““When Aristides guitars first hit the modern progressive metal scene, they caught my eye immediately. What initially intrigued me was their finishes, specifically Arctic Sunrise Sparkle! I slowly started noticing my favorite guitarists playing Aristides, and knew there must be more to them than just looks. Upon trying one for the first time, I fell in love and had to own one for myself. After battling the option paralysis of what finish and specs to choose, I put in my first order, an 070s in Aqua Green with Bare Knuckle Polymaths. Having had that guitar for a few years, it is still my favorite instrument I’ve ever played or owned by a wide margin. Sonically, it’sperfectly suited for my playing style. Playability wise, it’s the easiest and most fun guitar I’ve ever played. There is nothing about Aristides I don’t love. Their instruments and the team of people who make them are the best in the industry. I am beyond proud to be a part of the Aristides family, and look forward to playing their guitars for the rest of my life!””
James O’Connor
Among the Stars, Survive the Sun
Bio
James O’Connor is a guitarist/musician based in Boston, Massachusetts, USA. Focusing primarily on modern progressive metal, he has spent years honing his abilities in botheducational and professional settings. His biggest musical influences include The Contortionist,
Pat Metheny, The Helix Nebula, and Periphery.
From 2018 to 2022 he studied at Berklee College of Music, where he met some of his closest friends and future bandmates in Among the Stars, a modern progressive metal band, andSurvive the Sun, a deathcore band. In July of 2022, Among the Stars played the main stage of Inkcarceration Fest alongside fellow
metal acts such as Volumes, Spiritbox, Veil of Maya, KORN, and Evanescence to name a few. Following the festival, Among the Stars saw an influx of support for their music. With Survive the Sun, James filled in on guitar for a few shows before officially joining the band in 2024. In September of the following year, Survive the Sun played Tough Luck Fest at BrightonMusic Hall in Boston, MA with other crushing metal bands including Great American Ghost, and Euclid.
James has been using Aristides guitars since 2022, when he got his 070s, and has been an avid supporter of the company ever since. The precisely dialed in ergonomics and unparalleled sonic perfection make Aristides guitars ideal for the highly demanding music that is modern metal, and James will be continuing to use his for the rest of his career!
Socials / Media
Gear
- 070s