Song Rig
Are You Going With Me?
Pat Metheny · Offramp · 1982
Tone Overview
What Makes This Sound Unique
Pat Metheny's most iconic fusion piece — the Roland GR-300 guitar synthesiser gives the guitar a sustained, flute-like quality unlike any acoustic guitar sound. The synthesiser tracks the guitar pitch and produces a lush, orchestral tone that can sustain indefinitely, transforming the guitar into a lead vocal substitute.
Signal Chain
- 1Ibanez PM-100 (Pat Metheny signature, guitar synthesiser controller)
- 2Roland GR-300 Guitar Synthesizer
- 3Roland Jazz Chorus 120 (for dry guitar blend)
Amp Settings
The Roland GR-300 is the primary voice — the guitar itself is nearly inaudible beneath the synthesiser layer. The JC-120 provides a slight acoustic guitar blend beneath the synth tone for naturalness.
Technique
How to Play It
Slow, singing melody with infinite sustain — the GR-300's synthesiser signal sustains indefinitely without feedback, freeing Metheny to play long, slow melodies without managing sustain artificially. The playing is extraordinarily melodic and vocal.
Budget Alternative
Achievable With
Roland GR-55 or Fishman TriplePlay guitar synthesiser (modern equivalents) → slow, melodic phrasing → the key is playing slowly and melodically rather than technically. The synthesiser tone rewards singing phrases rather than rapid runs.
Your Gear
Adapt to My Amp
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