Solo Tone

Eyes Without a Face

Billy Idol

Guitarrock1980s

Original Gear

GuitarHamer SS Signature (Steve Stevens signature model, early prototype, likely with Floyd Rose)

AmpMarshall JCM800 2203 head

PickupsSeymour Duncan JB (bridge humbucker), stock neck humbucker

Amp Settings

gain6.5

bass6

mid6.5

treble7

reverb3.5

presence6

Effects & Signal Chain

distortionPro Co Pro Co RAT

chorusBoss Boss CE-2 Chorus

delayUnknown Delay pedal (model unknown)

Notes

Studio recording, 1983 for the 'Rebel Yell' album. Steve Stevens used his Hamer SS signature prototype with a Marshall JCM800 2203. Effects chain based on period-correct pedalboard photo and interviews. No evidence of live-specific gear for the solo section.

Tone Character(10)

singing sustainlush chorus shimmerclear note separationsmooth lead toneslight edge of breakupambient spaciousnessbright but not harshmodulated claritynot overly saturateddistinct attack

Difficulty

The solo requires intermediate technique, including expressive bends, vibrato, and melodic phrasing, as well as control over sustain and timing with modulation and delay effects.

Sources

Tone Settings for Eyes Without a Face by Billy Idol (guitar and amp)Billy Idol & Billy Idol – Rebel Yell - Gear & Equipment Used on the Album | Equipboard

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