Jerry Cantrell - Guitar Setup & Tunings
Alice in Chains
Quick Facts
- Primary Tuning
- Half Step Down
- String Gauge
- .010-.046
- String Brand
- Ernie Ball
- Genre
- Grunge / Alternative Rock
About Jerry Cantrell's Sound
Jerry Fulton Cantrell Jr. (born 1966) is the primary songwriter and guitarist of Alice in Chains, one of grunge's most influential bands. His heavy riffs combined with Layne Staley's (and later William DuVall's) vocals created a dark, sludgy sound distinct from Seattle peers. Cantrell's use of the talk box and wah pedal became signature elements. After Staley's death in 2002, Cantrell continued with solo work and eventually reformed Alice in Chains. His riff-writing influenced countless metal and alternative bands. Alice in Chains has sold over 30 million albums worldwide.
Tunings Used
Eb Standard - 5 songs
- Man in the BoxTry this tuning →
- RoosterTry this tuning →
- Would?Try this tuning →
- Down in a HoleTry this tuning →
- No ExcusesTry this tuning →
Drop Db - 4 songs
- Them BonesTry this tuning →
- Dam That RiverTry this tuning →
- Angry ChairTry this tuning →
- Sludge FactoryTry this tuning →
String Setup
Primary Strings
Ernie Ball
.010-.046
Why Jerry Cantrell uses these
Cantrell has stated that Eb standard is 'standard tuning' for Alice in Chains - essentially everything is down a half-step. He uses remarkably light .010 gauge strings even for Drop Db tuning, proving heavy tones don't require heavy strings. His G&L Rampage guitars and later his signature models feature hot pickups that compensate for lighter string tension. Cantrell's riffs often emphasize semitones and dissonant intervals that define the AIC sound. His use of the Dunlop wah and talk box (heard on 'Man in the Box') became integral to the band's identity.