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Solo Tone

If Darkness Had a Son

Metallica

Guitarmetal2010s+

Original Gear

GuitarESP KH-2
AmpDiezel VH4 (likely with Mesa/Boogie Rectifier in blend, but Diezel is primary for solos on 72 Seasons era)
PickupsEMG 81/60 active humbuckers

Amp Settings

gain8.5
bass6
mid4
treble7
reverb1
presence6.5

Effects & Signal Chain

wahDunlop Dunlop KH95 Kirk Hammett Signature Cry Baby Wah

Notes

Studio recording, 2022-2023 for 72 Seasons album. Kirk Hammett solo section. No direct evidence of live rig for this song; all info is for studio recording.

Tone Character(10)
tight and percussivescooped midsaggressive palm mutingsinging sustainarticulate pick attackhigh-gain saturationclear note separationslightly compressedcutting upper midsmodern metal lead voicing

Difficulty

The solo features fast alternate picking, expressive wah pedal use, and technical passages requiring advanced coordination and timing, making it challenging for most intermediate players.

Sources

Metallica – If Darkness Had a Son - Gear & Equipment Used on the SingleMetallica – 72 Seasons - Gear & Equipment Used on the ...Pedals for Metallica Tone : r/metalguitar

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If Darkness Had a Son settings for your amp

Exact settings ToneAdapt players use on these amps.

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If Darkness Had a Son by Metallica — Solo Tone Settings | ToneAdapt