When Tom Morello announces a new piece of gear, people listen. Morello’s past gear choices — from his heavily modded “Arm the Homeless” guitar to his unique effects rig — have shaped some of the most recognizable tones in modern rock. So when he puts his name behind something new, like a special Reverb drop, it’s rarely just a product, it’s a message.
But this time, it’s not just about chasing tone, it’s about carrying forward a legacy.
The newly released Reverb exclusive Jail Guitar Doors Overdrive, created in collaboration with MXR — a Dunlop brand — is more than your average overdrive pedal. It’s a musical tribute to Wayne Kramer, the legendary MC5 guitarist and tireless prison reform advocate who passed away in early 2024.
Morello and Kramer weren’t just fellow musicians. They were close friends, collaborators, and partners in activism. And this pedal, as Morello puts it, is a way of honoring the spirit and sound of a man who believed that guitars could change lives — even behind bars.
From Detroit Grit to Pedalboard Grit
The Jail Guitar Doors Drive was developed by Johnny Wator (Daredevil Pedals) and Jeorge Tripps (Way Huge), and officially released under the MXR label.
This isn’t a typical overdrive. It features two uniquely voiced gain circuits cascaded together, all controlled by a single knob that adjusts both output level and saturation. The result is tight, dirty, and responsive — much like the kind of tone Kramer was known for in MC5.
The bold red enclosure features artwork by none other than Shepard Fairey, bringing visual weight to match the pedal’s sonic punch. It’s not just a box of distortion — it’s a statement.
Morello describes the sound as “the sonic essence of revolution,” which feels fitting. The tone kicks. But more importantly, it means something.
Why It’s Called “Jail Guitar Doors”
This isn’t just a clever name or a nod to The Clash — it’s named after Jail Guitar Doors USA, the nonprofit Kramer co-founded in 2009 alongside Billy Bragg and Tom Morello.
The organization brings musical instruments and education programs to correctional facilities around the country. Since its launch, they’ve provided thousands of guitars and conducted workshops in prisons, driven by a belief that access to creativity can change a life.
A majority of profits from every pedal sold go directly to the nonprofit. So this isn’t just a tribute — it’s a fundraiser too.
A Personal Mission for Tom Morello
Tom Morello’s admiration for Wayne Kramer runs deep. They played together in Street Sweeper Social Club, but their relationship went far beyond music.
They believed in using their platforms to push for change. They shared stages at protests, benefit shows, and speaking events. And they always saw the guitar as more than just a musical tool — it was a voice.
In a video introducing the pedal, Morello said:
“Wayne Kramer was not just a guitar hero — he was a hero of humanity.”
This pedal is one way of keeping that spirit alive.
This is a pedal that invites you to think beyond the notes. To consider what music can do for someone else. To recognize that sometimes the gear we use can tell a story — not just about sound, but about people, purpose, and the power of second chances.
If that resonates with you, this pedal might be more than just another addition to your board. It might be a small way to be part of something larger.
The MXR Jail Guitar Doors Drive is available now via Reverb and Dunlop. A majority of profits benefit Jail Guitar Doors USA.
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