Emerging from the heart of Malang’s thriving underground music scene, THE HVRT LIFE is set to make waves in the world of melodic hardcore. Formed in May 2025, the band was born from the creative vision of Endruw (vocals) and Innot, guitarist of Fasik and now the lead guitarist of this project. Together, they envisioned a band that could merge raw emotion with the dramatic, bittersweet essence of hardcore — music that not only hits hard, but also resonates deeply with the listener.
The lineup came together quickly. Veteran drummer Joshua — also known for his work with Malang’s legendary hardcore act Children Of Terror — brought a wealth of experience and relentless energy behind the kit. Yoga, former guitarist of Alice In Wonderland, joined as the band’s second guitarist, adding rich layers of harmony and texture to the band’s signature sound.
The Hvrt Life Band Melodic Hardcore
The name THE HVRT LIFE carries a personal story. The stylized spelling of “hurt” reflects Endruw’s belief that pain is a universal teacher. Every person encounters hardship in life, and through these struggles comes a deeper understanding of what it truly means to live. It is this philosophy that fuels the band’s music — transforming vulnerability into strength, and sorrow into anthems of resilience.
Sonically, THE HVRT LIFE draws on the wide spectrum of melodic hardcore influences, combining soaring melodies, emotionally charged lyrics, and unrelenting rhythms. Their sound is both aggressive and introspective — the perfect balance of raw intensity and heartfelt storytelling. With their debut material currently in development, the band is poised to deliver a powerful statement, not just to the Indonesian scene, but to melodic hardcore audiences worldwide.
THE HVRT LIFE on Youtube
Follow THE HVRT LIFE on social media for updates, music releases, and live show announcements.
Zoom A2.1u Acoustic Guitar Effects Pedal with USB is a versatile multi-effects pedal designed specifically for acoustic guitarists, offering a robust set of tools to enhance tone and performance. With its 32-bit DSP processing, 96kHz sampling rate, and a wide array of effects, this pedal aims to restore the natural resonance of an acoustic guitar while providing creative flexibility for live and studio settings. After exploring its features, sound quality, and usability, here’s a comprehensive review based on user feedback and product specifications.
Overview
The Zoom A2.1u is part of Zoom’s A2 series, designed to address the common issue of acoustic guitar pickups producing a thin, string-heavy sound. It incorporates advanced sound modeling to emulate the body resonance and spatial ambiance of a miked acoustic guitar, even when played through an amplifier or PA system. The pedal includes 47 effects across eight modules, 40 preset patches, 40 user-programmable patches, a built-in tuner, a drum machine, and an expression pedal for real-time control. Additional features like a USB interface for recording and an XLR output for direct PA connectivity make it a compelling choice for gigging musicians and home recordists alike.
Sound Quality
Zoom A2.1u excels at enhancing the natural tone of an acoustic guitar, particularly when used with piezo or magnetic pickups. Its 24-bit/96kHz sampling and ZFX-3 32-bit DSP chip deliver clean, high-fidelity sound with minimal noise (100dB signal-to-noise ratio). The pedal’s modeling technology simulates the sonic characteristics of iconic guitars like the Martin D-28, Gibson SJ-200, and Ovation Adamas, allowing players to emulate signature tones. Users praise the clarity of the XLR output and the warmth added by effects like the tube preamp simulation and subtle chorus settings. However, the reverb effects, particularly the Hall Reverb, receive mixed feedback. Some users find them “washed out” or “muddy,” lacking the depth needed for professional live settings. The compressor and limiter, while functional, are criticized for limited parameter control, missing traditional settings like attack, decay, and threshold, which can make fine-tuning difficult for discerning players. Effects like flanger and phaser are seen as less practical for acoustic gigs, with some users suggesting Zoom should have focused on refining core effects like reverb, EQ, and compression instead of including “cheesy” extras. Standout effects include the delay (up to 5000ms), which pairs well with reverb for lush soundscapes, and the chorus options (mono, stereo, and ensemble), which add body without overpowering the guitar’s natural tone. The feedback control feature is a highlight, effectively detecting and attenuating feedback points, making it a valuable tool for live performances.
Features
Zoom A2.1u is packed with features tailored for acoustic guitarists: Effects and Modules: 47 effects, including compression, EQ, modulation, delay, reverb, and guitar modeling. Up to eight effects can be used simultaneously across eight modules. Global Module: Includes AMP SELECT (combo, bright combo, stack) and PICKUP SELECT (piezo, magnetic, single-coil, humbucker) to optimize the pedal for different setups. EQ Flexibility: Offers a six-band linear EQ or a two-band parametric EQ, optimized for acoustic guitar frequencies (e.g., peaking filters at 320Hz, 500Hz, 1.2kHz, 6.3kHz). Expression Pedal: Allows real-time control of parameters like volume, modulation rate, or delay/reverb mix, enhancing live performance dynamics. USB Interface: Enables direct recording to a computer, with included Cubase LE software for DAW integration. Tuner and Drum Machine: A chromatic tuner with a 435–445Hz calibration range and 40 PCM-based rhythm patterns for practice or live backing. XLR Output: Provides a balanced connection with pre/post switch and ground lift for PA or mixer integration without a DI box. Build: Sturdy metal chassis with rubber damping ensures durability, though some users note the 2.65–3.44-pound weight (depending on source) feels substantial for a compact pedal.
Ease of Use
Zoom A2.1u’s interface is intuitive, with three analog-style knobs for adjusting parameters like compressor sensitivity, delay feedback, or patch levels. The two-digit LED display is functional but requires referencing the manual to decode two-letter parameter codes, which can be a learning curve for beginners. Programming patches is straightforward, and the fast patch change speed (8ms) ensures seamless transitions during performances. The expression pedal and footswitches are responsive, and the tuner is easily accessible by pressing both footswitches simultaneously. However, the sheer number of effects can feel overwhelming, with some users preferring simpler setups for a natural acoustic sound.
Build Quality and Value
Zoom A2.1u’s solid metal chassis and shock-absorbent rubber damping make it roadworthy, with users reporting durability even after years of use. It operates on four AA batteries (lasting ~6–7.5 hours) or an optional AC adapter, adding flexibility for gigs. Priced around $150–$180 when available (now discontinued), the A2.1u offers excellent value for its feature set, especially compared to single-effect pedals or DI boxes. However, its value is slightly diminished for players who find the reverb and compressor lacking, as they may need additional gear for professional applications.
Pro
Versatile Tone Shaping: Guitar modeling, chorus, and delay effects add depth and variety to acoustic tones. Feedback Control: Effective for live settings, with automatic or manual detection. USB and XLR Connectivity: Ideal for recording and PA integration. Built-in Tuner and Drum Machine: Convenient for practice and performance. Durable Build: Sturdy construction suitable for gigging musicians. Fast Patch Changes: 8ms switching speed ensures no lag in live settings.
Cons
Mediocre Reverb: Hall Reverb and other reverbs can sound muddy or lack depth. Limited Compressor/Limiter Controls: Lacks detailed parameters, frustrating for pros needing precise adjustments. Overabundance of Effects: Some effects (e.g., flanger, phaser) feel unnecessary for acoustic use, diluting focus on core features. Learning Curve: Two-letter display codes require manual consultation, which may slow initial setup. Discontinued: Availability is limited to used markets, potentially increasing costs for mint condition units.
User Feedback
Users generally praise Zoom A2.1u for its sound quality and versatility. One reviewer called it an “awesome, amazing acoustic guitar effects pedal,” highlighting its ability to mimic signature guitar sounds and enhance playing sensitivity when paired with a quality acoustic amp like the Crate CA125D. Another user appreciated its clean XLR output and customizable patches but noted the reverb and compressor shortcomings for professional gigs. On forums like The Acoustic Guitar Forum, players value the tuner and chorus/reverb effects but often bypass most effects for a natural sound, suggesting the pedal’s strength lies in subtle enhancements rather than extreme effects. Some report no noise issues, countering rumors of hum or interference, provided the pickup system is clean.
Conclusion
The Zoom A2.1u Acoustic Guitar Effects Pedal is a feature-rich, durable, and affordable option for acoustic guitarists seeking to enhance their sound for live performances or recording. Its strengths lie in its guitar modeling, clean output, and practical features like feedback control and USB connectivity. While the reverb and compressor fall short for some professional applications, the pedal’s versatility, built-in tuner, and drum machine make it a valuable all-in-one solution for hobbyists and semi-pros. For players who prioritize a natural acoustic tone with subtle effects, the A2.1u delivers, but those needing pristine reverb or advanced compression may require additional gear. Though discontinued, it remains a solid choice on the used market for its price and functionality.
Rating: 4/5
Zoom A2.1u Recommended for: Acoustic guitarists looking for a compact, multi-purpose pedal for gigs, practice, or recording, who don’t mind tweaking to overcome reverb and compressor limitations.
Love guitar gear and want to make some extra money? Being creator on YouTube might be your ticket. Not only can your videos earn passive income over time, but local music stores might also pay for your demos if you play your cards right. Here’s how to turn your passion into a rewarding side hustle.
Start With What You Have
You don’t need fancy cameras or expensive gear to begin. Your smartphone is probably good enough to shoot high-quality video. If you’re using just one camera, film extra close-ups of the gear later to spice things up. But here’s where most people mess up: bad audio. That’s what separates a “pro” from a blurry, wobbly groin-shot video with muddy sound.
Nail the Sound First
Your viewers want to hear how the gear performs—clearly and accurately. For electric guitar demos, a decent amp modeler or DI box works well. But don’t rely on your phone’s mic. A proper microphone (even a budget one) and a simple audio interface, field recorder, or DAW will massively upgrade your demo quality. If your amp has an emulated out, use it. And yes, you can use your phone’s audio as a sync reference in editing.
for example i have decent condenser mic vs direct to DAW recording took my guitar sound samples:
or you can check my most viewed video so far on my channel:
Keep the Talk Tight
Let’s be honest—no one clicks on a gear demo hoping for a five-minute ramble. Start with playing, give a brief intro, and get right to the point. Focus on answering the main question: “What does this thing sound like?”
Play to the Gear’s Strengths
Demoing a high-gain pedal? Save the mellow jazz licks for another time. Match your playing style to the gear, and if it’s a versatile piece of kit, show that range. Think like the viewer—what would you want to hear if you were considering this pedal or amp?
Don’t Overplay
You don’t have to shred like Yngwie Malmsteen. In fact, it’s better if you don’t try to. Play something musical and relevant. You’re showcasing the gear—not your chops.
Also, avoid jamming over copyrighted backing tracks; it can get your video flagged or demonetized.
Edit Smart, Not Fancy
You don’t need Hollywood software to make a clean, pro-looking video. Free tools like iMovie (Mac) or GoPro Studio (Mac & PC) work just fine. Use cutaways, close-ups, and alternate angles to keep the video visually interesting. Keep it short, punchy, and polished.
Guitarlearner creator on Youtube Channel
Build Your Channel Creator on Youtube
Want to land a deal with a music shop or gear brand? Show them your reach. Start by consistently uploading demos, naming your videos clearly (e.g., “Boss OC-3 Super Octave Pedal Demo”), and tagging them well. Ask viewers to subscribe. Create a memorable channel name that reflects your niche or personality. Mine on Youtube is GuitarLearner. Surely you are welcome to subscribe and feel free to leave comments there.
Make the Pitch
Once you’ve built a small portfolio, reach out to local stores or brands. But first—do your homework. What kind of gear do they stock? Are they active online? What can you offer them? Think: more views, more clicks, more sales. Tailor your pitch to match their goals.
Timing is Everything
Independent music stores are often swamped, so be smart about how and when you approach them. Ask for the manager, not the part-timer behind the counter. Call ahead and book a quick appointment. Bring your best videos on a tablet or laptop, and come across as friendly, professional, and realistic. Avoid busy times like Saturdays or right before closing.
Another option is looking for entertainment park with music theme in it to make deal with. I got one video for that:
Make It Worth Their While
If a store is hiring you to create videos, their goal is simple: sell gear. Make sure your video includes branding, mentions the shop name, and clearly shows the gear’s price. Add a “Buy It Now” link in your video description to make it easy for viewers to take action.
Ready to Press Record?
Becoming a gear demo creator on Youtube isn’t just for pros—it’s for players who love gear and want to share their passion. Start small, build up your skills, and soon enough, you could be making money doing what you already love: playing guitar and talking gear.
There are few acts in live music more iconic—or more divisive—than the destruction of a musical instrument on stage. Whether it’s a guitar slammed into an amp, a drum kit kicked over in chaos, or a piano set ablaze, this dramatic act has long stood at the crossroads of rebellion, performance art, and raw emotion.
From the early days of rock and roll to modern alternative and grunge, the History of Musicians smashing instruments has symbolized everything from anti-establishment sentiment to personal catharsis. But what’s the story behind this phenomenon? Why do musicians destroy the very tools they use to create music?
History of Musicians Smashing Their Instruments Early Origins
When Rebellion Met Performance
The modern history of instrument destruction arguably begins in the 1960s with Pete Townshend of The Who. Known for his windmill guitar moves and wild stage presence, Townshend first broke his guitar accidentally at a London club in 1964. Instead of embarrassment, the moment drew raucous applause—so he turned it into a recurring act.
Townshend later explained that this was inspired by auto-destructive art, a movement led by German artist Gustav Metzger, who saw destruction as a legitimate artistic method. For Townshend, smashing a guitar wasn’t just shock value—it was a statement about the impermanence of creation and the chaotic energy of youth culture.
The Hendrix Ritual: Fire and Transcendence
No conversation about instrument destruction is complete without Jimi Hendrix, who turned the act into something spiritual. At the Monterey Pop Festival in 1967, Hendrix set his guitar on fire before smashing it to pieces. The moment was electric—almost mythological.
Hendrix described the act as a sacrifice. In a genre saturated with masculinity and volume, Hendrix’s performance fused shamanism, soul, and self-expression. For him, destruction wasn’t just rebellion—it was transcendence, as if he was offering his art to a higher power.
Punk Rock and the Politics of Chaos
In the late 1970s and early 1980s, punk bands embraced instrument destruction with raw urgency. Bands like The Clash, The Sex Pistols, and The Germs weren’t looking to be poetic—they were angry, and they wanted everyone to feel it.
Smashing gear became an anti-commercial, anti-polished statement. Punk was about rejecting the mainstream, and nothing said “I don’t care about the system” quite like destroying your own gear in front of an audience.
It was around this time that instrument destruction became more than just a moment—it became part of a musician’s identity and message.
Grunge, Rage, and Emotional Collapse
By the 1990s, grunge picked up the tradition and injected it with the angst of a disillusioned generation. Kurt Cobain of Nirvana made a habit of violently demolishing his guitars on stage, especially in their early years. For Cobain, the act seemed to be a genuine release of emotion—a visible manifestation of inner turmoil, rather than a performance stunt.
Following that wave came Mike McCready, lead guitarist of Pearl Jam, another key figure in the Seattle grunge movement. Though McCready wasn’t known for frequent gear-smashing, one particularly famous moment came during Pearl Jam’s performance at the 1992 Pinkpop Festival in the Netherlands. The latest one was at Pearl Jam’s European tour in Amsterdam 2022. Caught up in the energy of the crowd and the intensity of the performance, McCready slammed his Fender Stratocaster to the ground, smashing it apart in a display of pure adrenaline and catharsis.
Unlike some of his peers, McCready didn’t make instrument destruction a signature move—but when it did happen, it felt authentic. His smash wasn’t choreographed or for attention—it came from the music, from the moment. That made it resonate even more with fans who saw it live or on video later. McCready proved that destruction can be rare but still deeply symbolic.
A new chapter in History of Musicians smashing guitars
While instrument smashing began as rebellion and art, its meaning has evolved over time. Some critics argue that what was once subversive has now become cliché. In an age of social media, staged “rage” moments can come off as gimmicky or hollow.
However, others see it differently. The destruction of an instrument—something many fans dream of owning—is still a powerful symbol. It represents the loss of control, the overwhelming emotion of performing, or even a protest against the commodification of music. It’s chaotic, primal, and hard to fake.
Of course, not every artist can afford to smash gear every night. Guitars, amps, and drum kits are expensive, and not all bands have the budget of a headliner. That hasn’t stopped some from creatively working around it—using cheap gear just for destruction, or saving the smash for big moments like festivals or final tour stops.
Ironically, destroyed instruments have become collector’s items. Hendrix’s burned Strat sold for nearly $380,000. Even smashed fragments of Townshend’s guitars have been auctioned for thousands. What was once a moment of rebellion has, in some ways, been absorbed into the very commercial culture it once fought against.
In the 21st century, artists are finding new ways to channel the energy behind instrument destruction. Some lean into digital performance tools—distorting, glitching, and manipulating sound in ways that suggest “sonic destruction” rather than physical. Others, like St. Vincent (Annie Clark), comment on the tradition by subverting expectations: breaking the mold without breaking the gear.
Still, the visceral impact of smashing an instrument endures. It remains a raw, emotional punctuation mark in the live experience. Not every artist needs to do it, but when it happens—like with Mike McCready at Pinkpop—it’s unforgettable.
Final thoughts
At its core, the destruction of musical instruments is about expression. Whether it’s protest, passion, ritual, or rebellion, the act captures something uniquely human: the desire to be seen and felt in a world that often asks us to behave and conform.
For some, breaking a guitar is the only way to cut through the noise. And in that moment, surrounded by splinters and sound, the message is clear: art doesn’t always have to be preserved. Sometimes, it needs to be shattered. Breaking to Be Heard
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