Guitar Jams: THE BAND -- Jim Griffin

Where's home for you?
Marion, Texas, USA - just outside of San Antonio, Texas.

When and why did you begin playing guitar?
I started playing the electric guitar when I was around 13, 26 years ago. For me it was a release and an escape from things going on around me. Music has always been a huge part of my life, whether recording, jamming or just noodling.

What impact has music had on you -- and how do you hope your music will impact others?
It has allowed me to expand my mind, body and soul and meet some really talented people over the years. I hope that my music inspires others and offers a different perspective on this great instrument.

Favorite guitar(s)?
As an avid guitar collector I have many axes in my arsenal. My main guitar these days is a black Yamaha RGX320FZ 6-string. I also own the pewter version of this guitar - it is awesome! I also play on the Line-6 Spider II 112 Combo, FBV Shortboard Pedal, Ernie Ball Hybrid Slinky Strings, and Jim Dunlop 1.14mm Tortex Picks.

Out side of your projects with Pastor Brad -- what other bands, projects or cds have you been part of -- and where can people go to learn more?
I started my own one-man band Griffin-X in 2000 and have put out four CDs of original instrumental metal music. You can learn more about my band at www.griffinx.com and listen to sample music. I have also played guitar in several progressive metal and hard rock bands in the South Texas area over the last 26 years. Some of them are: Ovation, Rule of Three, Morituri, Something Shiva, Synjynce, Battery Park, Dorian Gray, The Unknown, Face First, Anacrusix, Gulliver Dark, Bark Hard and KnightMares.