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lead guitar from “michael” by franz ferdinand | ToneDB

michael

franz ferdinand

lead guitar

85% ai confidence

Tone Profile

A sharp, angular, and rhythmically precise lead tone with a bright, slightly overdriven character, punctuated by a distinct, quick delay. It's energetic and danceable, fitting the post-punk revival vibe.

Signal Chain

Instrument: Fender Telecaster (likely bridge pickup) or Hagstrom P46 Deluxe

Amp: Orange AD30HTC or similar Orange model (e.g., Rockerverb 50)

Microphone: Shure SM57

Processing: Ibanez TS9 Tube Screamer (for light drive/boost), Boss DD-3 Digital Delay (or similar digital delay)

Other: Played on bridge pickup for maximum brightness and cut. The delay is crucial: set to a single, clear repeat, timed as an eighth note (approx. 203ms at 148 BPM) with feedback set low. Amp EQ likely has boosted treble and upper-mids, with moderate gain for a crunchy, not heavily saturated, tone.

Recording Notes

  • The lead guitar is very prominent in the mix, cutting through with a trebly edge.
  • The tone is raw and energetic, characteristic of the band's debut album produced by Tore Johansson.
  • Minimal studio polish on the guitar itself; it sounds fairly direct and aggressive.
  • The rhythmic delay is a signature component of the lead guitar's character and its interplay with the drums.
  • The performance style is staccato and precise, emphasizing the angular nature of the riffs.

Recreation Tips

  • Use the bridge pickup of a bright single-coil guitar like a Telecaster.
  • Set your amplifier for a bright, crunchy tone with good definition – avoid excessive saturation or bass.
  • A digital delay pedal is essential. Set it for a single, clear repeat with a delay time around 200-205ms (an eighth note at ~148 BPM). Keep the feedback low.
  • If your amp is too clean, use an overdrive pedal like a Tube Screamer with the drive set low and level high to push the amp and add a bit of grit and focus.
  • Practice playing with a precise, staccato picking technique to nail the rhythmic feel.
  • Experiment with amp EQ: boost treble and upper-mids, keep bass moderate to tight.

Sources