge. Faster and heavier than the original, the cover was brimming with distorted riffs and sharp beats. Emma Taylor’s powerful drumming and the band’s collective energy transformed the song into a high-octane, fun-filled rock anthem, a testament to their “guitar pulse.”
Arielle rocking out with a cover of "These Boots Are Made for Walkin'," showcasing her energetic stage presence and "guitar pulse"
Following a brief intermission and a Q&A session with Arielle and Devin North, the band returned for the second set, opening with ‘Digital World’ from her 2021 album ‘Analogue Girl in a Digital World.’ The track, preceded by the ‘Dialup’ intro, featured Arielle’s vocals set against an electronic-tinged backdrop. Rocky and dynamic, the song pulsed with Devin North’s floor-vibrating bass and a mid-section bridge hinting at The Who’s influence. The band’s synergy was undeniable.
Arielle and Devin North engaging in a Q&A session with the audience before the second set
‘This Is Our Intervention,’ also from ‘Analogue Girl in a Digital World,’ highlighted Arielle’s vocal range. Beginning softly, the song escalated into a thrilling rollercoaster of tempo changes, showcasing Arielle’s control and dynamism before reaching a powerful climax.
From her 2023 release ‘’73,’ ‘Somewhere Slow’ delivered a racing rock beat. Arielle’s deeper vocals harmonized with North’s bass, while the jangly guitar riffs layered over Moss’s Hammond keys created a rich, immersive soundscape. The tempo surged as the band unleashed their full power, Emma Taylor and the audience alike nodding along to the infectious rhythm. Arielle, at the stage front, delivered a captivating guitar solo, her “guitar pulse” resonating through the room.
Arielle teasing out a guitar solo during "Somewhere Slow" performance, highlighting her guitar prowess
Staying with ‘’73,’ the title track followed, a fast-paced rocker with driving riffs and heavy beats. Arielle’s playful lyrics, recounting a trip in her magical ’73 time machine bus, were infectious. She delivered both blues and rock solos, pushing her ‘Two Tone’ guitar to its limits, her tremolo arm working overtime. Taylor’s rapid drumming locked perfectly with Arielle’s guitar work, culminating in a powerful finish.
‘You’re Still a Man,’ from ‘Analogue Girl in a Digital World,’ brought a dose of distortion and upbeat energy. A strong riff anchored the track, supporting witty lyrics and a clever guitar solo. Cody Moss injected some Jerry Lee Lewis-esque energy into his keys, clearly delighting the audience. Taylor punctuated the track with a rapid drum flourish.
Cody Moss playing keys with energy, adding to the band's dynamic performance
The summery vibe of ‘Genie’s Outta The Bottle,’ from 2019’s ‘Suspension/Dimension,’ arrived next. A quick riff launched the high-tempo, bouncy track. Rapid beats, Devin North’s energetic bass playing, and Arielle’s swaying stage presence created a lively performance that built to a grand finale.
Arielle interacting with the audience during the upbeat "Genie's Outta The Bottle" performance
For the encore, the band returned with ‘Kalypso,’ the instrumental closer from ‘’73.’ Channeling a 70s funk feel, the track featured heavy beats and gritty guitar work. The guitar tone was powerful and distorted, delivering a true rock sound.
Emma Taylor drumming powerfully during the instrumental track "Kalypso," driving the band's rhythm
Taylor’s drumming intensified the tempo as Arielle moved across the stage, her “guitar pulse” driving the performance. The band’s tight interplay powered through the track, culminating in a final, crunching guitar solo at the stage edge. The performance concluded to enthusiastic cheers and applause, a resounding endorsement of Arielle’s captivating “guitar pulse” and the band’s exceptional musicianship.
Arielle concluding the show with a final guitar solo, leaving the audience energized and impressed
Setlist: Back to Being Bad; Mirror of Life; Bell-Bottoms & Bel Airs; Stray Dog; Love for Yourself; These Boots Are Made for Walkin’; Digital World; This Is Our Intervention; Somewhere Slow; 73; You’re Still a Man; Genie’s Outta The Bottle; Kalypso.
Photography by Manny Manson for MPM
