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Am I Evil? — Metallica1 / 2
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Am I Evil? Riff Guitar Tone Settings — Metallica

Metallica · 1980s · metal

studio

Original Recording

Guitar
ESP MX220 (custom, black, 1980s, James Hetfield) or Gibson Explorer (Kirk Hammett, 1980s)
Pickups
EMG 81 (bridge, active humbucker, James Hetfield); EMG 81/60 set (Kirk Hammett, bridge/neck, active humbuckers)
Amp
Mesa/Boogie Mark IIC+ (studio recording, 1984-1987 era)
Pickup Position
Bridge pickup

Studio recording, 1984-1987. Metallica's 'Am I Evil?' riff section was recorded for the 'Garage Days Re-Revisited' EP and 'Garage Inc.' compilation, using the band's classic 1980s setup: ESP MX220 or Gibson Explorer with EMG 81 pickups into a Mesa/Boogie Mark IIC+ head. No confirmed pedal use for the riff section. Settings estimated based on era, genre, and amp model. No evidence of effects loop or additional pedals for rhythm/riff section.

Amp Settings

Mids
3.5
Bass
6
Gain
8
Reverb
0
Treble
7.5
Presence
6

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Tone Character

  • tight and percussive
  • scooped mids
  • aggressive palm muting
  • high-gain saturation
  • crisp attack
  • articulate low end
  • dry, focused sound
  • minimal ambience
  • clear note separation
  • chunky rhythm crunch

Notes & Caveats

  • ⚠️No direct source lists exact amp knob settings for the studio recording of 'Am I Evil?' by Metallica; settings are estimated based on typical 1980s Mesa/Boogie Mark IIC+ usage for Metallica's rhythm tone.
  • ⚠️No evidence of pedals or effects used in the riff section; Metallica's classic rhythm tone is known for being dry and tight with no reverb or delay.
  • ⚠️Guitar model is inferred from era and known studio gear; ESP MX220 (Hetfield) and Gibson Explorer (Hammett) with EMG 81 pickups were standard for Metallica's 1980s rhythm tracks.
  • ⚠️If new evidence emerges of pedal or effect use in the riff section, update accordingly.
  • ⚠️Settings cross-referenced with genre and era conventions for accuracy. Metallica's 'Am I Evil?' (Garage Days/Justice era) uses a high-gain, scooped-mid tone typical of late 80s thrash, with tight low end, bright but not harsh treble, and a dry, in-your-face sound. These settings reflect James Hetfield's Mesa/Boogie Mark IIC+ approach and the genre's production style.

Sources