The ESP Guitar Company

Photo by Brittany Paige.

Joining ESP's family of endorsed artists is no small thing, especially considering that you're becoming part of a list of legendary players that includes James Hetfield and Kirk Hammett (Metallica), George Lynch, Gus G. (Ozzy Osbourne/Firewind), Tom Araya (Slayer) and many more. However, our latest addition has the respect and admiration of metal players around the world, and you should know more about him too. That's why we're happy to welcome James Malone of technical/melodic death metal band Arsis to the ESP family.

“We’re so proud to have James onboard at ESP," says Chris Cannella, ESP director of artist relations. "Some of the most elite players in metal are among his biggest fans! James is a great representative for what can be done with talent and an ESP guitar.”

Malone commented, “I turned to ESP because they sound great. The playability is outstanding. I really just feel that ESP makes a quality product. I’ve even seen low-cost LTDs that play better than anything their price range.”

He continues, “I’ve always loved ESP guitars. When I found out that Chris Cannella was there, it made the choice easy. I’m getting ready to start a tour with Arsis, and I wanted to be with a company that had a representative I was super cool with. But mostly, it’s just that I loved the guitars. Chris ended up sending me an E-II ST-2, and now it’s probably the favorite guitar I ever owned in my existence. The neck is awesome. It’s very ergonomically correct. I never feel like I’m straining. The ST-2’s tone is perfect. Bright but never shrill. It’s warm-bright.”

Arsis was formed by James Malone and Mike Van Dyne in 2000, with Malone taking the role of the band’s main composer as well as guitarist and singer. He cites King Diamond as well as ‘80s shredders like Paul Gilbert and Tony MacAlpine as early influences, along with other metal bands including Mercyful Fate, Iron Maiden, Queensrÿche, Death, Dimmu Borgir and others. Arsis is currently underway of a tour to celebrate the 10-year anniversary of the release of their first album, A Celebration of Guilt , and are planning to play the album in its entirety at each show.

For a look at the complete list of ESP artists, click here.