Riff Tone

Tonight

Social Distortion

Guitarpunk1990s

Original Gear

GuitarGibson Les Paul Custom Electric Guitar

AmpFender Bassman head into Marshall 4x12 cabinet

PickupsGibson humbuckers (likely stock or period-correct replacements)

Amp Settings

gain6

bass6

mid7

treble7

reverb2

presence6

Effects & Signal Chain

overdriveKlon Klon Centaur (or Klone-type) Overdrive

Notes

Studio recording, 1990 album 'Social Distortion'. Mike Ness is confirmed to use a Les Paul Custom into a Fender Bassman head with Marshall cabs for this era and album. No evidence of alternate guitars or amps for the riff section of 'Tonight'.

Tone Character(10)

mid-forward crunchpunchy and aggressivewarm lower midsarticulate pick attackslight breakup with claritydynamic and touch-sensitivevintage-inspired overdrivetight, focused rhythm soundpresent upper midsno excessive saturation

Difficulty

The riff requires tight, aggressive picking and palm muting typical of punk rhythm guitar, but does not involve advanced techniques or complex chord voicings.

Sources

Social Distortion – Social Distortion - Gear & Equipment Used on the Album | Equipboard Mike Ness (Social Distortion) Guitar Tone : r/Line6Helix - Reddit Mike Ness tone (Social Distortion) | Guitar Forum - The Gear Page

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