Originating from Richmond, Virginia, Broadside has steadily built a global following among pop-punk enthusiasts since forming in 2010. Guitarist Niles Gibbs has proven to be a seamless addition to the band’s energetic lineup. Recognized by Alternative Press as one of the “100 Artists You Need To Know in 2015,” the group is currently touring as part of the summer’s Vans Warped Tour.
Niles, we’re excited to have you as part of the ESP family. Do you remember your first encounter with ESP guitars?
Yeah, I believe I do. I was a teenager at the time and used to mess around with them. I vividly remember watching the music video for Atreyu’s “Lip Gloss and Black.” From the very beginning, I thought their guitars looked incredible.
Did you eventually buy one of your own?
I did! My parents were really encouraging. The first ESP I got was the LTD Viper-100FM. Later, I picked up a guitar from the EX Series, and eventually moved on to an EC-1000.
Which ESP model are you currently using in Broadside?
Right now, I’m playing the LTD SN-1000. It’s a powerhouse—solid construction and a fantastic sound.
Did you go with the Floyd Rose version or the Wilkinson trem?
I have the Wilkinson tremolo model. Honestly, I don’t use the tremolo much at all. Even back when I was getting into metal as a kid, tremolo playing was never something I gravitated toward.
Understood. Are the pickups in your current guitar the stock ones?
Yes, the one I have now still has the original pickups. I’ve swapped pickups in other guitars over the years, but I tend to prefer passive pickups overall. To my ears, active ones can sometimes sound overly polished or artificial.
What makes the SN-1000 a good fit for your role in Broadside?
I’ve always favored guitars that are rock solid. With ESP, I know I can count on them to be durable and dependable—no issues with necks or electronics. They’re just well-built instruments I can trust on stage and off.
When shopping for a new guitar, what features matter most to you?
Pickups and the neck are the two things I pay the most attention to. Different necks work for different situations, but ESP’s necks always feel right to me. Their playability is spot-on, and the setup is perfect straight out of the box. I’ve never needed to make any adjustments.
You’re gigging constantly with Broadside. Reliability must be key for you.
Definitely. I’ve been fortunate in that I haven’t had many gear-related issues on tour. I’m very meticulous about maintaining my equipment—some might say obsessive—but it keeps everything running smoothly.
At what age did you start playing guitar?
I picked it up when I was about 13.
What drew you to the guitar in the first place?
To be honest, I didn’t have many friends during middle and high school. Some of the cool older kids were learning guitar, and I thought, “That’s what I want to do.” I begged my parents to let me use my allowance to get a guitar. I played for a bit and then drifted away, but a year later I picked it back up—and this time, something clicked. I found myself spending hours every evening in my room just playing until bedtime.
Were there any guitarists who inspired you early on?
Dan Jacobs and Travis Miguel from Atreyu really stood out to me. It wasn’t just because they played ESP guitars—I genuinely admired their playing. They had a classic rock edge, which resonated with me since I grew up hearing a lot of classic rock and metal from my dad. Bands like Judas Priest and AC/DC were always on in the background. That influence shows up in my own writing today.
It must feel surreal being part of the same artist roster as someone like Glenn Tipton of Judas Priest.
It’s honestly mind-blowing. I’m currently touring with about 15 other bands, many of whom also play ESP guitars—bands like Atreyu and Vanna, who were major inspirations for me. Being in that circle now is just unbelievable.
What do you think is key when it comes to growing as a guitarist?
I’m not sure I have a concrete answer. I’ve never taken formal lessons, and I don’t know music theory. I’ve always been self-taught.
So how did you manage to develop your skills to this level?
I grew up in a pretty remote place, and guitar became my way to disconnect. I immersed myself in it. I’d listen to music, watch YouTube tutorials, and explore techniques like tapping and sweep picking. I’d just sit with a metronome and practice for hours on end, trying to master what I’d seen or heard.
Broadside is typically associated with pop-punk, but do you find inspiration from other musical genres as well?
Totally. I was in several metal bands when I was younger, and I still enjoy metal and hardcore. Everyone in Broadside is into a mix of genres. While pop-punk has always been a favorite, my personal tastes are pretty eclectic. I never stick to one style.
What is it about pop-punk that keeps you coming back?
It’s just insanely fun to perform. I love moving around on stage and going wild. That kind of energy doesn’t always translate well in heavier, more technical bands, where you need to stay still to stay accurate. I used to think, “Standing still is boring.” In Broadside, I get to completely lose myself in the music.
Are there any artists your fans might be surprised you enjoy?
I’m a huge fan of indie and alternative rock. I listen to bands like Turnover and Brand New. I really admire artists who aren’t afraid to experiment. Hearing that kind of creativity reminds me that music doesn’t have to be confined to one box—it’s a true form of expression.
