Song Rig
Sick Sick Sick
Josh Homme · Era Vulgaris · 2007
Tone Overview
What Makes This Sound Unique
Fuzz-saturated, baritone-influenced heaviness — Homme tunes down and uses more fuzz on Era Vulgaris than earlier records. The tone is more aggressive and buzzing than the smooth stoner rock of Rated R or Songs for the Deaf. The wah is used rhythmically as a filter.
Signal Chain
- 1Gibson Flying V (down-tuned)
- 2Dunlop Cry Baby (used rhythmically, parked or swept)
- 3high-gain amp (Marshall or Mesa)
- 4germanium fuzz
Amp Settings
Higher gain than most QOTSA material — Era Vulgaris was heavier and more aggressive. Mid-forward EQ maintained. Wah adds harmonic complexity when swept rhythmically on the main riff. Fuzz before amp for the buzzing character.
Technique
How to Play It
Rhythmic wah sweeps coordinated with the riff rhythm — the wah is used as a rhythmic accent, not a lead solo effect. Tight palm muting on the lowest strings contrasts with the open wah sweep on upper strings.
Budget Alternative
Achievable With
Any humbucker guitar down-tuned → germanium fuzz → Dunlop Cry Baby → any high-gain amp with mid-forward EQ.
Your Gear
Adapt to My Amp
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