YAMAHA SHOWCASES SIGNATURE AES ELECTRICS

—Amir Derakh and Ryan Shuck Models Blend Radical Design and Classic Silhouette—

BUENA PARK, CA (February 13, 2002)—Yamaha Corporation of America, Guitar Products, announces the introduction of the Amir Derakh AES-AD6 and Ryan Shuck AES-RS7 electric guitars.

An “Orgy” of New Guitars, Signings

A collaboration between Derakh and Shuck—best known for their work with alt-rock act Orgy—and Yamaha Guitar Development (YGD), both models feature a visually stunning appearance, yet can withstand the punishing demands of today's rock, heavy metal, alternative and other hard-edged music, onstage or in the studio. Both instruments made their debut at Winter NAMM 2002, where it was also announced that Shuck and Derakh are now officially Yamaha Guitar artists.

The 6-string AES-AD6 and 7-string AES-RS7 blend radical, high tech looks together with classic silhouettes. Original Yamaha designs feature uniquely sculptured, lightweight solid Alter bodies, bolt-on Maple necks, unique headstocks, and fingerboards painted to match body color. Detailed appointments include multi-angled body surface cuts, aluminum bar fingerboard inlays, a chrome low-mass Tun-O-Matic style bridge, independent tail pieces, and custom chrome tuners.

Electronics include bridge position direct-mounted, custom designed DiMarzio humbuckers, controlled via a single passive Volume pot. In addition, both models boast a longer 26 _" scale and special string gauge for down tuning to A or B below E—vital to today's edgy, guitar-driven rock styles.

"The AES-AD6 and AES-RS7 have the aggressive looks and attitudes not seen on Yamaha electrics of the past," states Ken Dapron, director, Yamaha Guitar Development. "Working together with Ryan and Amir, we have developed instruments that look, feel and sound like guitars designed for the demands of today's young rock players."

The AES-AD6 is available in Grey Pearl and Blue finishes. The AES-RS7 is available in Black or Burgundy Metallic finishes.

Formed in 1997, Orgy's signature sound has been described as "the fusion of catchy melodic hooks with crushingly loud riffs and electronic-tinged production." Members include vocalist Jay Gordon, guitarists Shuck and Derakh, bassist Paige Haley, and drummer Bobby Hewitt. Their critically-acclaimed debut album, Candyass, was released in 1998, and spawned the single, "Blue Monday"—a pounding cover of the New Order classic. Vapor Transmission followed two years later with the hit, "Fiction (Dreams in Digital)". The band is currently in the studio working on their third LP, set for release in the Spring of 2002 with a supporting tour to follow.

For more information on the AES-AD6 and AES-RS7 signature electric guitars, write Yamaha Corporation of America, Pro Audio & Combo Division, Guitar Products, P.O. Box 6600, Buena Park, CA 90622; telephone (714) 522-9011; e-mail infostation@yamaha.com; or visit www.yamaha.com or www.yamahaguitars.com.