Early Influences
Every guitarist starts somewhere, and for Goonzi, the journey began with classic rock and metal. Growing up, he was surrounded by the sounds of legendary bands like Metallica, Iron Maiden, and Black Sabbath. These bands laid the foundation for his musical taste and provided the initial spark that ignited his passion for playing the guitar.
Metallica
“Enter Sandman” was one of the first riffs that truly captured my imagination,” Goonzi recalls. “The way James Hetfield crafted those heavy, chugging riffs was mesmerizing. It taught me the importance of rhythm and groove in metal music.”
Iron Maiden
Iron Maiden’s intricate twin guitar harmonies, especially in songs like “The Trooper,” played a significant role in shaping his approach to melody and harmony. “The interplay between Dave Murray and Adrian Smith showed me how dual guitar parts could elevate a song to new heights,” Goonzi notes.
Discovering New Sounds
As Goonzi honed his skills, he began exploring more modern and diverse sounds. Bands like Pantera and Lamb of God introduced him to a heavier and more aggressive playing style, which would eventually become a hallmark of BLEED FROM WITHIN’s sound.
Pantera
“Dimebag Darrell was a game-changer for me,” Goonzi says. “His riffs in songs like ‘Walk’ and ‘Cowboys from Hell’ were not only heavy but also incredibly dynamic. They taught me about precision and the power of a well-placed note.”
Lamb of God
The technical prowess of Mark Morton and Willie Adler in Lamb of God was another major influence. “The riff in ‘Laid to Rest’ is a masterclass in modern metal guitar playing,” he explains. “It taught me to think outside the box and incorporate different techniques into my playing.”
Developing a Unique Style
With a solid foundation and a wealth of influences, Goonzi began to develop his own unique style. His work with BLEED FROM WITHIN showcases a blend of aggressive riffs, melodic lines, and intricate solos that set the band apart in the metal scene.
Incorporating Melodic Elements
“In songs like ‘The End of All We Know,’ I strive to balance heaviness with melody,” Goonzi explains. “I want the riffs to be powerful but also memorable and singable. That’s where my early influences from Iron Maiden come into play.”
Experimentation and Growth
Goonzi is always looking to push the boundaries of his playing. “I’m constantly experimenting with new techniques and sounds. Whether it’s using different tunings or incorporating elements from other genres, I’m always looking to evolve as a guitarist.”
The Future of Guitar Playing
Looking ahead, Goonzi is optimistic about the future of guitar playing. “I think we’re in a golden age of guitar right now. There’s so much talent out there, and technology has made it easier than ever for people to create and share music.”
Advice for Aspiring Guitarists
“My advice to young guitarists is to stay curious and never stop learning,” Goonzi says. “Find what inspires you and run with it. And don’t be afraid to make mistakes; that’s how you grow as a musician.”
Conclusion
Craig “Goonzi” Gowans’ journey as a guitarist is a testament to the power of inspiration and relentless pursuit of excellence. From his early influences to his current work with BLEED FROM WITHIN, Goonzi’s dedication to his craft continues to inspire fans and fellow musicians alike. As he continues to push the boundaries of metal guitar, we can only anticipate the incredible riffs and melodies he will bring to the world in the future.