TONEDB

lead guitar from “a-punk” by vampire weekend | ToneDB

a-punk

vampire weekend

lead guitar

75% ai confidence

Tone Profile

The lead guitar tone is bright and jangly, with a slightly overdriven character that adds a subtle bite without being overly distorted. It's a clean, articulate sound with a hint of vintage warmth.

Shop This Rig

ToneDB may earn a commission from purchases made through these links.

The Story

The lead guitar tone on Vampire Weekend's 'A-Punk' was created using a Fender Stratocaster through a Vox AC30 amplifier, recorded with a Shure SM57 microphone. Producer Rostam Batmanglij likely blended a direct input signal with the mic'd amp to achieve the bright, articulate character. The track was recorded at Marlowe Studios in Brooklyn with engineer Shane Stoneback.

Production Credits

Producer: Rostam Batmanglij

Engineer: Shane Stoneback

Recorded at: Marlowe Studios, Brooklyn, NY

Recreation Tips

  • Start with a Fender Stratocaster into a Vox AC30 or similar amp known for its chimey tone.
  • Use the bridge pickup on the Strat for added bite.
  • Set the amp for a clean tone with just a touch of overdrive.
  • Experiment with blending a direct input (DI) signal to add clarity and definition.
  • Use a touch of compression to even out the dynamics.

Original Gear

ToneDB may earn a commission from purchases made through these links.

Substitutions & Recommendations

Squier Classic Vibe '60s StratocasterShop on Reverb$350-$400

Alternative to: Fender Stratocaster

Delivers authentic single-coil jangle and brightness at a budget price point, perfect for recreating that crisp A-Punk lead tone

Vox AC15C1Shop on Reverb$600-$700

Alternative to: Vox AC30

Provides the same chimey AC30 character with EL84 tubes but at lower wattage, ideal for recording that slightly overdriven bite

Universal Audio Vox AC30 PluginPlugin Boutique$150-$200

Alternative to: Vox AC30

Captures the AC30's midrange growl and top-end sparkle digitally, perfect for direct recording with DI blending

Audio-Technica AT2020Shop on Reverb$100-$130

Alternative to: Shure SM57

Condenser mic that captures more high-frequency detail than the SM57, enhancing the jangly character when close-mic'ing the amp

Fender Player StratocasterShop on Reverb$800-$900

Alternative to: Fender Stratocaster

Modern Mexican-made Strat with authentic single-coil pickups that deliver the bridge pickup bite essential for this indie rock tone

Sources

Frequently Asked Questions

Community Insights

No community insights yet. Be the first to contribute!