Sleep Token has exploded onto the heavy music scene, captivating audiences with their unique blend of alt-metal, progressive rock, and haunting atmospherics. A significant part of their enigmatic appeal lies in the band’s anonymity, with members known only as Vessel, II, III, and IV.
While their true identities remain largely under wraps, we’ve finally got some fascinating insights into the gear that shapes the monumental sound of guitarist IV.
The Evolution of IV’s Axe Arsenal
For years, IV was known for wielding a Gretsch Baritone and various Jackson guitars.
Jackson Custom Shop
However, his on-stage arsenal has seen a rapid evolution, now featuring several custom instruments from Jackson’s prestigious Custom Shop.
Griffiths’ journey to becoming Sleep Token’s enigmatic guitarist is a story in itself. Before joining the masked collective, he was a pivotal force in the UK hardcore band Continents, serving as both guitarist and vocalist.
This background undoubtedly influences his contributions to Sleep Token, enriching their sound with a blend of aggressive precision and emotive depth.
IV’s Signature Sound: Beyond the Notes
IV’s playing style is characterized by its precision and emotional resonance. He frequently employs extended-range guitars, allowing him to explore a vast spectrum of tones, from delicate cleans to crushing, heavy riffs.
His mastery of advanced digital modeling tools, such as the Neural DSP Quad Cortex, is crucial to creating the diverse soundscapes that define Sleep Token’s music.
Neural DSP Quad Cortex at Andertons
Neural DSP Quad Cortex at Gear4Music
Neural DSP Quad Cortex at Sweetwater
Neural DSP Quad Cortex at Thomann
Revv Amps
During recent sold-out UK arena shows, a comprehensive look at IV’s rig was finally unveiled by his guitar tech, Billy.
The Quad Cortex is indeed his primary tone-bringer, with both a main unit and a spare kept off-stage and controlled via MIDI.
Interestingly, Revv Amps also play a key role; Billy revealed that their main tones come from a Revv Generator amp head and Mesa cab, captured and run through the Quad Cortex.
Revv Generator at 120 MKIII at Andertons
Revv Generator G50 at Andertons
Revv Generator at 120 MKIII at Sweetwater
Revv Generator G50 at Sweetwater
Revv Generator at 120 MKIII at Thomann
For added fullness, the Quad Cortex’s doubler feature is also utilized.
The Guitars That Deliver the Heaviness
Among IV’s impressive collection, several standout guitars deserve a closer look:
- The Custom Baritone: A custom single-cut baritone from Jackson’s Custom Shop is a cornerstone of IV’s sound. Boasting a substantial 30-inch scale, this instrument truly blurs the line between a guitar and a bass, providing immense low-end power. Its neck is a striking combination of roasted maple and pale moon ebony, and it features an Evertune bridge for impeccable tuning stability, as well as Lundgren pickups, a brand also favored by heavyweights like Meshuggah and Ghost. A cool, minimalist touch is the single volume control positioned near the lower edge of the body.
- The 8-String Beast: IV also relies on an 8-string Jackson that shares many specifications with his custom baritone, albeit with a slightly shorter 28-inch scale and different pickups. This guitar is loaded with Fishman Fluence Modern humbuckers, known for their clarity and versatility across high-gain and clean tones. All his 8-strings are tuned to a low E-A-E-A-D-G-B-e.
- Aristides and Balaguer: Beyond his Jacksons, IV incorporates an Aristides multi-scale 080SR 8-string into his rig. This S-type body guitar features a richlite fretboard, Bare Knuckle Ragnarok pickups, and a multi-scale Evertune bridge, all finished in a unique Desert Tan. Additionally, a custom-built Balaguer Espada 7-string with a 28.5-inch scale, roasted maple/walnut neck, and Fishman Modern Fluence pickups is tuned to drop A using D’Addario 10-64s.
- Vessel’s Telecaster: Even frontman Vessel gets in on the guitar action, using a Fender Telecaster American Ultra II for the song “Missing Limbs,” played solo with a capo on the fourth fret and the neck pickup engaged.
How to Get That Sleep Token Guitar Sound
Replicating Sleep Token’s nuanced and powerful guitar sound might seem daunting, but with the right approach and some clever gear choices, you can certainly get into the ballpark.
It’s a blend of extended-range instruments, precise digital processing, and a keen ear for dynamics.
- Extended-Range Guitars are Key: IV’s reliance on baritone 6-strings, 7-strings, and 8-strings is fundamental to the band’s heavy, low-tuned riffs. Look for guitars with scale lengths of 27 inches or longer. Brands like Jackson, Schecter, Ibanez, and Harley Benton (for budget-friendly options) offer excellent multi-string and baritone models.
- Active Pickups for Clarity and Punch: Fishman Fluence Moderns and Lundgren pickups are crucial to IV’s tone. These active humbuckers provide the high output and clarity needed for Sleep Token’s articulate, yet aggressive, sound. Bare Knuckle Ragnaroks are another great option.
- Digital Modeling is Your Friend: The Neural DSP Quad Cortex is at the heart of IV’s rig. While a Quad Cortex is an investment, many other digital modelers and plugins can help you achieve similar results. Look into options like the Line 6 Helix, Kemper Profiler, or even more affordable multi-effects pedals from companies like Valeton. The key is to find high-gain amp models (think Mesa Rectifier, 5150, or Revv Generator captures) and experiment with cab IRs.
- Embrace Tunings and Thick Strings: Sleep Token’s low tunings (like E-A-E-A-D-G-B-e on 8-strings or drop A on 7-strings) are essential. You’ll need heavy gauge strings (e.g., D’Addario 10-64s, or even thicker for 8-strings) to maintain tension and clarity at these low pitches.
- Dynamic Effects and Nuance: Don’t just focus on high-gain. Sleep Token’s sound thrives on dynamic shifts. Incorporate subtle reverb and delay for atmospheric clean sections. A good noise gate is also vital to keep your high-gain tones tight and articulate, avoiding unwanted muddiness. For specific effects like the flanger in “The Summoning” outro or the tremolo in “Hypnosis” intro, dedicated pedals or versatile digital effects can help.
- Practice Precision: IV’s playing is precise and emotive. Work on your picking hand accuracy and muting techniques to achieve that tight, controlled low-end. Don’t shy away from digging into the strings when needed.
Sleep Tones
While a custom shop guitar might be out of reach for most, the spirit of IV’s sound lies in the combination of extended range, powerful pickups, and intelligent use of digital processing.
With the right gear and a dedicated approach to practice, you can begin to unlock the mysteries of Sleep Token’s captivating guitar tones.
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