Riff Tone

City Nights

Allan Holdsworth

Guitarjazz1980s

Original Gear

GuitarSteinberger GL2T

AmpYamaha DG80-112 (likely), or Hughes & Kettner Cream Machine (possible, but less likely for this era/album)

PickupsEMG SA single coils (neck/middle), EMG 85 humbucker (bridge)

Amp Settings

gain5

bass6.5

mid7

treble6.5

reverb3

presence6

Effects & Signal Chain

delayUnknown Delay pedal (model unknown)

chorusUnknown Chorus pedal (model unknown)

Notes

Studio recording, 1989. 'City Nights' is from the album 'Secrets.' Holdsworth was known to use the Steinberger GL2T with EMG pickups in this period. No direct evidence for pedals or amp settings for this specific track, but the Steinberger and EMG combo is confirmed for this era. No evidence of live rig for this song's riff section.

Tone Character(10)

warm and smoothliquid legatoslightly compressedrounded attackclear note separationsinging sustainvery low pick noisearticulate chord voicingsmildly overdrivenno harshness or fizz

Difficulty

The riff requires advanced legato technique, large stretches, and precise articulation to achieve Holdsworth's signature smooth, flowing sound. The harmonic and rhythmic complexity also demands a high level of fretboard knowledge.

Sources

Allan Holdsworth | Equipboard The greatest guitar gear of the 21st century (so far)Titans of Tremolo - Premier Guitar

This tone has been researched 2 times by the community

Create an account to adapt this tone to your gear

Create Free Account