Song Rig

Fire It Up

Zakk Wylde · Book of Shadows II · 2016

Tone Overview

What Makes This Sound Unique

From Zakk's acoustic-focused Book of Shadows II — a heavy electric track within a predominantly acoustic album. The contrast is intentional: the electric guitar sounds louder and heavier precisely because the surrounding tracks are acoustic. The Marshall tone is essentially the same as his Ozzy period, but heard in a different sonic context.

Signal Chain

1Gibson Les Paul (bullseye, bridge pickup)
2Marshall JCM800 or JVM (cranked)
3Dunlop ZW-45 Wylde Cry Baby Wah

Amp Settings

Gain / Volume9

Bass7

Mid7

Treble7

Presence8

Full Zakk Wylde tone — high gain Marshall, pinch harmonics, aggressive pick attack. The context of an acoustic-heavy album makes this feel heavier than it would on a standard metal record.

Technique

How to Play It

Zakk's signature pinch harmonics — produced by lightly touching the string with the edge of the picking thumb immediately after the pick makes contact, creating a high-pitched harmonic squeal. Requires practice of precise thumb placement.

Budget Alternative

Achievable With

Les Paul → Marshall JCM800 or Boss MT-2 into any amp → Zakk Wylde Cry Baby Wah. The pinch harmonic technique is independent of gear — practice on any electric guitar to build the right-hand motion.

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