Ever wonder how some guitarists make their fingers move at seemingly impossible speeds? Jason Richardson, who joined All Shall Perish at just 17, represents the pinnacle of modern metal guitar virtuosity through his mastery of complex techniques like one-note-per-string patterns and strict alternate picking. Drawing inspiration from legends like Yngwie Malmsteen and John Petrucci while studying under Matt Mills, he developed extraordinary technical precision through intricate two-hand tapping, complex arpeggios, and double escaped picking. His success with prominent bands like Born of Osiris and All That Remains, coupled with his chart-topping solo album "I," demonstrates his innovative approach to guitar techniques and meticulous dedication to his craft. Read on to discover the practice routines and gear choices that helped shape Richardson's exceptional playing style.
Early Days at Berklee
Jason Richardson's unconventional path to Berklee College of Music began when he chose touring over traditional education. The young guitarist secured a partial scholarship but redirected his course when All Shall Perish recruited him at age 17, prompting his early exit from high school.
Before considering Berklee, Richardson developed his craft through dedicated training with instructor Matt Mills and devoted extensive practice time to mastering advanced guitar techniques, drawing inspiration from influential guitarists Yngwie Malmsteen and John Petrucci. His initial career move opened doors to the international music scene, exposing him to diverse musical influences and performance opportunities. His technical precision skills would later set new standards for extreme guitar playing in modern metal.
The All Shall Perish Years
Richardson joined All Shall Perish at age seventeen in February 2009 as Chris Storey's replacement. Following a period of line-up changes, he joined during a time when Mike Tiner remained the sole original member.
All Shall Perish featured Richardson during the Atticus Clothing tour and major European festival performances. His style drew influence from the emerging djent movement pioneered by modern progressive metal guitarists. His technical guitar skills enhanced the band's aggressive musical style throughout his short tenure.
Despite departing in early 2010 to join Born of Osiris, Richardson's contributions had a significant influence on the band's sound during his time as lead guitarist.
Mastering One Note Per String
One note per string technique involves playing a single note on each string while moving sequentially across the fretboard. This demanding approach requires careful finger movement and precise articulation, particularly when executing six-string arpeggios. Contemporary guitar innovators are continuously developing new ways to apply this technique across genres.
Players must maintain strict alternate picking patterns instead of sweeping motions to achieve optimal clarity through complex musical phrases. Rolling the fingers helps prevent unwanted barring and provides smoother transitions between notes. This technique's effectiveness often depends on the guitar's specifications and setup, allowing for clean note separation and minimal string interference during rapid passages.
Breaking Down Modal Arpeggios
Modal arpeggios are patterns that combine modal scales with chord structures played one note at a time.
Richardson's method integrates six-string arpeggio shapes and multi-octave patterns through modal centers, using alternate picking techniques for precise execution. Like extended-range guitar pioneer Tosin Abasi, Richardson pushes the technical boundaries of the instrument with his innovative approach.
The approach bridges theoretical understanding with hands-on practice by focusing on tonic chord relationships and distinctive modal harmonies, while incorporating advanced playing methods such as economy picking and string skipping to create more expressive melodic lines. Each mode contains all the notes from parent scales, allowing seamless transitions between modal arpeggios within the same key.
Independent Album Success Story
Independent album "I" by Jason Richardson showcases how musicians can achieve major commercial success without traditional label support.
The guitarist's crowd-funded debut project generated $33,000 from supporters and claimed the top spot on Billboard's new artists charts upon its 2016 release.
Like melodic guitar pioneer Aaron Marshall, Richardson has demonstrated how instrumental guitarists can build successful careers through innovative approaches. Richardson's collaboration with metal scene veterans Mark Holcomb of Periphery and drummer Luke Holland strengthened the album's appeal, helping it secure the #2 position on iTunes rock charts and sell over 7,200 copies in week one through independent distribution channels. His remarkable success was backed by his unique approach to guitar technique, characterized by his mastery of strict alternate picking rather than relying on economy picking or sweeping patterns.
Joining All That Remains
Jason Richardson joined All That Remains as their new guitarist following Oli Herbert's death in late 2018.
Richardson demonstrated exceptional dedication by quickly learning the band's extensive 20-year catalog of music within just one month. His performance capabilities were validated during the European tour with Sevendust in December 2018, which directly led the band to welcome him as an official full-time member by February 2019.
The transition showcased Richardson's musical prowess and ability to honor Herbert's legacy while bringing his own talents to the group. His prior experience touring across Europe with All Shall Perish made him well-prepared for his new role with All That Remains.
Touring With Technical Excellence
Richardson's technical excellence during touring manifested through his sophisticated equipment setup and meticulous attention to sound quality.
His performance rig incorporated custom Ernie Ball Music Man guitars and carefully selected effects that demonstrated his unwavering dedication to achieving the perfect tone. His commitment to quality aligned perfectly with the company's focus on attention to detail in production. Like genre-crossing virtuosos such as Guthrie Govan, Richardson's versatility demanded precision in his gear selection.
The integration of specialized hardware and precise engineering choices reflected his professional approach to live sound production.
- Custom-voiced humbucking pickups with ceramic magnets for ideal tone control
- Dual amp setup combining PRS Archon and Engel PowerBall for versatile sound
- Specialized Dunlop picks merging Jazz III size with Tortex Sharp profile
- Advanced coil-tapping capabilities in middle pickup position for tonal variation
Signature Playing Techniques
Richardson's signature guitar technique combines precise alternate picking with intricate string control to create his groundbreaking style.
His approach masterfully integrates sequential fretting and strict alternate picking methods while avoiding traditional barred chord positions. His meticulous modes-based approach allows for seamless execution across the fretboard.
Like fellow innovator two-hand tapping, Young's experimental methods, Richardson's technique showcases complex arpeggio patterns enhanced by calculated string skipping and outside picking motions.
Through his innovative double escaped picking method, Richardson achieves exceptional velocity and precision when executing one-note-per-string passages.
Gear and Equipment Choices
Jason Richardson's signature sound comes from his carefully selected combination of high-end guitars and professional equipment.
The accomplished guitarist builds his tone around premium instruments and processors, choosing gear that delivers both versatility and technical precision. His Ernie Ball Music Man guitars pair with sophisticated amplification and effects systems to create his characteristic musical voice. His preferred 64 Audio A12 in-ear monitors ensure precise mix monitoring during performances.
- Ernie Ball Music Man JP Majesty and Cutlass models serve as his primary instruments
- PRS Archon and ENGL amplifiers form the foundation of his tone
- Fractal Axe-Fx II and Strymon Riverside shape his effects chain
- Custom Ernie Ball strings and signature Dunlop picks complete his setup
Teaching The Next Generation
Jason Richardson has made a significant impact as a guitar educator through his comprehensive teaching methodology focused on developing technical mastery.
His rigorous instructional approach requires students to dedicate substantial daily practice time, specifically 2-3 hours, with emphasis on fundamental techniques like alternate picking and proper playing posture. Students following his methods can expect to see notable improvement after 16 months of dedicated practice.
The teaching system follows a structured progression where students must achieve specific benchmarks, including playing at 120 beats per minute using 16th notes, while advancing through increasingly complex material covering arpeggios and sophisticated guitar techniques.
Creative Practice Methods
Jason Richardson develops his unique guitar technique through diverse creative practice methods that blend structured training with artistic innovation.
Richardson's approach connects technical mastery with creative development. His practice system unites precise physical movements with imaginative exploration, maintaining foundational skills while incorporating fresh musical elements. Just as critical thinking skills are essential for effective composition, Richardson applies analytical decision-making to refine his guitar techniques. Similar to melodic progressions pioneered by Plini, Richardson's style demonstrates thoughtful integration of complex musical phrases.
The methodology balances traditional guitar techniques with modern influences, allowing for continuous growth and stylistic evolution.
- Focuses on alternate picking before advancing to complex sweep techniques
- Practices six-string arpeggios using one-note-per-string methodology
- Explores different modes to enhance musical vocabulary
- Integrates inspiration from various genres, including orchestral and electronic elements
Musical Philosophy and Approach
Jason Richardson's musical philosophy centers on blending technical virtuosity with diverse musical influences. His artistic approach draws deeply from Dream Theater's progressive style while incorporating techniques from guitar masters Paul Gilbert and Yngwie Malmsteen.
Richardson's compositions showcase his ability to weave complex technical elements with orchestral arrangements, building upon aggressive percussion foundations and intricate guitar work. His evolution from a piano background helped shape his multi-instrumental perspective and approach to composition. His approach shares similarities with instrumental rock pioneers like Mario Camarena in pushing genre boundaries. This musical framework allows him to push beyond conventional metal genres, integrating various instrumental components that create a distinctive sound palette.
The result bridges multiple musical traditions while maintaining his signature technical precision and compositional depth.
