@@CRP2426 i believe CZcams likes to promote channels to the masses if the people who see that channel like it and interact with it in positive ways. It’s the least we can do to help I think
Great video Justin! Love the EDC chat, this is the un-glamorous stuff that working players need to think about - especially hygiene, food/water, and hearing protection. Absolutely crucial stuff. On tour, I used to always have a power bank charger, USB flash drive (in case the venue has a board that can record our set), spare batteries for pedals, small extension cord, and mints/gum/mouth-wash in my Mono Tick bag. Super useful stuff to have on hand. Also that Polytune is great - it was my only tuner when I was gigging an Esquire straight into a cranked Carr Rambler with no pedals. Very accurate and reliable!
What a great video- not just because of the gear, but because of the insight into who you are and what you value (family, nutrition, etc.) I was hooked as soon as you mentioned making your kitchen island. All the gear and tools I carry, whether for guitar, biking, backpacking, etc. is because I've been hosed at one point or another. As others have mentioned, I also carry a fingernail clipper and file given that I'm mainly a hybrid picker. There's nothing worse that getting a jagged or chipped nail halfway through a set. Finally, I also carry a toothbrush, but not for my teeth. It's to clean a guitar nut in case the strings start getting hung up on it. Thanks for all the great videos!
The 5.11 packs are great but they can raise a few eyebrows from people who expect you to be packing. They come in navy, tan, and black and with a guitar maker's patch look a lot less tactical. The D'addario packs are ok but the 5.11 have a LOT of pockets and more room. A small pack of unscented baby wipes works quicker, easier, and better than soap and paper towels in a bathroom. I had no idea they made a mod for the Arion chorus. Definitely going to have to look into that for mine. Things I think you could use in your pack: -Small 1st aid kit even if it's some Neosporin and bandaids. -StewMac tool kit (especially since they dropped it from $60 to $35) and spanner tool. -Breath mints or gum, not just the tin for picks. It's really great to see a musician actively promoting a healthy lifestyle as far as what's used in and on one's body.
This is great! my tour bag looks quite similar. Some other things i carry in mine are: a boss GE7, a Rag, some of these little rubber rings you can use to fix your guitar strap to the pin, but i like to put them under some of the knobs of my pedals so they don't change settings when i accidentally step on them. Recent addition: a Stretcha (coz there's nothing worse than wearing out your fingertips from string stretching right before a gig), a couple 9 volt batteries, a small roll of ducttape and a spare sm57, which i actually had use for more often than i would think :)
Great video, Justin! Only additional things I carry would be gum/mints (when you can’t brush your teeth), Tylenol/Alleve for headaches or muscle pain, and a roll of 1” gaffer tape.
+1 As an engineer, my session bag ALWAYS has Tylenol/ Advil and non-drowsy allergy meds. Doing sessions during allergy season in Tennessee… it’s a life saver. I’d add several extra 1/8” to 1/4” adapters for cans
Just subscribed, sorry for taking so long. "Pretty valuable content" is the understatement of the century! Love this channel and watch all of your videos. Really appreciate how much of your experience and insight you share with all of us fans...this video and the "Following this one rule..." were both killer. Thank you!!
Nail clippers, wet wipes, paracetamol, eye drops, T21 flyrig pedal & psu in case the amp burns down, elecrtrical extension lead, A4 paper and sharpie, sunnies in case of bright lights (on stage), hat in case there are cameras and I'm having a bad hair (well, stubble) day, spare strap and universal straplocks, mints.
Great Recommends as I just ordered the Capo & D'Addario finger fumbler just getting completed on years of learning the guitar at 66 at did all the hard work earlier starting in 2015. Got say this channel is Invaluable (including the commenters) to knowing what professional players do in studio work.
Thank you for the great video! I added a couple of things to my D’Addario Backline bag after this. One thing I thing is super useful is my Fender Mustang Micro. It’s $100, is rechargeable, and has great tones for what it is. It’s a killer practice amp when you’re sitting there waiting for another person to finish tracking or running over parts in the green room before a show. I always always always keep a power strip.
Love the water tangent - the Shipps’ have an osmosis filter in our house and now I can’t go back. Huge difference. Gotta have the half gallon too. I get super cranky without it now, hahaha
I always have extra cables. I also carry a wire stripper, solder, and a soldering iron. I'm old and studios and bars are dark so I carry a small LED flashlight everywhere. I usually keep it in either my shirt pocket or on my belt. I use it a lot. I have a fishing tackle box I carry that has all my miscellaneous tools like pliers, Exacto knife, side cutters, etc. I'm an engineer as well so I carry extra male and female XLR plugs, 1/4" TS and TRS plugs, extra amp fuses, batteries and such. That's where the tackle box comes in handy. It has a lot of different compartments for different things and keeps them organized.
I have a case like that, too. All my pedalboards now have an AC out, and a USB charger built into them. Lifesaver:) Some of the weirder things - I always carry a soldering gun/solder. Steel wool. A socket that fits guitar Jack. Rechargeable 9V, with charger. Apple cables, and mini USB cables. A small electric drill.
I stumbled across your channel because you bought one of Uncle Larry’s guitars. Very glad I found you. Like him, you’re very humble, knowledgeable, and practical. I don’t do studio work, but I gig ALL the time. The only things I always carry (in my Home Depot cheapie tool briefcase) that you don’t, are a couple of vocal mics, wireless transmitters, short power cords, and mic cords. Oh yeah, and some 600 and 800 grit wet and dry sandpaper for fine tuning picks.
Awesome! Yeah, my extra cables stay in another bag that lives in my vehicle. I have instrument cables and speaker cables of various lengths. It’s just a lot of extra weight that I very rarely need, so it doesn’t come into the studio with me.
1968 is amazing. Just picked one up a few weeks ago. I've had like 10+ different vibe pedals--everything from the cheap stuff all the way to things like the Vibe Machine. The Kingtone 1968 gets it done.
Great video! I saw a few folks mention a nail file, and my other essential is *small* sticky notes. I mainly do musical theatre gigs where each production makes different changes to the written parts - brightly colored sticky notes are a great way to mark cuts or extra repeats into the sheet music.
Great one. Thanks Justin. Guess I'm on the right track as this looks really similar to what I pack. You probably don't need this stuff but I always pack a 57, mic cable, instrument cable, small Furman power supply/conditioner /surge protector to drop right next to my board, Radial DI, nail clippers, post its, 9volts and Gorilla tape. I usually grab a pedal that does something freaky like the Mood or some such jic. Thanks for the tip on deodorant and toothbrush!
I carry a lot of the same things you have in yours but also have a small flashlight, a roll of Velcro tie strips, extension cord, clips to hold charts to a music stand…
Someone has probably said it it but nail clippers are almost never mentioned. I have started keeping them in my guitar case. A small med kit is useful: ibuprofen, reactine, daytime cold medication (if you're getting over something and still feeling off), cough drops, benadryl, package of tissues.
I got the headphones you recommended, so awesome. I live in a condo high rise, and if I want to have long practices, I need to use cans. Thanks for your videos.
Love the Grandpa / leatherman story! My late father (also a guitarist), would pass along some of his old pocket knives to family as he got older. I'm not sure if it was an old southern tradition or not but if he gave you one of his knives, you had to give him penny in return. Thanks for sharing your family story and of course your EDC studio kit.
Leatherman headquarters is just down the road from me. In my kit you'll also find: Gorilla tape, wire ties, emery board and clippers, flashlight, needle nose pliers, extra phone charger cable, body wipes and a lighter. Good stuff Justin!
I love this video Justin. Super cool window into your world. I love the misc commentary on nutrition, added sugars, good water, and your grandfather. Really feel like I got to know you better. Btw we are water snobs too, it makes such a huge difference. It’s my dream to one day hire you to help me make a record of the songs I’ve been writing the past decade. Keep up the awesome work and thank you for doing the CZcams channel. It’s a light in my life.
Very interesting upload. You remind me of a keyboard player I worked with who had everything with him on gigs. I was always amazed when we turned up at gigs, no drinks in dressing room, he had tea, coffee and water flasks. I remember in a particularly cold dressing room he produced an electric heater,😂😂😂 oh and he could play ever standard ever written .
For ANYONE that uses a tube amp: I always carry some sort of electrical outlet tester. These are very cheap but are invaluable. Buy one and USE it before you plug in ANYTHING. I have played many gigs in places that have “dirty power” or outlets that are not wired correctly or improperly grounded. Let me tell you, this can be VERY bad for a tube amp, not to mention a complex pedal board.
Thanks so much for sharing this video. I have been injured for a few years with pinched nerves in the neck and shoulder, leaving me very little time or ability to play much more than a few minutes here and there. Seeing your video reminded me of how excited I used to get packing up stuff to play a local gig at the coffee house down the street. Turns out there is a 511 tactical store right around the corner from where we buy groceries every week, and I never knew it until I was researching your backpack. I snagged one like yours. Dude asked where I found out about their gear, and I said from a Nashville session guy on CZcams. He was really surprised. I accepted a gig in October,and I’m hoping my body will respond as I attempt to get back in the saddle. Thanks for the inspiration, and keep the vids coming.
Sage advice on the hearing protection. I’m 44 and have tinnitus. Thankfully it doesn’t drive me totally mad, but it sucks to have ringing 24/7. Love the channel! Thanks for all the great content.
I tend to carry a small bottle of pot cleaner/lube like Deoxit or a similar brand and also a little package of baby wipes. Getting a beer and wings during lunch can sometimes get a little messy and you never know when you are gonna need to shake someone's hand. Your channel is slowly becoming one of my favorites.
511 makes some pretty good bags for this type of stuff. I have the 72 hour rush for work, but my little go to bag for a quick pedal board go is what 511 calls their tactical bail out bag. It has a shoulder sling one center pouch where I can throw a bunch of cables and some pedals as well as three pouches in the front that most guitar pedals will fit in and pouch on either end for whatever. I actually use it way more for guitar related equipment that I do for shooting.
How fwiggin’ cool is this video you made for us??? Right in your kitchen too!!! Thank you, thank you, thank you!!! So I saw this on my feed the other night & was like…”EDC? Guitar tools? Half an hour???” I just got to it. I just subscribed too, btw, & am hooked dude. I went & got a Craftsman tool box(Made in USA!) just for all my stuff I have laying around the house. This is great stuff! I’m gunna add a small socket set to mine just for input jacks & stuff like that. Screw drivers, strings, picks, polishing cloths. Painters tape (for acoustic bridges)…all stuff we all need anyway to change strings. Like the capo & will try one out. No kidding about how helpful this is!!! Cheers everyone!!! 🎸🇺🇸
That is a beautiful kitchen island! 5.11 Tactical bags are cool. Personally, I use Maxpedition stuff. Try Pentel Energel pens. Nicer than the G7s and they don't clog.
Another great warm up tool for the drive - Baoding Balls (without the chime / bells) work/warm up both opening and closing muscles. Where as those squeeze tools work/ warm up Closing muscles only.
I love this, as a working musician in new york you HAVE to have something like this as well. Mine also doubles as a suitcase so ill have extra things for gigs like extra tie, shoes if i have to change and a hx stomp (used as a backup rig, im a helix guy),Foldable guitar stand, and ipad stand. I keep extra cables in mine as well.
As a non-pro with one steady ongoing gig . . . my Helix bag and my guitar gig bag carry all my essentials. I happen to also have a nice pretty G7th capo -- bought it at Gruhn's, my memento from a Nashville/Music Row visit. Besides the obvious things that we all need and that you listed . . . I gotta have my nail clippers. I also have a Boss wireless, and extra cables as backup. And I contemplated getting up on the roof last week and decided against it. :)
Man, just tripped along your channel, subscribed and binging! Awesome sauce. Would LOVE to spend an hour or two with you next time I’m in Nashville (in a non-stalkery way - no selfies). Maybe guitar shopping @ Rumble Seat or Carters? ;) And so glad a pro cat like you dislikes compressors as much as I do.
So great to see, that we European "sessioneers" carry almost the same gadgets with us here too. 😃 I, for my part, also always have some (voltage checked) spare 9V batteries, a replacement T-Shirt and a fresh towel. Also I have a piece of Furr (no kidding...) with me that I put between my Tigh and the acoustic, when I'm wearing Jeans in order to avoid any squeeks or other noises. Keep on posting your great content. It's so great so see that, even if we live on different continents, the challenges are pretty much the same all over the world. Love my job! 😃
Man I really like the idea of the fur under the acoustic! I just do not move until the last note has rang out for longer than I think the producer will want it to.
Justin - the most riveting part for me (since I am also cutting out sugar) was your talk around the Rx bar and the aspect of all the foods with added sugar. All the guitar stuff was cool too, don't get me wrong. I'm a fan. I heard something a few years ago that I like - "Amateurs remember, but professionals write it down". Good job with the note pad.
Thanks for being so upfront! Life threw me a curveball 3 years ago, the C word appeared, so now in my carryall bag (which is a Carhart tool bag), I have to carry an extra Urostomy pouch and supplies. I always have a fear of having an 'accident' live on stage! But hey...on the good side, I can now do those 'real long' sets, without the urgency! Also, a small bottle of talc powder....when my guitar neck and hand are arguing ;) Thanks, always enjoy your videos....
Totally. My fingernail clippers are always in my vehicle. I’ve never thought of wipes for sweaty hands. I have the world’s driest hands. Guitars love it; wife hates it. 😂
For gigs, I have an old Shure MRB bag that carries all the important stuff. Lots of little pockets for strings, batteries etc. It's great. Can be worn as a backpack or as a satchel. I believe they recently discontinued them though.
It’s so interesting that you and Tom Bukovac get such balanced tone without a compressor. I’ve got a Cali76 that I love but maybe I need to explore playing without it a little.
I always have a variety of picks since they can EQ your guitar especially in acoustic land. I have ALOT of picks for that reason. A thicker pick on an acoustic will make it low mid heavy, and a super thin nylon pick will make that producer pleasing 'guitar as tambourine' sheen. Eastern European coin based picks can sound great on a triolian National style Dobro. Ibanez Sand Grip Wizard pick gives what I call the Plexi In Your Face smack/bark.. We are all tone hunting in different yet similar ways.....
This is the most un-rock-n-roll CZcams video I've ever seen and I love it! Thanks for keeping it real. I don't think we've ever met before, my days recording in Nashville were in August of 2002, but if you happen to know William Tyler or Loney John Hutchins, then they would probably vouch for me the that I am only 48% asshole. Love your channel. Keep em coming. You rock!
Weird but I recommend Harbor Freight for getting cheap carrying bags. I have 2 from there, one for guitar related stuff (cables, IEMs, etc)and the other for PA items.
Ah, finally! I have just not been able to appreciate compressors. And, I think you touched on it, exactly, dynamics. I played for the first decade plus only on acoustic. And now, after another twenty or so (dating myself), I still cannot enjoy a compressor in the chain. I feel like it only takes away. If I want compression, well, I have tubes to do that for me. I know it sounds a bit snobbish, but that’s how I see it.
Best part was the Grandpa story! BTW, have you tried the FX Engineering comp? It's often referred to as"the compressor for people who hate compressors". Just ask John Leventhal. SoundPure in Durham, NC stocks them.
@@JustinOstrander I think youd like it. I know about it from Eddie Berman at SoundPure. Eddie hipped Leventhal to it. John talks about it on his TrueTone Lounge interview with Zac.
I really enjoy your content! This has become one of my top channels to watch. You've mentioned that you know Uncle Larry, if you do an episode with or about him in the title, I think you will get a ton of views...
Data such as this is ALWAYS priceless. Re:tuners. I’ve become enchanted with the D’Adarrio usb chargeable tuners. (So far they’ve been pretty decent about the low E tho on occasion it’s showing up as the B overtone.) Re:Tools. Similar situation tho, I tend to leave guit-specific tools in their cases due to phenomena like the “core” PRS truss wrench is useless on “SE” instruments. Same kinda goes for Mastery trem hex stuff. (Tho I’ve been able to make up a couple sets as that data is available.) Re:cases: My small board is a temple audio 17 inch duo that fits PERFECTLY in a Harbor Freight “4800” case (their pelican knockoff which goes fits overhead bins quite nicely) and pairs very well their “5800” which is similar but slimmer and has a telescoping handle and wheels I use in the same fashion you do you backpack. This pairing has been tested “internationally”.
That’s really great info, especially regarding the HF cases. Thanks! Regarding tools, my guitars rotate in and out of the same few gig bags I always carry so it makes more sense for me to keep all the tools in one place. Cheers!
@@JustinOstrander I concur with your approach. It’s just a couple that have the “strangeness” I need order a gross of those gibby screwdriver/wrench critters. They somehow have a true knack for being left out of cases!
Cool video! Some really good ideas. I always overpack lol. I try to bring a couple of batteries and 9v power supplies, just in case, and I always bring my old Zoom H2 recorder with rechargeable batteries. 🙂
Thanks for sharing Justin.....and i feel ya on the sugary food thing. I play/perform much better when im on top of my diet, and added sugar is unfortunately everywhere!
Two things I ALWAYS carry that you don't is a nail clipper (I can't stand my left hand especially) my nails long and getting in my way when I'm fretting. With that is a decent metal file from Amazon. They are in every guitar pocket, bag/case or even pedal board kit. I have a pedal board arrangement for both acoustic and electric. (Someone mentioned "mints"....that too.
Emory boards and my new hack for outdoors gigs in humid climates- a small spray bottle of WD-40. Works better than lemon oil on the fretboard without buildup.
Also, when gigging with a modeler having a direct box with a ground lift seems to work better than a 3-2 prong adapter. Maybe because of the transformer.
This channel may have inspired viewers to look for other guitar player's channels, so Uncle Larry and Tim Pierce may have benefitted from your efforts here.
I can't believe you said "lots of guitar players have Altoids cans" for keeping picks in. I've never heard of anyone doing that, have never seen it in 50 years of playing. Yet I have one next to me filled with picks. That made me lol, but it's also scary somehow.
Thanks for solving this great French mystery: what are American kitchens for? 😂 Anyway, your channel is very helpful, thank you so much for sharing your gear, tips and analysis.
This comment is solely for the algorithm to know that I love this channel
So i've been following Justin for a while and seen almost every video and liked them. But i don't comment often. Would that really help Justin?
@@CRP2426 i believe CZcams likes to promote channels to the masses if the people who see that channel like it and interact with it in positive ways. It’s the least we can do to help I think
Thanks a ton! I don’t know exactly how it all works, but I’m confident it doesn’t hurt 🤠
Well if it might help I’ll comment as well. Love this channel
Heck yes !!.. coolest channel I've stumbled across in recent memory. 🍻
2 more things to add to this great list that I can't go without: Altoids box with actual Altoids in them. And a Sharpie!
Great video Justin!
Love the EDC chat, this is the un-glamorous stuff that working players need to think about - especially hygiene, food/water, and hearing protection. Absolutely crucial stuff.
On tour, I used to always have a power bank charger, USB flash drive (in case the venue has a board that can record our set), spare batteries for pedals, small extension cord, and mints/gum/mouth-wash in my Mono Tick bag. Super useful stuff to have on hand.
Also that Polytune is great - it was my only tuner when I was gigging an Esquire straight into a cranked Carr Rambler with no pedals. Very accurate and reliable!
Thanks! A third of my backpack was dedicated to hygiene and munchies.
What a great video- not just because of the gear, but because of the insight into who you are and what you value (family, nutrition, etc.) I was hooked as soon as you mentioned making your kitchen island. All the gear and tools I carry, whether for guitar, biking, backpacking, etc. is because I've been hosed at one point or another. As others have mentioned, I also carry a fingernail clipper and file given that I'm mainly a hybrid picker. There's nothing worse that getting a jagged or chipped nail halfway through a set. Finally, I also carry a toothbrush, but not for my teeth. It's to clean a guitar nut in case the strings start getting hung up on it. Thanks for all the great videos!
I keep a One Spot or two, some guitar/string cleaner and a microfiber cloth, and dude, a flask.
The 5.11 packs are great but they can raise a few eyebrows from people who expect you to be packing. They come in navy, tan, and black and with a guitar maker's patch look a lot less tactical. The D'addario packs are ok but the 5.11 have a LOT of pockets and more room.
A small pack of unscented baby wipes works quicker, easier, and better than soap and paper towels in a bathroom.
I had no idea they made a mod for the Arion chorus. Definitely going to have to look into that for mine.
Things I think you could use in your pack:
-Small 1st aid kit even if it's some Neosporin and bandaids.
-StewMac tool kit (especially since they dropped it from $60 to $35) and spanner tool.
-Breath mints or gum, not just the tin for picks.
It's really great to see a musician actively promoting a healthy lifestyle as far as what's used in and on one's body.
Ha. Yeah I totally get that it is advertising a different kind of gear inside. Maybe I should’ve got black or gray. It’s such a great pack.
This is great! my tour bag looks quite similar. Some other things i carry in mine are: a boss GE7, a Rag, some of these little rubber rings you can use to fix your guitar strap to the pin, but i like to put them under some of the knobs of my pedals so they don't change settings when i accidentally step on them. Recent addition: a Stretcha (coz there's nothing worse than wearing out your fingertips from string stretching right before a gig), a couple 9 volt batteries, a small roll of ducttape and a spare sm57, which i actually had use for more often than i would think :)
Great video, Justin! Only additional things I carry would be gum/mints (when you can’t brush your teeth), Tylenol/Alleve for headaches or muscle pain, and a roll of 1” gaffer tape.
+1
As an engineer, my session bag ALWAYS has Tylenol/ Advil and non-drowsy allergy meds. Doing sessions during allergy season in Tennessee… it’s a life saver.
I’d add several extra 1/8” to 1/4” adapters for cans
Enjoyed the video! Some items not listed that I carry are fingernail clippers, a cloth to wipe strings, and a power surge protector. Thanks!
Just subscribed, sorry for taking so long. "Pretty valuable content" is the understatement of the century! Love this channel and watch all of your videos. Really appreciate how much of your experience and insight you share with all of us fans...this video and the "Following this one rule..." were both killer. Thank you!!
ditto. Just found this channel this past week. I'm not in the business, but I love the insights anyway.
Nail clippers, wet wipes, paracetamol, eye drops, T21 flyrig pedal & psu in case the amp burns down, elecrtrical extension lead, A4 paper and sharpie, sunnies in case of bright lights (on stage), hat in case there are cameras and I'm having a bad hair (well, stubble) day, spare strap and universal straplocks, mints.
Great Recommends as I just ordered the Capo & D'Addario finger fumbler just getting completed on years of learning the guitar at 66 at did all the hard work earlier starting in 2015. Got say this channel is Invaluable (including the commenters) to knowing what professional players do in studio work.
Thank you for the great video! I added a couple of things to my D’Addario Backline bag after this. One thing I thing is super useful is my Fender Mustang Micro. It’s $100, is rechargeable, and has great tones for what it is. It’s a killer practice amp when you’re sitting there waiting for another person to finish tracking or running over parts in the green room before a show. I always always always keep a power strip.
Oh…and nail clippers, a DI box, spare phone charger, and a can of spray sunblock.
Love the water tangent - the Shipps’ have an osmosis filter in our house and now I can’t go back. Huge difference. Gotta have the half gallon too. I get super cranky without it now, hahaha
I always have extra cables. I also carry a wire stripper, solder, and a soldering iron. I'm old and studios and bars are dark so I carry a small LED flashlight everywhere. I usually keep it in either my shirt pocket or on my belt. I use it a lot.
I have a fishing tackle box I carry that has all my miscellaneous tools like pliers, Exacto knife, side cutters, etc. I'm an engineer as well so I carry extra male and female XLR plugs, 1/4" TS and TRS plugs, extra amp fuses, batteries and such. That's where the tackle box comes in handy. It has a lot of different compartments for different things and keeps them organized.
I have a case like that, too. All my pedalboards now have an AC out, and a USB charger built into them. Lifesaver:) Some of the weirder things - I always carry a soldering gun/solder. Steel wool. A socket that fits guitar Jack. Rechargeable 9V, with charger. Apple cables, and mini USB cables. A small electric drill.
I stumbled across your channel because you bought one of Uncle Larry’s guitars. Very glad I found you. Like him, you’re very humble, knowledgeable, and practical. I don’t do studio work, but I gig ALL the time. The only things I always carry (in my Home Depot cheapie tool briefcase) that you don’t, are a couple of vocal mics, wireless transmitters, short power cords, and mic cords. Oh yeah, and some 600 and 800 grit wet and dry sandpaper for fine tuning picks.
Awesome! Yeah, my extra cables stay in another bag that lives in my vehicle. I have instrument cables and speaker cables of various lengths. It’s just a lot of extra weight that I very rarely need, so it doesn’t come into the studio with me.
The only thing I have that you don't is a simple soldering iron and some solder. It has come in handy on a few occasions.
1968 is amazing. Just picked one up a few weeks ago. I've had like 10+ different vibe pedals--everything from the cheap stuff all the way to things like the Vibe Machine. The Kingtone 1968 gets it done.
The Daddarrio Backline bag is designed for music gear and it’s KILLER.
I will check that out!
Great video! I saw a few folks mention a nail file, and my other essential is *small* sticky notes. I mainly do musical theatre gigs where each production makes different changes to the written parts - brightly colored sticky notes are a great way to mark cuts or extra repeats into the sheet music.
Great one. Thanks Justin. Guess I'm on the right track as this looks really similar to what I pack. You probably don't need this stuff but I always pack a 57, mic cable, instrument cable, small Furman power supply/conditioner /surge protector to drop right next to my board, Radial DI, nail clippers, post its, 9volts and Gorilla tape. I usually grab a pedal that does something freaky like the Mood or some such jic. Thanks for the tip on deodorant and toothbrush!
I carry a lot of the same things you have in yours but also have a small flashlight, a roll of Velcro tie strips, extension cord, clips to hold charts to a music stand…
Someone has probably said it it but nail clippers are almost never mentioned. I have started keeping them in my guitar case. A small med kit is useful: ibuprofen, reactine, daytime cold medication (if you're getting over something and still feeling off), cough drops, benadryl, package of tissues.
I got the headphones you recommended, so awesome. I live in a condo high rise, and if I want to have long practices, I need to use cans. Thanks for your videos.
I always have all the truss rod tools to fit all the guitars, Gibson, Rickenbacker, etc.
Love the Grandpa / leatherman story! My late father (also a guitarist), would pass along some of his old pocket knives to family as he got older. I'm not sure if it was an old southern tradition or not but if he gave you one of his knives, you had to give him penny in return. Thanks for sharing your family story and of course your EDC studio kit.
Leatherman headquarters is just down the road from me. In my kit you'll also find: Gorilla tape, wire ties, emery board and clippers, flashlight, needle nose pliers, extra phone charger cable, body wipes and a lighter. Good stuff Justin!
Emery board is a great idea!
I love this video Justin. Super cool window into your world. I love the misc commentary on nutrition, added sugars, good water, and your grandfather. Really feel like I got to know you better. Btw we are water snobs too, it makes such a huge difference.
It’s my dream to one day hire you to help me make a record of the songs I’ve been writing the past decade.
Keep up the awesome work and thank you for doing the CZcams channel. It’s a light in my life.
Thanks a ton man!
Justin,
This is all way above my head! However, I really enjoyed peeking into the mind of a session player. Fascinating!
Very interesting upload. You remind me of a keyboard player I worked with who had everything with him on gigs. I was always amazed when we turned up at gigs, no drinks in dressing room, he had tea, coffee and water flasks. I remember in a particularly cold dressing room he produced an electric heater,😂😂😂 oh and he could play ever standard ever written .
For ANYONE that uses a tube amp: I always carry some sort of electrical outlet tester. These are very cheap but are invaluable. Buy one and USE it before you plug in ANYTHING. I have played many gigs in places that have “dirty power” or outlets that are not wired correctly or improperly grounded. Let me tell you, this can be VERY bad for a tube amp, not to mention a complex pedal board.
Thanks so much for sharing this video. I have been injured for a few years with pinched nerves in the neck and shoulder, leaving me very little time or ability to play much more than a few minutes here and there. Seeing your video reminded me of how excited I used to get packing up stuff to play a local gig at the coffee house down the street. Turns out there is a 511 tactical store right around the corner from where we buy groceries every week, and I never knew it until I was researching your backpack. I snagged one like yours. Dude asked where I found out about their gear, and I said from a Nashville session guy on CZcams. He was really surprised. I accepted a gig in October,and I’m hoping my body will respond as I attempt to get back in the saddle. Thanks for the inspiration, and keep the vids coming.
I wish you a speedy recovery, sir!
Sage advice on the hearing protection. I’m 44 and have tinnitus. Thankfully it doesn’t drive me totally mad, but it sucks to have ringing 24/7.
Love the channel! Thanks for all the great content.
Thanks Justin for sharing and tips.
I bought a cheap fishing tackle box for extra packs of strings...9 volt batteries...slides...picks, etc.
I tend to carry a small bottle of pot cleaner/lube like Deoxit or a similar brand and also a little package of baby wipes. Getting a beer and wings during lunch can sometimes get a little messy and you never know when you are gonna need to shake someone's hand. Your channel is slowly becoming one of my favorites.
Deoxit works miracles!
511 makes some pretty good bags for this type of stuff. I have the 72 hour rush for work, but my little go to bag for a quick pedal board go is what 511 calls their tactical bail out bag. It has a shoulder sling one center pouch where I can throw a bunch of cables and some pedals as well as three pouches in the front that most guitar pedals will fit in and pouch on either end for whatever. I actually use it way more for guitar related equipment that I do for shooting.
How fwiggin’ cool is this video you made for us??? Right in your kitchen too!!! Thank you, thank you, thank you!!! So I saw this on my feed the other night & was like…”EDC? Guitar tools? Half an hour???” I just got to it. I just subscribed too, btw, & am hooked dude. I went & got a Craftsman tool box(Made in USA!) just for all my stuff I have laying around the house. This is great stuff! I’m gunna add a small socket set to mine just for input jacks & stuff like that. Screw drivers, strings, picks, polishing cloths. Painters tape (for acoustic bridges)…all stuff we all need anyway to change strings. Like the capo & will try one out. No kidding about how helpful this is!!! Cheers everyone!!! 🎸🇺🇸
This is a great channel, should be at 100k subscribers. It will get there.
I’m hoping so! Cheers!
That is a beautiful kitchen island! 5.11 Tactical bags are cool. Personally, I use Maxpedition stuff. Try Pentel Energel pens. Nicer than the G7s and they don't clog.
Another great warm up tool for the drive - Baoding Balls (without the chime / bells) work/warm up both opening and closing muscles. Where as those squeeze tools work/ warm up Closing muscles only.
Great idea! Dig it. I also have some twist bars for extensor exercises.
@@JustinOstrander Another tool for warming up, Handmaster Plus.
I love this, as a working musician in new york you HAVE to have something like this as well. Mine also doubles as a suitcase so ill have extra things for gigs like extra tie, shoes if i have to change and a hx stomp (used as a backup rig, im a helix guy),Foldable guitar stand, and ipad stand. I keep extra cables in mine as well.
I just found your channel and I'm really liking what you're doing here, so thanks for putting all this good information out there.
As a non-pro with one steady ongoing gig . . . my Helix bag and my guitar gig bag carry all my essentials. I happen to also have a nice pretty G7th capo -- bought it at Gruhn's, my memento from a Nashville/Music Row visit. Besides the obvious things that we all need and that you listed . . . I gotta have my nail clippers. I also have a Boss wireless, and extra cables as backup. And I contemplated getting up on the roof last week and decided against it. :)
Nail clippers are clutch. I have various sets at the house and in my vehicle. Always somewhat within reach!
Yep, nail clippers in each of my kits that live in each guitar case. Each case kit also has its own G7th capo among other essentials ;)
I’ve been using the cloth pedal train bag for 10+ years 😵💫
The pouch on the front is an endless abyss of things like this.
Man, just tripped along your channel, subscribed and binging! Awesome sauce. Would LOVE to spend an hour or two with you next time I’m in Nashville (in a non-stalkery way - no selfies). Maybe guitar shopping @ Rumble Seat or Carters? ;) And so glad a pro cat like you dislikes compressors as much as I do.
I carry a few different sized acoustic guitar bridge pins...after a bad experience 🙄
This is some good inspiration to get more organized 😅
My essential I can't live without is nail clippers.
I hit subscribe to your channel when you started talking about sugar. Love it! So much poison in our world.
So great to see, that we European "sessioneers" carry almost the same gadgets with us here too. 😃 I, for my part, also always have some (voltage checked) spare 9V batteries, a replacement T-Shirt and a fresh towel. Also I have a piece of Furr (no kidding...) with me that I put between my Tigh and the acoustic, when I'm wearing Jeans in order to avoid any squeeks or other noises. Keep on posting your great content. It's so great so see that, even if we live on different continents, the challenges are pretty much the same all over the world. Love my job! 😃
Man I really like the idea of the fur under the acoustic! I just do not move until the last note has rang out for longer than I think the producer will want it to.
@@JustinOstrander 🤣🤣🤣 I used to call this the “Freeze” or “Don’t move, or you‘re dead“ position.
I've always wondered about what essentials session players need/use. Super helpful info, Justin! Thanks!
Justin - the most riveting part for me (since I am also cutting out sugar) was your talk around the Rx bar and the aspect of all the foods with added sugar. All the guitar stuff was cool too, don't get me wrong. I'm a fan.
I heard something a few years ago that I like - "Amateurs remember, but professionals write it down". Good job with the note pad.
Thanks a ton, man!
Thanks for being so upfront! Life threw me a curveball 3 years ago, the C word appeared, so now in my carryall bag (which is a Carhart tool bag), I have to carry an extra Urostomy pouch and supplies. I always have a fear of having an 'accident' live on stage! But hey...on the good side, I can now do those 'real long' sets, without the urgency! Also, a small bottle of talc powder....when my guitar neck and hand are arguing ;) Thanks, always enjoy your videos....
Just found you, love this post, subscribed, hit the bell and comment for the math machine.
Thanks a ton, and welcome aboard!
Might add nail file and some sort of wet wipes for cleaning sweaty hands. But all in all your pack is rock solid.
Totally. My fingernail clippers are always in my vehicle. I’ve never thought of wipes for sweaty hands. I have the world’s driest hands. Guitars love it; wife hates it. 😂
Field trip!!
Dude, great stuff, thanks so much. I'm a middle aged guy just starting to play out and this is great. Thanks!
Great post Justin! You're pretty damn organized for a musician! 😄
Well, he's not the bass player so...
One more thing Justin, recently I bought a D'Addario headstock tuner that recharges via USB, and it works pretty well. No more batteries!!!
So similar to me, right down to the specific pencils and deodorant! 👍👍
Justin, I'd also recommend a divot fixer and range finder... wait was this for golf? Hey old buddy. Glad your channel is doing well.
Hey Gary! Great to hear from you
For gigs, I have an old Shure MRB bag that carries all the important stuff. Lots of little pockets for strings, batteries etc. It's great. Can be worn as a backpack or as a satchel. I believe they recently discontinued them though.
It’s so interesting that you and Tom Bukovac get such balanced tone without a compressor. I’ve got a Cali76 that I love but maybe I need to explore playing without it a little.
Man with that water system you must have amazing coffee and tea at your house. Perfect for an espresso machine too
I always have a variety of picks since they can EQ your guitar especially in acoustic land. I have ALOT of picks for that reason. A thicker pick on an acoustic will make it low mid heavy, and a super thin nylon pick will make that producer pleasing 'guitar as tambourine' sheen. Eastern European coin based picks can sound great on a triolian National style Dobro. Ibanez Sand Grip Wizard pick gives what I call the Plexi In Your Face smack/bark.. We are all tone hunting in different yet similar ways.....
Wow, thanks for the great info! I’m going to try to find some of those coin based picks.
@@JustinOstrander Fun to be had! I got a few on eBay.
PILOT G2-07's for life brother
This is the most un-rock-n-roll CZcams video I've ever seen and I love it! Thanks for keeping it real. I don't think we've ever met before, my days recording in Nashville were in August of 2002, but if you happen to know William Tyler or Loney John Hutchins, then they would probably vouch for me the that I am only 48% asshole. Love your channel. Keep em coming. You rock!
Haha thanks a ton!
Avoiding sugar is damn near impossible and sugar is terrible for you. I completely agree!
“Tacti-cool” and practi-cool. Thanks!
Man, I LOVE your videos!!!
I seldom do recording sessions, but I play a lot of gigs. I always pack an extra (black) power strip. And also a roll of black duct tape.
Love this video man! Can you please make a video on how you properly use a wah pedal? I feel like I never mastered it
Weird but I recommend Harbor Freight for getting cheap carrying bags. I have 2 from there, one for guitar related stuff (cables, IEMs, etc)and the other for PA items.
I have a cheap tool bag from HF. It has held up ok!
Another great video, thanks so much. Love the water and food discussion.
Ah, finally! I have just not been able to appreciate compressors. And, I think you touched on it, exactly, dynamics. I played for the first decade plus only on acoustic. And now, after another twenty or so (dating myself), I still cannot enjoy a compressor in the chain. I feel like it only takes away. If I want compression, well, I have tubes to do that for me. I know it sounds a bit snobbish, but that’s how I see it.
Super useful video! I also totally agree on the points about food and water.
I laughed at the Mary Poppins bag reference. Nice video ✌🏼
Grandpas leatherman swap … yes!!
Thanks for sharing
i have a altoids can for my picks as well
Best part was the Grandpa story! BTW, have you tried the FX Engineering comp? It's often referred to as"the compressor for people who hate compressors". Just ask John Leventhal. SoundPure in Durham, NC stocks them.
I will check it out!
@@JustinOstrander I think youd like it. I know about it from Eddie Berman at SoundPure. Eddie hipped Leventhal to it. John talks about it on his TrueTone Lounge interview with Zac.
I really enjoy your content! This has become one of my top channels to watch. You've mentioned that you know Uncle Larry, if you do an episode with or about him in the title, I think you will get a ton of views...
Data such as this is ALWAYS priceless. Re:tuners. I’ve become enchanted with the D’Adarrio usb chargeable tuners. (So far they’ve been pretty decent about the low E tho on occasion it’s showing up as the B overtone.)
Re:Tools. Similar situation tho, I tend to leave guit-specific tools in their cases due to phenomena like the “core” PRS truss wrench is useless on “SE” instruments. Same kinda goes for Mastery trem hex stuff. (Tho I’ve been able to make up a couple sets as that data is available.)
Re:cases: My small board is a temple audio 17 inch duo that fits PERFECTLY in a Harbor Freight “4800” case (their pelican knockoff which goes fits overhead bins quite nicely) and pairs very well their “5800” which is similar but slimmer and has a telescoping handle and wheels I use in the same fashion you do you backpack.
This pairing has been tested “internationally”.
That’s really great info, especially regarding the HF cases. Thanks! Regarding tools, my guitars rotate in and out of the same few gig bags I always carry so it makes more sense for me to keep all the tools in one place. Cheers!
@@JustinOstrander I concur with your approach. It’s just a couple that have the “strangeness”
I need order a gross of those gibby screwdriver/wrench critters. They somehow have a true knack for being left out of cases!
Very interesting, thanks!
Cool video! Some really good ideas. I always overpack lol. I try to bring a couple of batteries and 9v power supplies, just in case, and I always bring my old Zoom H2 recorder with rechargeable batteries. 🙂
Deodorant and an extra shirt. Sometimes you want to feel extra fresh.
Thanks for sharing Justin.....and i feel ya on the sugary food thing. I play/perform much better when im on top of my diet, and added sugar is unfortunately everywhere!
When i was in the forces, like a bug out bag.
This is good, real stuff. Definitely cool. Interesting take on a lot of stuff 🤘🏼
I to like to “park” the wah in one position because I like the tone at that time. Oh yea all the sugar, sugar magnolia.
Really awesome video this, subscribed 😊
Thanks a ton!
Such great, detailed info, Justin! Btw, new band name -“The Water Snobs”!😂
Edc and guitars in the same video… the internet did good today. Thanks for sharing!
It all comes in handy sooner or later! Cheers
Two things I ALWAYS carry that you don't is a nail clipper (I can't stand my left hand especially) my nails long and getting in my way when I'm fretting. With that is a decent metal file from Amazon. They are in every guitar pocket, bag/case or even pedal board kit. I have a pedal board arrangement for both acoustic and electric. (Someone mentioned "mints"....that too.
I’m so good at losing fingernail clippers, I just keep them in my vehicle. Definitely use them often!
Great video. It is help full. tanx
Emory boards and my new hack for outdoors gigs in humid climates- a small spray bottle of WD-40. Works better than lemon oil on the fretboard without buildup.
WD40 on your guitar? Interesting. That would freak me out on my guitars lol
@@JustinOstrander It did me too at first 3 years later no problems- all vintage guitars plus a 21 year old PRS maple fretboard Soapbar.
Also, when gigging with a modeler having a direct box with a ground lift seems to work better than a 3-2 prong adapter. Maybe because of the transformer.
This channel may have inspired viewers to look for other guitar player's channels, so Uncle Larry and Tim Pierce may have benefitted from your efforts here.
I can't believe you said "lots of guitar players have Altoids cans" for keeping picks in. I've never heard of anyone doing that, have never seen it in 50 years of playing. Yet I have one next to me filled with picks. That made me lol, but it's also scary somehow.
Thanks for solving this great French mystery: what are American kitchens for? 😂
Anyway, your channel is very helpful, thank you so much for sharing your gear, tips and analysis.
Haha! Thanks! My kitchen is generally for preparing venison 🤠