Mike Gianelli is an American guitarist, composer, and producer best known in the progressive metal and djent scenes for his highly technical playing, particularly on extended-range guitars such as 8- and 9-string instruments. He combines heavy, low-tuned riffs with melodic lead work, tapping techniques, and ambient textures.
Some highlights of his career include:
- Solo artist: He released the EP Gravity (2015), followed by Adapt (2016) and the full-length album Chapter One(2018). Since then, he has continued releasing singles including VOID (2024), Variant (2025), Vanishing (2025), Maya (2026), and Fragments (2026).
- Bands: Gianelli has been associated with the technical metal bands Dissipate and Bermuda. Around 2014, he toured with Bermuda after the departure of one of their guitarists.
- Playing style: He’s particularly known for pushing the capabilities of 9-string guitars. His EMG TV performances gained attention for demonstrating fluid tapping, sweeping, and melodic phrasing on an instrument that many players use primarily for heavy rhythm work.
