| "There is a bond between musician and instrument that manifests itself both sonically and visually. For me, as a player, it is paramount when considering an instrument that I connect with it not just on a sonic level, but also on an aesthetic and tactile one; in other words, how does it look, how does it feel? In my experience, and though these things are of course subjective, there is no body shape more elegant, more striking, more endearing than that of the Skjold Firedrake. From the fluid curves of the body to the unique symmetry of the headstock, this bass is more a work of art than a musical instrument. Similarly, the feel of the woods, which have been masterfully treated, is unparalleled in its smoothness. The ramp, which is curved to match the fingerboard, provides a beautifully even playing surface that caters extremely well to both finger-style and palm-mute techniques. Sonically, the three-band onboard preamp, passive tone control and pickup blend allows for extraordinary degrees of versatility, and the bass also has wonderfully diverse tones when simply used passively. I use a Skjold because it makes me want to put my hands on my instrument and play, because I can get any sound out of it that I want, and because it's what I want people to see when I'm onstage.

- Alex Ryan

Bio:

Alex Ryan is the bassist and Musical Director for Hozier. He has been playing Skjold basses since 2013, when he received a pre-owned Standard '92 as a gift. Now, his arsenal has grown to include a Skjoldslayer, a custom Firedrake and a Lion's Pride B. Since beginning his relationship with Pete Skjold, these instruments have provided the low-end for Hozier's live performances the world over, as well as featuring on some of his studio recordings.