This week on Gear Factor, we are thrilled to welcome Miles Dimitri Baker from Ice Nine Kills. In this exciting episode, he shares his journey through the world of guitar, showcasing his favorite riffs from the very first time he picked up the instrument to his current musical endeavors.

Discover Miles Dimitri Baker’s Influences That Shaped His Guitar Journey

Every great guitarist’s journey begins with a spark, and for Baker, it was the iconic riff of Nirvana‘s “Smells Like Teen Spirit” that ignited his passion for playing the guitar. This groundbreaking track opened the doors to the world of music for him.

As he delved deeper into the art of guitar playing, one standout influence that solidified his love for the instrument was Children of Bodom. Baker states, “He’s my all-time favorite player.” When reflecting on Alexi Laiho, he describes him as one of the last true rock stars, possessing a unique blend of raw aggression and exceptional skill. “He was an animal,” Baker adds, highlighting the rare combination of talent and attitude that defined Laiho’s playing style.

“The band contributed a fun and bouncy melodic sound to extreme metal, which is a challenging feat. They balanced the thin line between cheesiness and true artistry,” he continues, emphasizing that Children of Bodom remains his favorite band to this day. “Whenever I listen to music, it’s always Children of Bodom that fills my playlist. I adore every single album they’ve released.”

Unveiling the First Riff Miles Dimitri Baker Mastered and His Other Early Favorites

While he can’t quite remember the band behind it (it was The Raconteurs), Baker fondly recalls the simple yet catchy guitar part he learned from “Steady, As She Goes.” He admits, “I remember playing it poorly alongside my dad, but it was a cherished memory.” This moment marked a significant milestone in his early guitar journey.

Additionally, some of his early favorite tracks included “Wild Side” by Mötley Crüe and “Snow” by the Red Hot Chili Peppers. These songs exemplify the diverse range of influences that shaped his musical style as a guitarist.

Exploring Favorite Guitar Solos and Unique Riffs from Ice Nine Kills

In this episode, Baker takes a moment to showcase one of the first original riffs he ever crafted, alongside highlighting the unforgettable solo from “Downfall” by Children of Bodom, which he considers one of the first solos he mastered. He also discusses the various techniques that have posed challenges throughout his career, along with sharing his favorite riffs from Ice Nine Kills and much more.

Don’t miss the full episode available for viewing below.

Stay connected with Miles Dimitri Baker on Instagram and Facebook for more updates and insights.

Experience the Mastery of Miles Dimitri Baker as He Plays His Favorite Riffs

What’s New with Ice Nine Kills in 2025?

As we look forward to the future, Ice Nine Kills has recently unveiled their latest release, “The Great Unknown,” accompanied by a visually striking music video inspired by The Matrix, which premiered in early July.

Watch the Music Video for Ice Nine Kills’ “The Great Unknown”

Mark your calendars, as Ice Nine Kills will kick off their Hell of a Summer tour on August 8, starting in Green Bay, Wisconsin. They will be joined by incredible acts including Dayseeker, Kim Dracula, and The Funeral Portrait, with Mest joining the lineup starting September 2.

This exciting tour will culminate at The Silver Scream Con at the DCU Center in Worcester, Massachusetts on September 13, offering fans a spectacular finale to an unforgettable summer.

Check out the tour dates below, and visit the Ice Nine Kills website for tickets and further information on this thrilling event.

Follow Ice Nine Kills on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and X for the latest news and updates.

Mark Your Calendars for Ice Nine Kills’ Hell of a Summer 2025 Tour Dates