lead guitar from “do i wanna know?” by arctic monkeys | ToneDB

do i wanna know?

arctic monkeys

lead guitar

85% ai confidence

Tone Profile

A thick, fuzzy, and slightly sludgy lead tone with a prominent octave-down effect blended in for weight.

Signal Chain

Instrument: Gibson Les Paul Custom (likely) or Fender Jazzmaster

Amp: Selmer Zodiac Twin 50 (Alex Turner) / Hiwatt Custom 50 (Jamie Cook)

Microphone: Shure SM57 / Royer R-121

Processing: Electro-Harmonix POG (or POG 2), Vintage-style Fuzz (e.g., Shin-Ei Companion FY-2 style or ZVex Mastotron), Possible Ibanez Tube Screamer (for boost/shaping), Subtle Phaser/Vibrato (e.g., MXR Phase 90 or Uni-Vibe style)

Other: Crucial blend of the dry signal and the octave-down signal from the POG. Potential use of multiple amps.

Recording Notes

  • The core sound heavily relies on blending an octave-down effect (POG) with the main fuzzy guitar signal.
  • A thick, possibly silicon-based fuzz provides the primary distortion character.
  • Likely used humbucking pickups for the required thickness and sustain.
  • Subtle modulation adds movement, possibly a slow phaser or vibrato.
  • Potential studio layering or double-tracking to enhance thickness.

Recreation Tips

  • Use a POG or similar octave pedal with the octave-down knob set around 50-70% and the dry signal at 100%.
  • Select a thick, saturated fuzz pedal. Experiment with sustain/fuzz controls.
  • Use the bridge or middle pickup position on a humbucker-equipped guitar for clarity within the fuzz.
  • Set amp relatively clean or edge-of-breakup to let the pedals provide the core tone.
  • If using modulation, keep the rate very slow and the depth subtle.