Song Rig
Pull Me Under
John Petrucci · Images and Words · 1992
Tone Overview
What Makes This Sound Unique
Dream Theater's breakthrough single — Petrucci's most accessible riff on the most accessible DT album. The main riff uses a down-tuned, heavy rhythm tone through a Mesa Boogie Mark IIC+ that is simultaneously technical (odd time signatures) and radio-friendly. The lead sections add the signature Petrucci Mesa high-gain sustain.
Signal Chain
- 1Ibanez Universe 7-string (or 6-string in D standard)
- 2Mesa/Boogie Mark IIC+ (Lead channel)
- 3DigiTech Whammy (specific lead passages)
- 4Boss DD-2 Digital Delay (moderate, 1 repeat)
Amp Settings
Mesa Mark IIC+ on the Lead channel — high gain but with the IIC+'s characteristic midrange density that distinguishes it from a Dual Rectifier. The IIC+ is tighter, more focused, and more tonally complex than the more famous Rectifier. High presence for the lead sections' note definition.
Technique
How to Play It
The main riff uses a 7/8 time signature cycling into 4/4 — Petrucci locks the riff pattern to the bar line rather than fitting it to a conventional groove, which creates the sense of rhythmic displacement that is Dream Theater's compositional signature. Both the technique and the composition require counting against the rhythm section constantly.
Budget Alternative
Achievable With
Any 7-string or 6-string tuned to D standard + Mesa Boogie or high-gain amp (EVH 5150 works well) + Boss DD-8. The time signature awareness is the essential skill — play the riff counting in 7 until it feels natural before adding the 4/4 sections.
Your Gear
Adapt to My Amp
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