Thurston Moore

• Custom alternate tunings are essential — Moore frequently uses open and modified tunings. CGDGBD, GGDDGG and other non-standard configurations create the resonant, clashing intervals
• The Twin Reverb runs clean but loud — the distortion comes from the amp working hard, not from pedals
• Objects on the strings: drumsticks or Allen keys placed under the strings near the nut create a sitar-like buzz and extended resonance
• Feedback is controlled by distance from and angle to the amp — small movements change the pitch and intensity of the feedback
• Bowing technique with a cello bow or drumstick creates sustained, non-standard tones — draw the bow across the strings near the saddles
• Rhythm playing is often drone-based — one or two strings ring while chord changes happen around them
• The Jazzmaster and Jaguar have floating bridges and vibrato tailpieces — retune constantly as the alternate tunings destabilize the instrument
• Studying jazz and classical harmony influenced Moore's note choice even in noise contexts — there is musical logic underneath the chaos
• Duet guitar approach with Lee Ranaldo — Sonic Youth always had two guitarists with complementary or deliberately clashing roles. Study how the two parts interact

Thurston Moore of Sonic Youth built a guitar language from custom tunings, extended techniques and noise sculptures — proving that the electric guitar could be a sound-design tool as much as a melody instrument.