Uncle Skunk

Zoo Freaks, get ready to groove to Uncle Skunk by Guthrie Govan from his debut solo album Erotic Cakes, spinning now on THE ZOO! This upbeat, jazzy track is a fan favorite, known for its playful use of a whammy pedal that creates those wild, pitch-shifting guitar sounds around the 55-second mark, leaving listeners wondering how Govan pulls it off. In a discussion on SevenString.org, fans debated whether it’s just the whammy pedal, a tremolo bar, or a combo of both, with most agreeing it’s likely Govan’s signature bending paired with a whammy pedal for that extra zing. Some even speculated he runs his leads through an Eventide processor for that crisp, programmed precision in the song’s repeating motifs. One quirky fan comment on the forum likened the track’s vibe to a “weed strain,” capturing its funky, laid-back charm that’s perfect for the Zoo Crew’s hippie DJ aesthetic.

Another tidbit about Uncle Skunk comes from its unique musical structure. Reviews on Progarchives.com highlight how Govan uses moving harmonies, a technique where the harmonic intervals shift dynamically, unlike the static fifths many guitarists stick to. This gives the song a fresh, unpredictable feel, making it a standout on Erotic Cakes. Fans on Reddit have shared their awe, with one user recalling their disbelief that the album, including Uncle Skunk, was crafted by just Govan, his brother Seth on bass, and drummer Pete Riley, without heavy studio trickery. The track’s sunny disposition and Govan’s ability to make his guitar “squeal like a pig” (as noted in a Miscellany News review) add a humorous edge, perfectly aligning with the Zoo Crew’s eclectic, fun-loving vibe.

Guthrie Govan, born December 27, 1971, in Chelmsford, Essex, UK, started his musical journey at age three, guided by his father who introduced him to the guitar with just three chords and a stack of rock ‘n’ roll records. Young Guthrie soaked up influences from Elvis Presley, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Little Richard, later diving into the Beatles, Cream, Jimi Hendrix, and Frank Zappa. Learning mostly by ear, he developed a versatile style that blends jazz, rock, blues, and shred. By 1993, his talent shone through when he won Guitarist magazine’s “Guitarist of the Year” with his piece Wonderful Slippery Thing, which later appeared on Erotic Cakes. This early success led to gigs as a guitar instructor and contributor to Guitar Techniques magazine, cementing his reputation as a technical wizard and educator.

Govan’s career took off as he joined bands like Asia (2001–2006), GPS, The Young Punx, and The Fellowship, while also forming The Aristocrats and collaborating with Steven Wilson and Hans Zimmer. His debut album Erotic Cakes, released in 2006, was a passion project with his brother Seth and drummer Pete Riley, named after a cheeky Simpsons reference from the “Treehouse of Horror VI” episode. Despite a setback when thousands of copies were stolen from a warehouse (as Govan humorously noted in the album’s sleeve notes), the album became a cult classic among guitar enthusiasts. Today, Govan continues to inspire through his work with The Aristocrats and Hans Zimmer’s live band, showcasing his unmatched versatility.

For more on Guthrie Govan, check out his official website for tour dates and updates. Follow him on Facebook, Instagram, and X for behind-the-scenes content and gear talk. Fans can connect on the Guthrie Govan Fans Facebook group, a lively community sharing covers, tabs, and love for his music. The Aristocrats’ official site is another great spot for updates on his band projects, while JTC Guitar offers lessons and backing tracks, including Uncle Skunk, for aspiring shredders. Keep it funky, Zoo Freaks!