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Riff Tone

Killing an Arab (Live)

The Cure

Guitarpunk1970s

Original Gear

GuitarFender Telecaster (likely late 1970s model, as used by Robert Smith in early Cure live performances)
AmpFender Twin Reverb (silverface, late 1970s model, typical for The Cure's early live shows)

Amp Settings

gain0
bass5

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Effects & Signal Chain

Notes

Live performance, late 1970s (1979 era). No direct source confirms exact amp/guitar for this specific live version, but period photos and interviews indicate Robert Smith used a Fender Telecaster into a Fender Twin Reverb for early live shows. No evidence of distortion/overdrive pedals for the clean riff section.

Tone Character(10)
bright and cuttingclean and articulatepercussive attackmodulated shimmerslightly glassy highstight and focusedminimal breakupclear note separationdynamic response to pickingsubtle chorus/flanger movement

Difficulty

The riff requires tight, consistent picking and clean articulation, especially with modulation effects engaged. The rhythm is syncopated and energetic, but there are no advanced techniques or fast runs, making it accessible to intermediate players.

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