GARZA PODCAST Mike Mushok (STAIND) Named Most Underrated Nu Metal Guitarist

On a new episode of the Garza Podcast, host Chris Garza (Suicide Silence) responds to a fan question that sparked a wave of appreciation for one of nu metal’s most quietly brilliant guitarists. When asked who he believes is the most underrated nu metal guitarist, Garza didn’t hesitate: Mike Mushok of Staind.

Garza expressed admiration for Mushok’s creative playing, emotive heaviness, and signature tone, noting that "you don’t hear people talk about him enough." To back his point, Garza dove into several Staind tracks live on the podcast, highlighting Mushok’s unique riff structures and songwriting approach that helped shape the band’s success through the late '90s and early 2000s.

While the nu metal revival continues to shine a spotlight on many classic acts, Garza’s praise for Mushok aims to reignite interest in a player who helped bridge the worlds of alternative metal and emotional depth—without ever needing to stand in the spotlight.

For fans of nu metal guitar work and Staind’s catalog, this episode is a reminder of just how much subtle brilliance lies behind the band’s most memorable moments.