Artist Name

Erik Mongrain

(0 users)

Logo

Artist Image

Functions

Data Complete 30%

15%

Album Releases

view

Forward
(2012)

Equilibrium
(2008)

Fates
(2007)

Members
1 Male

Popularity

21

Followers
16,353

Origin
origin flag

Montreal

Genre
flag

Acoustic

Style
Rock/Pop

Mood
---

Active

---Present...

Cutout
transparent

Most Loved Tracks

Track	Last.FM Listens	Loves
Air Tap!	93,363	4 users
Fates	53,967	4 users
Fusions	61,358	4 users
Percusienfa	104,683	4 users

Music Video Links

Artist Biography
Available in:

Erik Mongrain, born on April 12, 1980, in Montreal, Canada, is a Canadian acoustic guitarist and composer. He became known for his extraordinary playing technique, in which he frequently performs with the acoustic guitar lying flat across his lap. His music combines modern fingerstyle, percussive guitar techniques, and atmospheric instrumental music to create a distinctive sound.

Mongrain began playing guitar at the age of 14. He initially focused on the electric guitar before discovering his passion for acoustic music. Metallica, Jimi Hendrix, and Kurt Cobain were among his early musical influences. Later, he drew inspiration from innovative acoustic guitarists such as Michael Hedges and Don Ross.

Throughout his musical development, Mongrain created an exceptional technique combining fingerstyle playing with two-handed tapping, harmonics, and percussive effects. His signature approach is known as lap tapping, in which the guitar rests horizontally across his thighs while both hands simultaneously produce melodies, harmonies, and rhythmic patterns.

Mongrain gained international recognition through street performances and online videos of his composition AirTap, which circulated widely on the internet. His unusual playing style and complex musical structures established him as one of the best-known representatives of modern acoustic tapping.

His debut album Fates was released in 2007, showcasing his virtuoso technique through original instrumental compositions. With Equilibrium (2008), he further developed his musical approach, combining rhythmically demanding passages with calm, melodic soundscapes. The album Forward (2012) marked another stage in the evolution of his personal style.

In addition to his studio recordings, Mongrain has performed internationally at concerts and guitar events. His compositions are characterized by alternate tunings, complex rhythms, and the creative use of the entire guitar body as a musical instrument.

Erik Mongrain is regarded as an innovative figure in modern acoustic guitar music. Through his distinctive lap-tapping technique, virtuosic compositions, and experimental approach to the acoustic guitar, he has expanded the possibilities of contemporary fingerstyle playing and inspired numerous guitarists around the world.