Solo Tone

Barbarism Begins at Home

The Smiths

Guitarrock1980s

Original Gear

GuitarRickenbacker 330 (likely 1983-84, as used by Johnny Marr on Meat Is Murder sessions)

AmpFender Twin Reverb (Silverface or early '80s model), paired with Roland JC-120 Jazz Chorus (studio stereo setup)

PickupsRickenbacker Hi-Gain single coils

Amp Settings

gain3

bass5.5

mid7

treble7.5

reverb3.5

presence5.5

Effects & Signal Chain

chorusBoss Boss CE-2 Chorus (or similar chorus pedal)

Notes

Studio recording, 1984-1985. Johnny Marr is documented using a Rickenbacker 330 through a Fender Twin Reverb and Roland JC-120 for Meat Is Murder sessions. Chorus effect is present and likely from a Boss CE-2 or similar pedal. No evidence of overdrive/distortion pedals; tone is clean and chorus-rich. Pickup position inferred from typical Marr usage and tone.

Tone Character(10)

bright and janglycrystal-clear articulationprominent chorus shimmertight and percussiveclean and glassy highsdynamic and responsiveslightly compressed attackfunk-influenced rhythmstereo spreadsubtle amp reverb

Difficulty

The solo requires advanced rhythmic precision, fast single-note funk picking, and clean articulation with complex chord voicings, making it challenging for most players.

Sources

Smiths On Guitar: Johnny Marr's Gear Gear Rundown: Johnny Marr The Smiths – Barbarism Begins At Home (Live 1985) – HGP

Create an account to adapt this tone to your gear

Create Free Account