Rhys Griffiths, known on stage as IV, is the lead guitarist for Sleep Token, a British band celebrated for its atmospheric and genre-defying music. Before joining Sleep Token, Griffiths was an integral part of the metalcore band Continents from 2013 to 2019, where he played guitar and contributed vocals. His time with Continents helped him develop a heavy yet melodic guitar style, which he has expertly woven into Sleep Token’s sound. Transitioning from a guitar tech to the role of lead guitarist for Sleep Token marked a pivotal moment in his career, allowing him to bring a more creative influence to the band’s distinctive musical direction. He employs extended-range guitars and advanced digital modeling tools like the Neural DSP Quad Cortex, crafting a rich variety of sounds that are crucial to Sleep Token’s immersive and dynamic music. He is also active on Instagram under the handle @iv_sleeptoken, where he engages with over 223,000 followers, sharing glimpses of his performances and insights into his role within the band
In Sleep Token, IV’s precise and emotive playing is key to the band’s unique sound. He frequently uses extended-range guitars, such as the Jackson Custom Shop Monarkh and Gretsch G5260 Electromatic Jet Baritone, which allow him to explore a wide range of tones from hauntingly beautiful to intensely aggressive. His live performances are known for their engaging energy and tight synchronization with the rhythm section, particularly during major shows at venues like the Mitsubishi Hall in Düsseldorf and the Verti Music Hall in Berlin. With his background in both technical and performance aspects of music, Griffiths is an invaluable asset to Sleep Token, enhancing the band’s ability to deliver powerful and immersive live performances.
Rhys Griffiths Bio
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Rhys Griffiths |
| Stage Name | IV |
| Role in Band | Lead Guitarist and Backup Vocalist |
| Previous Bands | Continents (guitarist and vocalist from 2013 to 2019) |
| Genres | Alternative Metal, Progressive Metal, Post-Rock |
| Playing Style | Combines heavy riffs with melodic passages; uses extended-range guitars and advanced digital tools |
| Key Contributions | Integral in defining Sleep Token’s sound with precise and emotive guitar playing |
| Live Performance | Known for dynamic stage presence and tight coordination with the band’s rhythm section |
| Gear and Equipment | Jackson Custom Shop Monarkh, Gretsch G5260 Electromatic Jet Baritone, Neural DSP Quad Cortex |
| Significant Tours | Performed at Mitsubishi Hall in Düsseldorf and Verti Music Hall in Berlin |
| Musical Influence | Heavy metal and melodic rock, with a focus on creating atmospheric and emotionally resonant sound |
| Impact on Sleep Token | Adds depth, complexity, and a unique melodic layer to the band’s overall music style |
Rhys Griffiths’ Evolution from Guitar Tech to Lead Guitarist
Rhys Griffiths’ journey within Sleep Token is notable not just for his technical skill but also for his evolution from behind-the-scenes roles to being at the forefront as the lead guitarist. Before joining Sleep Token, Griffiths worked as a guitar tech, a position that allowed him to develop a deep understanding of guitar mechanics and live sound production. This technical background has given him a unique perspective as a musician, enabling him to approach his role with a blend of performance artistry and technical precision. His transition to lead guitarist allowed him to significantly influence Sleep Token’s sound, as he brings a meticulous, detail-oriented approach to crafting the band’s complex guitar arrangements.
