Celebrated Summer

The recording

Energetic and abrasive, 'Celebrated Summer' opens with Bob Mould’s razor‑sharp electric riff recorded in July 1984 at Nicollet Studios. Mould used his Ibanez Rocket Roll Flying‑V, run through a high‑gain amp to produce the searing distortion that defines the track’s verses. Mid‑song and at the outro he switches to a 12‑string acoustic, adding bright, ringing chords that contrast the aggressive rhythm section. The recording captures the band’s live intensity, with a tight rhythm foundation and Mould’s guitar sitting prominently in the mix.

Tuning Standard EADGBE

Reported gear

Ibanez Rocket Roll (1978 Flying V)

Guitar

Bob Mould’s primary electric guitar on New Day Rising, delivering the aggressive opening riff on 'Celebrated Summer'.

12‑string acoustic guitar (unspecified)

Acoustic Guitar

A 12‑string acoustic guitar appears in the mid‑song and ending breaks, adding melodic texture to 'Celebrated Summer'.

Alternatives

Ibanez RG Series

Modern equivalent · for the Ibanez Rocket Roll (1978 Flying V)

$400 to $600

Yamaha FG800 12‑string

Modern equivalent · for the 12‑string acoustic guitar (unspecified)

$350 to $450

Practical playing approach

Recreation guidance, not a claim about undocumented studio control positions.

1. 1.Attack the opening riff with tight alternate picking and a strong downstroke on the low strings.
2. 2.Crank the amp volume and use a high‑gain setting to achieve the raw, overdriven tone.
3. 3.Switch to a 12‑string acoustic for the melodic breaks, letting the strings ring open.
4. 4.Use palm‑muted power chords in the verses to tighten the rhythm.
5. 5.Maintain a fast tempo and aggressive feel throughout the song.