During the pandemic, Los Angeles-based trio MUNA was dropped by RCA in 2020 but they found a new home on Phoebe Bridgers’ Saddest Factory label in 2021. With Bridgers, they created a perfect little viral guitar-pop smash by the name of Silk Chiffon, followed by another 10 infectious anthems on their self-titled, self-produced third album.
The band exudes a veteran chemistry, having met while studying at USC 10 years ago. It consists of Katie Gavin (vocals, acoustic guitar), Naomi McPherson (production, synth, guitar and vocals) and Josette Maskin (lead guitar). Their dynamic arrangements never suffer from six-string overindulgence, even though they could – and sometimes do – all play at once.
“We’re making pop music, so I think you try to do the thing that’s going to be the most impactful with the least amount of parts,” says Maskin, who’s become a specialist in ultra-lean, ultra-creative lead playing.
When it comes to guitars, Maskin uses a Fender Ultra Luxe as her main guitar. It’s a model that was released during the pandemic – a Strat with a Floyd Rose. Maskin also plays slide on a Fender Jazzmaster, using its long neck and heavy-gauge strings to her advantage.
Her number one amp of choice is Kempers for their control in terms of EQ and being able to notch things out and get a really clear sound. “In any given song, we can have up to eight different tones going on!”
Some other essential equipment for Maskin includes an EBow for creating synth-like guitar sounds, along with various pedals to add movement and texture to her playing.
Having toured and collaborated with Phoebe Bridgers, MUNA’s sound is infused with a unique blend of guitar-pop that has captivated audiences worldwide. For the full interview,
