Distorted Tone

Clockwork Angels

Rush

Bassprog2010s+

Original Gear

Bass1972 Fender Jazz Bass

AmpOrange 4x10 cabinet (studio, mic'd), SansAmp RBI preamp, Palmer speaker simulator, Avalon U5 DI

PickupsDual single-coil Jazz pickups

Amp Settings

gain6

bass5.5

mid6.5

treble7

presence6.5

compression5.5

Effects & Signal Chain

preampTech 21 Tech 21 SansAmp RBI

preampAvalon Avalon U5

eqPalmer Palmer Speaker Simulator

Notes

Studio recording, 2010-2011, Clockwork Angels album sessions. Main bass was a '72 Jazz, amp was Orange 4x10 cab mic'd, with SansAmp RBI and Palmer speaker sim/Avalon U5 DI blend.

Tone Character(9)

aggressive upper-mid grindbright, cutting attackgrowly midrangetight low endclear note definitionslight overdrive/drivemodern high-fidelitypunchy and articulatesustained with controlled compression

Difficulty

The part features fast, syncopated fingerstyle lines with complex rhythmic interplay and requires precise dynamic control to maintain clarity and punch through overdrive. The technical demand is high due to the tempo, articulation, and need for consistent tone.

Sources

Interview: Rush's Alex Lifeson and Geddy Lee - Premier Guitar Rush Releases “Clockwork Angels” Authentic Bass Tab – No Treble Geddy's bass didn't get noticeably aggressive sounding...How can I come close to Geddy's Lee's tone? | Page 2

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