Nina Garcia, a gifted French guitarist once known as Mariachi, is transforming the landscape of noise guitar.
In a recent conversation, she shared insights into her creative journey, her approach to gear, and the personal evolution that inspired her latest album, Bye Bye Bird, a project that has been a decade in the making.
Innovative Techniques and Equipment
Garcia wields a G&L Tribute guitar, and her unique style sets her apart in a realm where many musicians treat their instruments delicately, coaxing out harmonious melodies.
Instead, Garcia embraces the role of a sonic explorer.
Her music bursts forth with high energy, as she extracts raw, unrefined sounds from her trusty guitar, drawing parallels to artists like Bill Orcutt and Viv Albertine.
A significant facet of her sound comes from her manipulation of an electromagnetic pickup with her right hand.
This technique allows Garcia to engage deeply with her guitar, producing an impressive spectrum of sounds—ranging from sharp squeaks to gravelly growls.
She often flips her guitar to its back, using this positioning to deftly navigate the fretboard while also adjusting volume and tone settings.
This approach underscores her belief that the guitar’s body and neck can generate compelling noises just as much as the strings.
Watching Garcia with her beloved G&L T-style guitar is akin to witnessing a sculptor at work.
She highlights every sound-producing possibility of the instrument, showcasing a fearless desire to push the limits of musical expression.
This dedication has earned her accolades from renowned figures like Thurston Moore, who has dubbed her a “secret weapon” in the world of noise guitar.
A Shift in Direction
While Garcia is celebrated for her improvisational skills, her recent project represents a new direction: the creation of cohesive solo guitar pieces for Bye Bye Bird.
This album marks a significant shift from her earlier work.
For Garcia, each composition embodies a personal journey, signifying a moment of self-discovery and artistic authenticity.
Garcia’s exploration in these solo guitar pieces not only showcases her technical prowess but also her emotional depth, inviting listeners to experience the nuances of her creative evolution.
This venture parallels themes found in Mary Spender’s debut breakup album, where each track serves as a testament to resilience and rebirth.
As Garcia delves deeper into her musical identity, the interplay of her past influences and current expressions creates a rich tapestry that resonates with her audience.
In discussing her process, Garcia noted that her earlier performances were largely spontaneous.
However, for this album, she recognized the necessity of establishing a framework while still embracing improvisational elements.
Even with this structure, she liberates herself from rigid forms of harmony and rhythm, allowing creativity to flow naturally.
Garcia credits her artistic evolution to the rich tapestry of influences she encountered after moving from southern France’s rock scene to the vibrant Parisian music community.
This transition not only exposed her to diverse genres but also prompted her to experiment with unconventional sounds and techniques, significantly enriching her noise repertoire.
Embracing Discovery and Innovation
Initially, her setup was quite simple, but as she has honed her artistry, it has become more sophisticated.
Her gear now includes the G&L Tribute ASAT Special, MXR distortion pedal, volume pedal, and a Fender Twin tube amp.
Additionally, a mobile pickup, a gift from artist Andy Guhl, adds a distinctive touch.
Garcia’s philosophy leans toward simplicity; she values a direct connection with her instrument over a complicated array of effects.
This hands-on approach allows her to explore sound nuances, unveiling new rhythmic potential.
The electromagnetic pickup opens a world of creativity for her, despite the challenges it presents, such as the need for fine motor control.
Yet, the delicate nature of the sounds it produces encourages her to dive deeper into sonic experimentation.
When reflecting on her identity, Garcia emphasizes her core as a guitarist and musician, deeply engaged in the tactile joy of play.
Her artistic journey thrives on the exhilaration of discovery, where each session brings forth raw sensations and unexpected moments.
Through the making of Bye Bye Bird, she embraces the hurdles of her craft, consciously stepping away from familiar patterns to maintain a sense of freshness and authenticity.
This approach infuses her work with vitality, honesty, and a liberating spirit that keeps her inspired.
Her friendship with Thurston Moore, whom she opened for back in 2017, has fostered mutual respect within the artistic community.
Moore’s recognition of her talents in noise guitar has encouraged her to continue pushing her boundaries further.
With anticipation building for the release of Bye Bye Bird on February 21 through Ideologic Organ, Nina Garcia is ready to unveil her inventive spirit to listeners around the world.
By channeling her distinct artistic voice into her work, she invites everyone to join her on a journey into the captivating realm of noise guitar.