Ever since the release of 2001’s Is This It, The Strokes have skyrocketed to the forefront of modern rock music and can even be considered one of the most influential modern rock bands putting out music today - thanks, in no small part, to guitarist Albert Hammond Jr.
Earlier this summer, Albert released his third solo studio album, entitled Momentary Masters, and is currently on tour to promote it.
Albert Hammond Jr.’s familiar tone is nearing iconic status, and his Strokes bandmates consider his influence to be largest on the band’s sound. His gear has a lot to do with this, but not in the way one would typically think. Hammond’s philosophy rests solidly in the “do what you can with what you have” camp, rather than seeking out more gear on a holy-grail quest for the perfect tone.
With this laid-back attitude and love for experimentation, the signature sound he’s created for himself carries through in exciting new ways both on Momentary Masters and at his shows.
We caught up with Albert at a recent gig in Chicago to ask him a little bit about what he has on his pedalboard (including a new Bogner Wessex, a Memory Boy, and two, yes two, Jekyll & Hyde Ultimate Overdrives), his love for all things Fender, his opinions on the transience of tone, and what’s in store for him next. Learn more about Albert Hammond Jr., his solo projects, and his upcoming tour at his site.