Phil Manansala
OF MICE & MEN
Artist Spotlight
For our first ever Artist Spotlight, we’re starting off with a bang! Phil Manansala has been an artist of ours for many years now, and we love working with him. From his most extreme build ideas, to his more simple ones (of which there aren’t many!), we always have a blast whenever we get to work on a new build with him.
In this new segment, we’re asking Phil some questions about his time with our guitars, and what the future holds for Of Mice & Men!
Do you remember your first impression when you first played one of our guitars?
The first time I saw an Aristides guitar I automatically thought of a sports car, sleek and fast. One day, Pascal (Aristides CEO) brought one to me in Amsterdam and it went straight to the live rig. I loved that it kept in tune, was light weight and had its own resonance no other guitar has. I knew I would become an Aristides artist.
Featured Guitar
070 Camo Chameleon Custom
The Collection
Is there anything about playing our guitars that surprised you? Whether live or otherwise?
Aristides is a one of a kind type of guitar, the first time I played it there was nothing that was close to what Aristides does. Full bodies, fast guitars with no wood, it’s in its own league of guitar builds.
How many Aristides guitars do you have?
Good question, I believe I have 10 builds. 6 Customs, 3 Raws and an original build with an ebony fretboard that Pascal gave me to try and I love it.
Do you have a clear favourite?
As a favorite that’s a tough decision, I truly love them all, but the “Jurassic Park” build is a showstopper and the Black Sparkle are as of now my favourites to play.
What has your experience been like bringing your Aristides into the studio, on the road, and into your creative process?
Having a reliable guitar like an Aristides makes recording, touring and writing seamless.
When you have a brand you trust that hits all the boxes, it’s hard to change and go for something else that might not be everything you need.
This is always a fun question – if you were to spec out a new build right now, what would it be?
If I have a new build I wouldn’t share it! I know the Aristides community always has their eyes peeled on when I’m building something, so I’ll keep my ideas hidden.
Of Mice & Men & The Road
When and where can people catch you on the road?
We have a few Cali shows this year to wrap up the touring cycle, and will have some tour dates next year for sure releasing soonish!
Hope to see some of you there!
Phil Manansala