Song Rig
Guardian Angel
John McLaughlin · Apocalypse · 1974
Tone Overview
What Makes This Sound Unique
Orchestral and expansive — McLaughlin's double-neck guitar playing against a full orchestra blurs the line between the electric and acoustic textures. The clean passages have a crystalline quality while the overdriven sections surge with harmonic density.
Signal Chain
- 1Gibson EDS-1275 double-neck (6 and 12-string)
- 2Marshall Super Lead 100W (moderate volume)
Amp Settings
The 12-string neck runs cleaner, the 6-string with more drive. Moderate volume on the Marshall to blend with the orchestral arrangement — not the full-volume attack of Inner Mounting Flame.
Technique
How to Play It
Switching between 6-string lead runs and 12-string chord voicings mid-phrase, with fluid legato across both necks.
Budget Alternative
Achievable With
12-string electric (Rickenbacker 360/12 or similar) alternating with a standard electric through a Blues Driver at moderate gain.
Your Gear
Adapt to My Amp
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