TONEDB

lead guitar from “just what i needed” by the cars | ToneDB

just what i needed

the cars

lead guitar

90% ai confidence

Tone Profile

A punchy, bright, and articulate new wave lead tone, driven by a Marshall amp, with significant compression for sustain and a distinctive, subtle flanger modulation, especially on the solo.

Signal Chain

Instrument: 1965 Fender Telecaster (or similar, likely bridge pickup)

Amp: Marshall JMP 50-watt head (e.g., Model 1987 or 2204) with a Marshall 4x12 cabinet (likely with Celestion G12M Greenbacks)

Microphone: Shure SM57

Processing: MXR Dyna Comp, MXR Distortion+, Electro-Harmonix Electric Mistress

Other: Roy Thomas Baker likely blended a DI signal of the guitar with the mic'd amp. The Marshall was probably set for an edge-of-breakup tone, with pedals for additional gain and character. Flanger effect might be more prominent on solo sections compared to rhythm/riff parts.

Recording Notes

  • Recorded at Cherokee Studios, Los Angeles.
  • Produced by Roy Thomas Baker, known for his layered production style and blending DI signals with miked amps.
  • Elliot Easton's guitar parts are characterized by their precision, melodic content, and tight execution.
  • The lead guitar often features compressed tones for sustain and a percussive attack.
  • The album was recorded in early 1978.

Recreation Tips

  • The MXR Distortion+ should be used subtly, perhaps as a boost for solos or to add a bit more saturation and grit, not as a heavy distortion.
  • The Electro-Harmonix Electric Mistress flanger should be set for a subtle shimmer or watery texture, especially on held notes and solos, rather than an overpowering 'jet plane' whoosh.
  • Consider the picking attack – Easton’s playing is precise and articulate.
  • If recording, experiment with blending a clean DI signal of your guitar with the mic'd amp signal to emulate Roy Thomas Baker's production technique.
  • Use a Telecaster-style guitar, primarily on the bridge pickup for brightness and twang.
  • A Marshall JMP 50-watt or a similar British-voiced amp (like a Plexi reissue) is crucial. Aim for an edge-of-breakup to light crunch tone from the amp itself.
  • Compression is key: use an MXR Dyna Comp or a similar compressor with noticeable squeeze to achieve the characteristic attack and sustain.

Sources