Solo Tone

The Crying Machine

Steve Vai

Guitarrock1990s

Original Gear

GuitarIbanez JEM777

AmpCarvin X100B

PickupsDiMarzio Evolution (HSH configuration, bridge humbucker for solo)

Amp Settings

gain7.5

bass6

mid6.5

treble7

reverb3

presence6.5

Effects & Signal Chain

wahMorley Morley Bad Horsie 2 Contour Wah

distortionIbanez Ibanez Jemini Distortion

delayBoss Boss DD-7 Digital Delay

Notes

Studio recording, 1996 (Fire Garden album). Gear confirmed for this era and song by multiple sources. Vai is known to use the bridge humbucker for solos on the JEM. No evidence of live rig or alternate guitars for this studio solo.

Tone Character(10)

singing sustainfluid legato runsexpressive wah sweepscrystal-clear articulationtight low endcutting upper midsharmonic overtonesdynamic pick attackrich delay trailsmodern shred lead tone

Difficulty

This solo requires expert-level technique due to its speed, intricate legato passages, expressive wah phrasing, and advanced control of bends and vibrato.

Sources

Steve Vai's Guitar Gear, Pedalboard & Amps - Equipboard Fyi - Steve Vai is working with Neural on an Archetype Vai - Reddit

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