Song Rig

The Spirit of Radio

Alex Lifeson · Permanent Waves · 1980

Tone Overview

What Makes This Sound Unique

Lifeson's most versatile performance in one track — clean acoustic-style intro, heavy rhythm crunch, melodic leads, and a reggae breakdown all within four minutes. Each section uses a noticeably different pickup position and amp approach.

Signal Chain

1Gibson Les Paul (intro rhythm)
2Fender Stratocaster (leads and solo)
3Marshall JMP 2203
4MXR Phase 100

Amp Settings

Gain / Volume7

Bass6

Mid7

Treble7

Presence6

The Marshall JMP gives the main rhythm and lead sections their cutting mid-forward character. The intro almost sounds acoustic but is a clean electric with light pick touch. The reggae breakdown uses a choppier, muted approach with different EQ.

Technique

How to Play It

The opening arpeggio mimics an acoustic feel on electric — achieved with a Les Paul on the neck pickup, picking very lightly near the bridge. The main riff uses alternating open strings against fretted notes to create the cascading quality.

Budget Alternative

Achievable With

Guitar with both humbucker and single-coil options (or two guitars) + Marshall-voiced amp. The stylistic range within one track makes this one of the more demanding Lifeson performances to cover in a live context.