TONEDB

lead guitar from “in bloom” by nirvana | ToneDB

in bloom

nirvana

lead guitar

85% ai confidence

Tone Profile

A thick, heavily distorted lead tone with a swirling chorus effect, delivering a raw and powerful grunge sound.

Signal Chain

Instrument: Fender Mustang (Modified with Humbucker)

Amp: Mesa/Boogie Studio Preamp -> Crown Power Amp -> Marshall 4x12 Cabinet

Microphone: Shure SM57 / Sennheiser MD 421

Processing: Boss DS-1 Distortion, Electro-Harmonix Small Clone Chorus

Other: Bridge humbucker pickup likely used. Potential use of Fender Bassman for some layers.

Recording Notes

  • Recorded at Sound City Studios by Butch Vig.
  • Likely double-tracked guitars for thickness.
  • The Mesa/Boogie preamp provided the core high-gain distortion.
  • The Small Clone chorus was a key element of Cobain's sound during this era, often used subtly on verses and more prominently on solos/choruses.

Recreation Tips

  • Use the bridge pickup (preferably a humbucker).
  • Set the Boss DS-1/DS-2 distortion gain high, tone around noon.
  • Engage the Small Clone chorus with the depth switch up and rate knob around 11-1 o'clock.
  • Use an amp with significant headroom if using pedals for distortion, or drive a high-gain amp's preamp section.
  • Don't be afraid of some noise and feedback; it's part of the raw character.

Sources