-
![]()
3:35
Graphic Equalizers - Introduction
Instructor: Lucas Fowler
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Recording
Style: Metal
Hey guys! This month we're going to go over how to use a Graphic Equalizer to shape the tone of your amp in a very powerful way. Grapic EQ's are a must have pedal in every guitar player's collection, they allow you to very drastically modify the soun...
-
![]()
3:21
Graphic Equalizers - Preamp Prep
Instructor: Lucas Fowler
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Recording
Style: Metal
In part 2, we're going to prep the preamp of the amp for use with the Graphic EQ. You'll notice that some of the things I'm doing here may seem a bit extreme but that is only because we haven't yet added in the EQ to balance it out. Try to get the ti...
-
![]()
9:02
Graphic Equalizers - Adding Graphic EQ
Instructor: Lucas Fowler
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Recording
Style: Metal
In the final section, we'll take a look at how each of these faders effects the tone of the amp in practice. Every amp, speaker and cab is different, so you need to experiment to find the right settings, but this will give you a set of "guidelines" t...
-
![]()
Free
Drop B Tuning Etude - Intro & Performance
Instructor: Lucas Fowler
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Hey guys, this month we're going to look at Drop B tuning. This tuning(B-A-D-G-B-e) simulates the sound of a seven string guitar and allows for some cool chord shapes and heavy riffs. Check out the short track I put together and then we'll break down...
-
![]()
Free
Drop B Tuning Etude - Riff 1
Instructor: Lucas Fowler
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
In the first section, we focus on creating a pedal tone off of the low string. Remember to use downward pick strokes on every note for maximum aggression. Notice that I am using a fairly heavy distortion sound, but cleaned up by rolling back the volu...
-
![]()
Free
Drop B Tuning Etude - Riff 2
Instructor: Lucas Fowler
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
In this section, we are going to use the same melodic idea from the previous figure, but amped up with the guitar turned up and adding in hammer-on and pull-off techniques to the higher notes as embelishments. This gives us a cool thrashing sound tha...
-
![]()
Free
Drop B Tuning Etude - Riff 3
Instructor: Lucas Fowler
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
In the final section, we'll explore the octave shape that this tuning affords us on the low string. Finish up with some nice aggressive galloping pick strokes and you have a killer metal riff!
-
![]()
1:31
Free
Drop B Tuning Etude - Backing Track
Instructor: Lucas Fowler
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Enjoy this backing track for your own jams!
-
![]()
5:14
Rhythmic Displacement in Metal: Playthrough & Intro
Instructor: Mike Salow
Level: Advanced
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Metal
Hi all!
Welcome back to another tutorial. This time around we'll be discussing rhythmic displacement within metal guitar riffs.
The first thing I need to point out is that we will be using a dropped D tuning.
Now, as you may know, the ...
-
![]()
2:05
Rhythmic Displacement in Metal: Original Rhythm
Instructor: Mike Salow
Level: Advanced
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Metal
First, we will take a look at the original rhythm in which our example stems from. This rhythm fits perfectly within one measure in 4/4 but soon we will throw it all off with our displacement.
If we talk about this rhythm with numbers we will ...
-
![]()
4:15
Rhythmic Displacement in Metal: Breakdown
Instructor: Mike Salow
Level: Advanced
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Metal
Moving onto the breakdown of the example riff.
As I mentioned in the previous videos and verbally within this video, we will add a 16th note rest to the original rhythm creating the displacement.
Is this necessary? Not exactly, but it gives u...
-
![]()
0:24
Rhythmic Displacement in Metal Riffs: Backing Track
Instructor: Mike Salow
Level: Advanced
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Metal
Use this backing track to aid in your practice.
-
![]()
1:00
Drop Tuned Triads: Intro
Instructor: Mike Salow
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Chords
Style: Metal
Hi all!
For this tutorial we'll be covering drop tuned major and minor voicings.
Although I am using a 7 string in this tutorial you can use a 6, 7, or 8 string guitar as long as you are in a traditional drop tuning.
In these examples we will o...
-
![]()
4:30
Drop Tuned Triads: Major
Instructor: Mike Salow
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Chords
Style: Metal
Like I said in the previous video we'll be covering three different voicings each occurring on the lower 3 strings.
The first is our root inversion in C major.
C - G - E
1 - 5 - 3
The second voicing is our 1st inversion.
E - C - G
3 ...
-
![]()
3:07
Drop Tuned Triads: Minor
Instructor: Mike Salow
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Chords
Style: Metal
Like I said in the previous video we'll be covering three different voicings each occurring on the lower 3 strings.
The first is our root inversion in C minor.
C - G - Eb
1 - 5 - b3
The second voicing is our 1st inversion.
Eb - C - G
...
-
![]()
4:20
Metal Improv Series- Backing Track
Instructor: Al Joseph
Level: Beginner
Topic: Improvising
Style: Metal
METAL IMPROV
Discipline. Don't judge yourself. Only play what you feel yet keep it simple. This isn't a show of how good you are but how much you can hold back.
Go back and listen to my exaples and realize that I am playing at my best as far as imp...
-
![]()
2:27
Metal Improv Series - Intro
Instructor: Al Joseph
Level: Beginner
Topic: Improvising
Style: Metal
I am not an improviser. However, I want to improve on it! In this tutorial, I want to give you an inside look on some of my own methods into perfecting this territory of music.
Let's begin...
-
![]()
3:34
Metal Improv Series - Development
Instructor: Al Joseph
Level: Beginner
Topic: Improvising
Style: Metal
In my other tutorials on motifs, they present rhythmic ideas in which you can build any structure on, such as harmony or phrases. When you listen to my improvisation demonstration, you'll see that there's not much going on harmonically or rhyth...
-
![]()
2:46
Metal Improv Series - Fretboard Knowledge
Instructor: Al Joseph
Level: Beginner
Topic: Improvising
Style: Metal
Half of the battle is knowing where to find the given notes on the fretboard. Most of us know box shapes and so on, and sometimes it's hard to escape them. However, they are needed and are often misused and abused.
"Misused" as in they are visualize...
-
![]()
0:33
Metal Improv Series - Example No. 1
Instructor: Al Joseph
Level: Beginner
Topic: Improvising
Style: Metal
For once, I don't want you to transcribe this. Pay attention to the simplicity in the rhythm and or harmony.
A lot of players just shred over the backing track, startling their peers. But think of what sets players like Andy Timmons or Joe Satriani ...
-
![]()
0:32
Metal Improv Series - Example No. 2
Instructor: Al Joseph
Level: Beginner
Topic: Improvising
Style: Metal
For once, I don't want you to transcribe this. Pay attention to the simplicity in the rhythm and or harmony.
A lot of players just shred over the backing track, startling their peers. But think of what sets players like Andy Timmons or Joe Satriani ...
-
![]()
0:34
Metal Improv Series - Example No. 3
Instructor: Al Joseph
Level: Beginner
Topic: Improvising
Style: Metal
For once, I don't want you to transcribe this. Pay attention to the simplicity in the rhythm and or harmony.
A lot of players just shred over the backing track, startling their peers. But think of what sets players like Andy Timmons or Joe Satriani ...
-
![]()
4:19
Metal Improv Series - Wrap Up
Instructor: Al Joseph
Level: Beginner
Topic: Improvising
Style: Metal
So this has been me at my bare minimum, taking the time to create rather than ramble off. I can do that and most of you have seen me do this, but I'm looking to tap into a more lyrical depth within my playing.
Isn't it amazing how the next level to ...
-
![]()
0:36
Polyrhythmic Modulation: Playthrough
Instructor: Mike Salow
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Exercises
Style: Metal
Hello again! For this tutorial, we will be focusing on the use of polyrhythmic (or metric) modulation.
Polyrhythms are something that is always there whether you hear them or not. You can switch to a different polyrhythmic meter in every situation. ...
-
![]()
2:37
Polyrhythmic Modulation: Introduction
Instructor: Mike Salow
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Exercises
Style: Metal
For this riff I am tuned to drop C tuning but you do not have to retune in order to play this riff or learn this concept.
You can simply use a C note on your standard tuned guitar or if you want to get creative you can use any harmonies around C.
T...
-
![]()
2:25
Polyrhythmic Modulation: How to Modulate Part 1
Instructor: Mike Salow
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Metal
The first thing we need to do when modulating is identify if we are playing duple or triple grouping so basically are we playing some sort of triplet or not?
Once we figure that out we will know where to go next. So in this case we are starting with...
-
![]()
3:44
Polyrhythmic Modulation: How to Modulate Part 2
Instructor: Mike Salow
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Metal
Now when writing or recording an idea we can easily test if we've done our equation correctly.
Start your recording at 90bpm and play the riff for a minute or more.
Figure out where and when your riff turns around (in this case it’s after 3 b...
-
![]()
4:00
Polyrhythmic Modulation: Playing the Riff Part 1
Instructor: Mike Salow
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
When it comes to playing this riff there are a few things to consider.
First off we do not have a difficult fretting hand part. The picking hand is what we need to focus on.
In order to play this smoothly I use up strokes for all of the notes and I...
-
![]()
2:30
Polyrhythmic Modulation: Playing the Riff Part 2
Instructor: Mike Salow
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
I highly recommend experimenting with this type of modulation.
In the past I have modulated with riffs that I thought might be totally weird and contrived but it actually ended up working very nicely and adding a lot to the song.
I hope you guys en...
-
![]()
1:46
Oblivion - Progressive Metal Etude
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Hi everyone out there in Infinite Guitar land!
In this tutorial we're going to learn a piece I wrote called "Oblivion". One thing I'd like to emphasize in the beginning is that I don't ever want you to just "learn a piece" and then leave it at that....
-
![]()
2:22
Oblivion - Guitars Only and Slowed Tempo
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
In this video I played the song at a slower tempo (90bpm as opposed to the original 123bpm). I also took out the other instrumentation so you can hear the guitars more clearly.
Below I'll paste the section by section analyisis from the previous page...
-
![]()
1:45
Oblivion - Backing Track (123bpm)
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Here we have the backing track!
Now, even if you're an advanced player, I'd still recommend starting with the slowed-down backing track on the next page. Get everything memorized with clean technique before you try playing it up to speed.
-
![]()
2:22
Oblivion - Backing Track (90bpm)
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
On this page you'll find the backing track at a slowed-down tempo of 90bpm.
I hope you have fun learning this song!
-
![]()
1:23
Modern Metal Solo Breakdown: Intro
Instructor: Mike Salow
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Hello again! This is the 4th and final lesson on Modern Metal! If you're new to this series, check out the first tutorial here.
We're finally to the guitar solo! We'll be breaking this solo down into 3 sections.
1. The first section is the first pe...
-
![]()
2:24
Modern Metal Solo Breakdown: Part 1
Instructor: Mike Salow
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Onto the first set of ideas.
I'm a big fan of solos that build into a climactic ending whilst still maintaining some nice technical lines throughout, so I started this solo with a short melody followed by a pentatonic/blues oriented lick.
This was ...
-
![]()
1:32
Modern Metal Solo Breakdown: Part 2
Instructor: Mike Salow
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
The second part of the solo is very similar to the first part and together the two of them almost act as a call and response (minus the rest that would usually accrue between the two ideas in a call and response).
I start again with some simple melo...
-
![]()
3:34
Modern Metal Solo Breakdown: Part 3
Instructor: Mike Salow
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Now onto the final lick.
This lick can be very hard to master because of the mix of techniques and phrasing so take your time and go sloooowwww.
It starts with a 9th (fret) position F# diminished 7 arpeggio that is played ascending in groups of fou...
-
![]()
6:56
AJ's Licks of The Month - Intro & Overview
Instructor: Al Joseph
Level: Crazy!
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
Hello everyone and welcome! For this tutorial we'll be learning 4 fun yet challenging licks. Before we get to the licks, in this video I'm going to be discussing alternate picking, subdivisions, and practicing techniques I've used.
When you're ready...
-
![]()
0:49
AJ's Licks of The Month - Lick 1
Instructor: Al Joseph
Level: Crazy!
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
Alright, let's tackle Lick 1.
Remember:
1. Analyze the accuracy of both hands. The idea is to find a way to make them work together smoothly. Take your time and DON'T force it.
2. Practice using subdivisions. Set the metronome low and increase by ...
-
![]()
0:58
AJ's Licks of The Month - Lick 2
Instructor: Al Joseph
Level: Crazy!
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
Here we are for Lick 2!
Remember:
1. Analyze the accuracy of both hands. The idea is to find a way to make them work together smoothly. Take your time and DON'T force it.
2. Practice using subdivisions. Set the metronome low and increase by subdiv...
-
![]()
0:55
Free
AJ's Licks of The Month - Lick 3
Instructor: Al Joseph
Level: Crazy!
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
Lick 3!
Remember:
1. Analyze the accuracy of both hands. The idea is to find a way to make them work together smoothly. Take your time and DON'T force it.
2. Practice using subdivisions. Set the metronome low and increase by subdivision. This way ...
-
![]()
1:30
AJ's Licks of The Month - Lick 4 & Wrap Up
Instructor: Al Joseph
Level: Crazy!
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
Final lick, Lick 4. Stay tuned to the end of the video for a final wrap-up.
Remember:
1. Analyze the accuracy of both hands. The idea is to find a way to make them work together smoothly. Take your time and DON'T force it.
2. Practice using subdiv...
-
![]()
1:11
AJ's Licks of The Month - Backing Track
Instructor: Al Joseph
Level: Crazy!
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
Here's the backing track, folks! If you need it a little slower, head on over to the next page.
Remember:
1. Analyze the accuracy of both hands. The idea is to find a way to make them work together smoothly. Take your time and DON'T force it.
2. P...
-
![]()
1:15
AJ's Licks of The Month - Backing Track (slow)
Instructor: Al Joseph
Level: Crazy!
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
Here's the backing track slowed down.
Remember:
1. Analyze the accuracy of both hands. The idea is to find a way to make them work together smoothly. Take your time and DON'T force it.
2. Practice using subdivisions. Set the metronome low and incr...
-
![]()
2:42
Modern Metal Rhythm Guitar - Intro
Instructor: Mike Salow
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Hello once again!
We'll finally be breaking down the riffs in the "modern metal" tune I've written for you guys! It's about time! I know! :)
First off, you'll need to tune your guitar to dropped C:
C - G - C - F - A - D
In this tune we have 4 mai...
-
![]()
4:33
Modern Metal Rhythm Guitar - Riff 1
Instructor: Mike Salow
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
The first riff is what I call my "groove riff". Now this is not your typical groove riff because we don't have much rhythmic variation. In this case, we have a tremelo picked riff that has an underlying half-time double kick part. The half-time feel ...
-
![]()
4:22
Modern Metal Rhythm Guitar - Riff 2
Instructor: Mike Salow
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
The second riff in this tune is what I'd call a "thrash" riff. In my mind, the main thing that describes a thrash riff is the back and forth interplay between the kick and snare (again, it's subjective, you might use a different descriptive word).
M...
-
![]()
2:38
Modern Metal Rhythm Guitar - Riff 3
Instructor: Mike Salow
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
The third riff is just a variation of the second riff. Nothing too crazy. All I'm doing here is taking the main phrase and repeating it as to build into the next section. This, accompanied by a blast beat, helps to build into the next section of the ...
-
![]()
3:35
Modern Metal Rhythm Guitar - Riff 4
Instructor: Mike Salow
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Riff 4 is what I call a chordal riff. It's obvious why I give it that name.
This is a very simple right hand pattern of straight alternate picking.
The left hand chordal shapes can be a little difficult so be sure to stretch and not strain too much...
-
![]()
1:00
Modern Metal Rhythm Guitar - Outro Riff
Instructor: Mike Salow
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
The outro riff is a recap of the main thrash riff.
One of my favorite things to do when I'm composing is to bring back ideas that were previously heard in the song. Keep it thematic people! :) Sometimes even if it's just a small chunk of a riff it c...
-
![]()
1:26
Modern Metal Rhythm Guitar - Backing Track
Instructor: Mike Salow
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
I've made a backing track that excludes all of the rhythm guitar parts. Have fun!
-
![]()
2:24
Djent Grooves - Intro to Djent
Instructor: Al Joseph
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Metal
I'm so excited about this tutorial. I've got three full Djent Styled rhythm tracks for you guys to jam to from my newest collection for "Jam Track Central!
http://www.jamtrackcentral.com/artists/al-joseph
It's simple. I'm going to play through thes...
-
![]()
2:48
Djent Grooves - Tuning, Noise Gate, Gear
Instructor: Al Joseph
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Metal
1. Bare in mind the tuning: AEADGBE
2. Using a noise gate set to a comfortable threshhold and slow attack works best for a thighter sound (also a slow release)
3. Have fun!
-
![]()
1:21
Djent Grooves - Song No. 1
Instructor: Al Joseph
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Metal
I love this track! It's in a C# Mixolydian b13 modality, a great key to solo in for my tastes as well. Pay close attention to how these lines stop and go. Remember we're going for tightness here, meaning precise playing and phrasing. One helpful hint...
-
![]()
1:07
Djent Grooves - Song No. 2
Instructor: Al Joseph
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Metal
I call this one a "Djent Bar Blues"!
Try soloing over this one as well. This one is a D blues and ends in D Mixolydian. There's a whole bunch of things you can use this track for practice-wise.
1. Bare in mind the tuning: AEADGBE
2. Using a noise ...
-
![]()
2:19
Djent Grooves - Song No. 3 & Wrap Up
Instructor: Al Joseph
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Metal
This one is my personal favorite. Very challenging from the get-go to keep tight. Definitely be thinking about synching with the kick drum on this one. This has A LOT of twists and turns to boot.
It has a B Mixolydian and Minor tonality. This is the...
-
![]()
1:33
Djent Grooves - Song No. 1 Backing
Instructor: Al Joseph
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Metal
I love this track! It's in a C# Mixolydian b13 modality, a great key to solo in for my tastes as well. Pay close attention to how these lines stop and go. Remember we're going for tightness here, meaning precise playing and phrasing. One helpful hint...
-
![]()
1:08
Djent Grooves - Song No. 2 Backing
Instructor: Al Joseph
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Metal
I call this one a "Djent Bar Blues"!
Try soloing over this one as well. This one is a D blues and ends in D Mixolydian. There's a whole bunch of things you can use this track for practice-wise.
1. Bare in mind the tuning: AEADGBE
2. Using a noise ...
-
![]()
1:36
Djent Grooves - Song No. 3 Backing
Instructor: Al Joseph
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Metal
This one is my personal favorite. Very challenging from the get-go to keep tight. Definitely be thinking about synching with the kick drum on this one. This has A LOT of twists and turns to boot.
It has a B Mixolydian and Minor tonality. This is the...
-
![]()
1:38
Hybrid Riffing - Introduction
Instructor: Chris Feener
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Hey everyone! This tutorial is based around a technique that I've found becoming more and more predominant in my rhythm playing, and I've had a few questions regarding the use of this technique - that technique being hybrid picking (incorporatin...
-
![]()
0:27
Hybrid Riffing - Riff 1
Instructor: Chris Feener
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
RIFF 1 contains a whole bunch of hybrid picking and legato. This approach offers a rather "robotic" sound, as many of the notes lack having a defined "beginning", ie., a pick stroke. Focus heavily on the notated legato, pick-hand middle finger use as...
-
![]()
0:31
Hybrid Riffing - Riff 2
Instructor: Chris Feener
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
RIFF 2 contains more of a "call and answer" approach, as far as technique goes. It begins with a more pick-heavy riff, and is then followed by a hybrid/legato descending lick. Here, we'll get a clearer understanding of how having this weapon in our a...
-
![]()
0:33
Hybrid Riffing - Backing Track
Instructor: Chris Feener
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
The tempo of this etude is 140BPM. Start slow, as demonstrated, and make sure you build up to the official tempo using all the necessary techniques while maintaining cleanliness.
-
![]()
3:54
Recording Modern Metal: Gear
Instructor: Mike Salow
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Recording
Style: Metal
Hello once again!
Before I get into any details, I want to point out that this tutorial is a continuation of my last tutorial, Composing Modern Metal.
This time we'll be discussing the concepts and simple techniques I use to get quality recordings ...
-
![]()
3:50
Recording Modern Metal: Tone
Instructor: Mike Salow
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Recording
Style: Metal
The tone settings I use are in relation to an amp modeler but some of the same principals can be used in the live micing of an amp.
For metal guitar tone, I've chosen a mesa dual rectifier style amp with a 4x12 Marshall style cab which is being mice...
-
![]()
3:35
Recording Modern Metal: Tracking
Instructor: Mike Salow
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Recording
Style: Metal
For this session, I've set the tracks up in the following manner:
Track 1 - Master
Track 2 - Click
Track 3 - Drums - stereo - Intstrument track - superior drummer - panned right +100% and left +100%
Track 4 - Guitar 1 - stereo - audio track...
-
![]()
4:58
Recording Modern Metal: Mixing and Mastering
Instructor: Mike Salow
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Recording
Style: Metal
When it comes to the mixing and mastering process, I really don't do too much but I do have several simple rules to follow.
1. Keep your levels low at first. We want to mix music with low levels because during the mastering process those levels will...
-
![]()
1:27
Composing Modern Metal: Example Song
Instructor: Mike Salow
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Reference
Style: Metal
Hello once again! Please listen closely to the composition and production of this tune.
We will be breaking this series into 3 separate tutorials:
1. Composing (Tutorial 1)2. Recording (Tutorial 2)3. Playing (Tutorial 3)
Please note that in Tutori...
-
![]()
2:01
Composing Modern Metal: Intro
Instructor: Mike Salow
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Reference
Style: Metal
I'm sorry to say it, but we will not be learning any guitar in this video......yet (that comes in Tutorial 3 of this series!)
BUT! We will be learning how I approach composing and recording my ideas for my metal band, "Ideology".
With a few simple ...
-
![]()
2:21
Composing Modern Metal: Composing Part 1
Instructor: Mike Salow
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Reference
Style: Metal
When it comes to composing metal, it can be a struggle but with a few techniques and concepts you can really hammer out a lot of tunes quickly.
First off, consider the following riff styles:
Groove Thrash Chordal
These three styles of riffs can be...
-
![]()
6:23
Composing Modern Metal: Composing Part 2
Instructor: Mike Salow
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Reference
Style: Metal
When it comes to composing metal, it can be a struggle but with a few techniques and concepts you can really hammer out a lot of tunes quickly.
First off, consider the following riff styles:
Groove Thrash Chordal
These three styles of riffs can be...
-
![]()
1:15
The Only Lesson You'll Ever Need (April Fools 2014)
Instructor: Al Joseph
Level: Crazy!
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
*April Fools 2014*
Welcome to April, folks. Just press play and watch the video...and you're there...the peak level of human metalness. If you can play this, you can play anything.
Enjoy,
AJ
-
![]()
1:15
Happy METAL Birthday - Performance
Instructor: Chris Feener
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Looking for that special way to say "Happy Birthday" this year? What better way than with what you do best - sweep arpeggios at 200BPM? We begin with the good ol' fashion "Happy Birthday To You" melody line before ripping into an arpeggio sequence se...
-
![]()
0:24
Happy METAL Birthday - Melody
Instructor: Chris Feener
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
We begin with an "acapella" style guitar section consisting of three-part harmony, with us leading the way with the main melody. Pay attention to rhythm - playing this melody over a thrash beat while trucking along at 200BPM can prove to be a bit of ...
-
![]()
0:42
Happy METAL Birthday - Arpeggio Sequence
Instructor: Chris Feener
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
The second half is where things get a little tricky. We're dealing (almost) exclusively with 5-string arpeggios, so it's basically a matter of mastering our left and right hand technique playing any one of these arpeggios, at the given tempo - then i...
-
![]()
0:45
Happy METAL Birthday - Backing Track
Instructor: Chris Feener
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Have fun with the backing track! Be sure to utilize the IG metronome to practice at slower speeds.
-
![]()
1:32
"Desperate Measures" Solo - Intro & Demonstration
Instructor: Al Joseph
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Hey all! In this tutorial we're going to learn a solo section from my song "Desperate Times". I'm going to play it up to speed, then play it slow, then well break it all down with some in-depth explanation at the end.
Remember to remain as relaxed a...
-
![]()
0:43
"Desperate Measures" Solo - Slow Version
Instructor: Al Joseph
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
In this video, I'm demonstrating the solo at 100bpm, as opposed to the original 130bpm version.
When you're ready, let's get in-depth in the next video and analyze this thing!
-
![]()
5:54
"Desperate Measures" Solo - Let's Analyze
Instructor: Al Joseph
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Okay folks, so here are some things to keep in mind:
1. Chord Progression: Now these are technically slash chords, but I'm going to simplify them to how they're being used in the solo.
DM - Gm - Adim(or F#dim) - Cm - Repeat
DM - Gm - BbM -...
-
![]()
0:35
"Desperate Measures" Solo - Backing Track (130bpm)
Instructor: Al Joseph
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Have fun with the backing track! This one is full speed at 130bpm.
-
![]()
0:46
"Desperate Measures" Solo - Backing Track (100bpm)
Instructor: Al Joseph
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
This is a slowed-down version at 100bpm.
-
![]()
1:43
Riff like Lamb of God - Performance
Instructor: Chris Feener
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Hey fellow IGers! This past month I've been on a bit of a Lamb Of God kick, so I decided to break down and analyze some of the band's thrashy riffing and dark harmonic qualities. The band usually tunes to drop C, but for this tutorial, let's just sti...
-
![]()
0:56
Riff like Lamb of God - Intro
Instructor: Chris Feener
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
For the opening riff, I decided to break out with a classic Lamb Of God-style thrash riff which occurs in two parts. Measures one through eight consisting of mostly low D chugging (with higher single notes on the A string to break up t...
-
![]()
1:12
Riff like Lamb of God - Verse/Chorus
Instructor: Chris Feener
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
So here's our verse riff. As you can tell, it consists of a whole ton of eighth note "chugging". There are many downstrokes, but keep an eye on the accents as they form the over-all shape of the riff.
NOTE: The extended 1-bar verse tag on ...
-
![]()
0:40
Riff like Lamb of God - Bridge
Instructor: Chris Feener
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
And lastly, the segway/bridge riff. Meant as more of a musical-break, the guitars have free reign for craziness; so that's what we're doing. With lots of palm mutes, legato, and sustained chord tones coming at you, it's bound to serve as a decen...
-
![]()
1:43
Riff like Lamb of God - Backing Track (190BPM)
Instructor: Chris Feener
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Here's the backing track at 190bpm. If it's too fast for you, head on over to the next page to access the backing at 120bpm.
-
![]()
2:36
Riff like Lamb of God - Backing Track (120BPM)
Instructor: Chris Feener
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Here's the backing track at 120bpm. Have fun and practice hard!
-
![]()
1:38
Drop Tuned Chord Voicings - Intro
Instructor: Mike Salow
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Chords
Style: Metal
Hello again!
We'll be taking a different route this time around by talking about chord voicings that can be used when in a dropped tuning.
This is a lesson for those metal players who would like to hear more harmonic depth within their riffs OR for...
-
![]()
1:49
Drop Tuned Chord Voicings - Major Triad & add9
Instructor: Mike Salow
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Chords
Style: Metal
The first couple chords will be a major chord and a major add9 chord.
Listen very closley to the explanation in the video and make sure to avoid the high E string while playing the major triad.
However in most situations an add9 will fit fine. I te...
-
![]()
2:12
Drop Tuned Chord Voicings - Major 7 & Extensions
Instructor: Mike Salow
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Chords
Style: Metal
Moving on to adding the major 7 and its extensions.
For the major 7 chord it's as simple as sliding your 3rd finger back one fret from what was played for the major triad.
Adding the 9 is the same as in the previous video and adding the 13 is as si...
-
![]()
3:00
Drop Tuned Chord Voicings - Minor Chords
Instructor: Mike Salow
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Chords
Style: Metal
On to our minor chords!
This includes a minor triad, minor add9 (2 voicings), minor7, minor9, minor11, and minor13 (2 voicings).
The minor triad is a major triad with the pinky moved down one fret to give us a minor 3rd.
The first voicing fo...
-
![]()
2:36
Drop Tuned Chord Voicings - Dominant7 & MinMaj7
Instructor: Mike Salow
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Chords
Style: Metal
These last couple voicings are really just for fun, but I have used them in some of my tunes and I've also heard some band use these or similar voicings.
I may have said "Major Minor 7" in the video but the chord is in fact a Minor Major 7. That jus...
-
![]()
1:27
In The Style Of Metallica - Performance & Tone
Instructor: Chris Feener
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Recording
Style: Metal
Hey everyone! I'm amidst heavy rehearsals for a Metallica tribute gig, so I figured I'd share some insight as to how one would go about achieving Metallica's tone through one's rig, and through one's fingers. I'll focus on rhythm playing for this fir...
-
![]()
0:30
In The Style Of Metallica - Intro
Instructor: Chris Feener
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
I tried to cover the spectrum as much as possible with regards to rhythmic playing style from one record to the next. This first riff is rather ala "Death Magnetic". The main thing to keep in mind when playing this riff, is the picking directions. Th...
-
![]()
0:52
In The Style Of Metallica - Verse
Instructor: Chris Feener
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
So as a sort of throw-back to "Master Of Puppets", I decided to throw in a call-and-answer-type riff, with the first half being mostly down-picked low E notes, and the second half being a power chord passage of some sort. There isn't much to be said ...
-
![]()
0:48
In The Style Of Metallica - Chorus
Instructor: Chris Feener
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
To finish up, I tried to replicate the sort of melodic-meets-chaotic chorus approach Metallica is famous for. Power chords which emphasize tonal shifts with just enough in between to keep the riff interesting.
Have fun with the backing tracks (avail...
-
![]()
1:03
In The Style Of Metallica - Backing Track (200BPM)
Instructor: Chris Feener
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Download backing track at full speed (200BPM).
-
![]()
1:24
In The Style Of Metallica - Backing Track (150BPM)
Instructor: Chris Feener
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Download the backing track at slow speed (150BPM).
-
![]()
3:55
Triads - Creating Lines and Solos
Instructor: Al Joseph
Level: Advanced
Topic: Exercises
Style: Metal
Knowing The Harmony
As a soloist it’s important to be both creative and thorough with your lines. One method I use to accomplish this is to explore the harmony of what I’m soloing over. Every song possesses harmony, whether it’s wr...
-
![]()
0:40
Triads - "Cybertron" Solo Demonstration
Instructor: Al Joseph
Level: Advanced
Topic: Exercises
Style: Metal
Transcribe Solos
It’s important to “transcribe” (learn) solos in order to learn your instrument and develop you vocabulary as a soloist. So I chose a section of a tune I wrote to give you an example of how I use the elements of wha...
-
![]()
2:23
Triads - "Cybertron" Solo Breakdown
Instructor: Al Joseph
Level: Advanced
Topic: Exercises
Style: Metal
In this video, I'll give you somewhat of a step-by-step analysis of the solo. Learn each part slowly until it's very comfortable in your fingers.
Don't forget to make mental notes of how you can apply these ideas into your own solos!
-
![]()
2:31
Triads - Recap
Instructor: Al Joseph
Level: Advanced
Topic: Exercises
Style: Metal
I hope this tutorial was both fun and insightful for you. Remember that this is a process. Please continue to review this lesson and make sure you’ve gathered as much of the main viewpoints as possible.
Also, make sure you check out the backin...
-
![]()
0:38
Triads - "Cybertron" Solo Backing Track
Instructor: Al Joseph
Level: Advanced
Topic: Exercises
Style: Metal
Here's the backing track to "The Shores of Cybertron". Have fun!
For the looped version, continue on to the next page.
-
![]()
2:20
Triads - "Cybertron" Looped Backing Track
Instructor: Al Joseph
Level: Advanced
Topic: Exercises
Style: Metal
Here is the backing track looped. Expand on the original solo and come up with your own ideas. Remember, harmony and rhythm are the key ingredients to creating successful lines and solos!
-
![]()
2:10
Rhythm Techniques - Percussive Muting
Instructor: Travis Montgomery
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
This is a cool percussive riff that closes the song “Fallen Disciples” by Threat Signal. Unlike most riffs, this one focuses on the muting instead of putting the focus the notes. You’ll notice that the actual notes played in this ri...
-
![]()
0:34
Rhythm Techniques - Percussive Muting - Backing
Instructor: Travis Montgomery
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
Have fun with the backing track, practice hard!
-
![]()
2:36
Rhythm Techniques - Polymeters
Instructor: Travis Montgomery
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Metal
This lesson is going to focus on the middle breakdown riff of the song “Comatose” by Threat Signal. This riff is also supposed to be played in a percussive manner, just like the “Fallen Disciples” riff. The percussiveness come...
-
![]()
0:33
Rhythm Techniques - Polymeters - Backing
Instructor: Travis Montgomery
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Metal
Here is the backing track, have fun!
-
![]()
1:27
Mayones/Seymour Duncan Contest Entry - Performance
Instructor: Chris Feener
Level: Advanced
Topic: Reference
Style: Metal
Hey guys! This month's lesson will be focused around analyzing the solo I did for Keith Merrow's solo competition in parternship with Mayones Guitars and Seymour Duncan Pickups. I've had an overwhelming number of requests for a transcription of the s...
-
![]()
0:25
Mayones/Seymour Duncan Contest Entry - Part I
Instructor: Chris Feener
Level: Advanced
Topic: Reference
Style: Metal
Bars 1-9
The first four measures of this solo feature some robotic 16th note tapped runs which implement string-skipping. Here are a few notes with regards to maintaining cleanliness:
1) Keep your right wrist readily available for muting strings af...
-
![]()
0:34
Mayones/Seymour Duncan Contest Entry - Part II
Instructor: Chris Feener
Level: Advanced
Topic: Reference
Style: Metal
Bars 10-21
The notable part in this section begins at bar 16. Actually, it begins with the last two 16th notes in bar 15. Knowing this is imparitive to nailing this lick and achieving the rhythmic approach originally intended. Make use of your right...
-
![]()
0:23
Mayones/Seymour Duncan Contest Entry - Part III
Instructor: Chris Feener
Level: Advanced
Topic: Reference
Style: Metal
Bars 22-29
Much like the last section, understanding the starting point ot the lick beginning in measure 22 is very, very important. If practicing to a quarter beat metronome, understand that the lick actually begins between beat one and two. Other ...
-
![]()
0:32
Mayones/Seymour Duncan Contest Entry - Part IV
Instructor: Chris Feener
Level: Advanced
Topic: Reference
Style: Metal
Bars 30-39
The outro is a bit of a finger-twister. This Japanese-sounding ascend/descend (repeat) run is fairly simplistic with regards to execution, but you'll quickly find that as you increase in BPM, it gets tangly.
Thanks for checking out the s...
-
![]()
1:18
Mayones/Seymour Duncan Contest Entry - Backing Track
Instructor: Chris Feener
Level: Advanced
Topic: Reference
Style: Metal
Thanks for checking out the lesson! Here's the backing track, compliments of Keith Merrow. Be sure to check out Keith's stuff below!
http://www.keithmerrow.com/home.cfm
http://www.youtube.com/user/diobolic5150
-
![]()
2:15
Threat Signal - "Uncensored" Solo
Instructor: Travis Montgomery
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
I was listening to a lot of Born of Osiris at the time of writing the solo and ending lick to “Uncensored”. I went for a really Jason Richardson type sound, but still with my style of writing mixed in.
The solo to this song is spli...
-
![]()
0:55
Threat Signal - "Uncensored" Outro
Instructor: Travis Montgomery
Level: Crazy!
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
I was going for a very chaotic and evil sound for the lick at the end of the song. It may sound kind of random, but it took me a few hours to write! I made sure to go through and pick out every note that sounded just right to me for the sound I was l...
-
![]()
2:06
Chronic Xorn - Mercy Solo
Instructor: Travis Montgomery
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Here's a lick that I used in a guest solo for the band Chronic Xorn. The song is called "Mercy". I was going for a Paul Gilbert-esque string skipping type feel. This lick uses quite a bit of hammer-ons, pull-offs, tapping, and a bit of alternate...
-
![]()
2:05
Threat Signal - "New World Order" Outro
Instructor: Travis Montgomery
Level: Crazy!
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Originally, the ending to this song was just the final riff, but our bassist Pat told me that it needed more shred! I thought it would be cool to do a Jeff Loomis/Jason Becker type arpeggio sequence. This lick requires a lot of stamina to keep it goi...
-
![]()
0:38
Threat Signal - "New World Order" Outro (slow)
Instructor: Travis Montgomery
Level: Crazy!
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
I recommend you practice this solo at a very slow tempo to make sure you have proper control over all the notes and techniques. Take it section by section, don't try to play the whole thing at once!
-
![]()
0:54
Threat Signal - "New World Order" Outro - Backing Track
Instructor: Travis Montgomery
Level: Crazy!
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Here's the backing track guys. Have fun!
-
![]()
2:14
Threat Signal - "Trust In None" Outro
Instructor: Travis Montgomery
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Hey everyone! Today we're going to learn part of the outro to Threat Signal's song "Trust In None" from our self-titled album. It was aiming to create an almost whammy pedal effect, but without the use of a whammy pedal.
This lick was actually writt...
-
![]()
1:07
Threat Signal - "Trust In None" Outro - Backing Track
Instructor: Travis Montgomery
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Here's the backing track folks, have fun and practice hard!
-
![]()
1:48
Threat Signal - "Fallen Disciples" Solo
Instructor: Travis Montgomery
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
“Fallen Disciples” was one of the first songs written on the self-titled Threat Signal album. I was listening to a lot of Nevermore at the time, so the song and solo have quite a big Jeff Loomis sound to them. Overall the solo isn’t...
-
![]()
1:03
Threat Signal - "Fallen Disciples" Solo (Slow)
Instructor: Travis Montgomery
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Here is the slowed down version of the solo. Keep it clean folks!
-
![]()
3:42
Hybrid Metal 101 - Harmonic Minor
Instructor: Chris Feener
Level: Advanced
Topic: Exercises
Style: Metal
Hey guys! This two-part tutorial will be covering a technique that I've been asked to examine quite a few times (especially with my latest Youtube video release of an instrumental I wrote entitled "The Second Surface"). Incorporating hybrid picking i...
-
![]()
2:50
Hybrid Metal 101 - Arpeggios
Instructor: Chris Feener
Level: Advanced
Topic: Exercises
Style: Metal
So let's spread it out and get to the meat and potatoes of what this technique is really about. Hybrid picking is fantastic way of covering wide intervals without making any drastic right hand movements.
EXERCISE 1: This exercise highlights a minor ...
-
![]()
1:26
Melodic Lead over Djent - Backing Track (187bpm)
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Here is the backing tracked looped at 187bpm. Rhythm guitars are included. If this is too fast for you, head on over to the next page to practice with the 90bpm backing track. Have fun!
-
![]()
0:36
7-String Metal Riffs - Performance
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
You're waiting patiently for a parking spot. You see someone backing out. You then turn on your car's blinker to claim the spot. But just as you're about to pull in, an old lady driving a corvette speeds her way into your spot! You then get mad! How ...
-
![]()
0:35
7-String Metal Riffs - Part 1
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Most of the notes in this riff are played without palm muting, however at the end of bars 1 and 3 make sure to mind those palm-muted Low B notes. Make them solid and chunky so you hear a clear differentiation between the normal notes and palm-muted n...
-
![]()
0:35
7-String Metal Riffs - Part 2
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
This section illustrates a cool contrast between a riff being played with tight palm-muted chunk and then the same riff being played with a more open feel. Bars 5 through 8 being the former. Bars 9 through 12 being the latter.
Keep the palm mutes ti...
-
![]()
0:37
7-String Metal Riffs - Backing Track (180bpm)
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Here is the backing track at full speed, 180bpm. If this is too fast for you right now, go to the next page to access the backing track at 110bpm. Have fun!
-
![]()
1:01
7-String Metal Riffs - Backing Track (Slow - 110bpm)
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Here is the backing track slowed down to 110bpm. Practice hard!
-
![]()
1:16
Megadeth Riffage! - Performance
Instructor: Chris Feener
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Hey guys!
For this tutorial, I decided to break down a bunch of Megadeth-esque riffs in an attempt to unlock a few of the many techniques associated with this style of playing. From finger-twisting "spider chords", to thrash beats to straight up low...
-
![]()
0:37
Megadeth Riffage! - Riff 1 (Intro)
Instructor: Chris Feener
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
And we're off! With a blazing thrash beat and tons of intricate pick strokes - reminiscent of something from Megadeth's "Rust In Peace".
The first six bars are very much the same sort of "fast picking call" with a "two-chord answer" throughout, howe...
-
![]()
0:22
Megadeth Riffage! - Riff 2 (Segue)
Instructor: Chris Feener
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Like riff 1, this riff is again, very much centered around the low E string. Serving as a segue between the intro and the first verse, it offers more of an eerie-type "Youthansia" groove - with all the phrygian, harmonic minor and chromatic reference...
-
![]()
0:38
Megadeth Riffage! - Riff 3 (Verse)
Instructor: Chris Feener
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Continuing with a similar vibe as the segway riff, the rhythm is broken up and we add "space" for Dave's snarls.
Note: The last eighth note in bar 18 and the first in 19 are tied, and then followed by a series of low E pick strokes beginning with an...
-
![]()
0:40
Megadeth Riffage! - Riff 4 (Chorus)
Instructor: Chris Feener
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Let's clue up with a "Crypric Writing"-esque chorus. Again, with tons of room for a more melodic chorus as uniformly demonstrated on most Megadeth albums - we see groupings of four eighth notes in the second half off each bar. Play each chord "shot" ...
-
![]()
1:18
Megadeth Riffage! - Backing Track (Full Speed)
Instructor: Chris Feener
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Here is the backing track at 190BPM (Full Speed).
-
![]()
2:00
Megadeth Riffage! - Backing Track (Slow)
Instructor: Chris Feener
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Here is the backing track at 120BPM (Slow).
-
![]()
2:56
The Lens of Clarity - Performance
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Hey everyone!
In this tutorial we'll be learning a portion of one of my songs called "The Lens of Clarity". It's a heavy yet very melodic piece with a bunch of atmosphere/synth stuff. I hope you enjoy it!
This song was originally composed with a mu...
-
![]()
0:50
The Lens of Clarity - Part 1
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Alright, let's get going!
In this first riff we're going to be playing around with the concept of polymeter. Polymeter represents multiple time signatures going on at the same time. In this first section, the drums are outlining a 4/4 groove, while ...
-
![]()
0:42
The Lens of Clarity - Part 3
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Here we have another instance where the palm mutes need to be clearly defined. Makes sure your technique is clean!
At the end of bars 26 and 28 it gets a little tougher as you connect the riff sections. Take those parts slowly and make sure when the...
-
![]()
0:42
The Lens of Clarity - Part 4
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
This is definitely the most challenging part of the song. When I hear it I think it has a big Symphony X vibe.
You'll be using a lot of legato here, including both hammer-ons and pull-offs. It might be tempting to cheat a little bit and get lazy wit...
-
![]()
2:57
The Lens of Clarity - Backing Track (142bpm)
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Here's the backing track at full speed, 142bpm (beats per minute). If this is too fast for you right now, check out the backing track on the next page where you can practice it at 100bpm.
-
![]()
4:12
The Lens of Clarity - Backing Track (Slow - 100bpm)
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Here we have the backing track slowed down to 100bpm. Have fun!
-
![]()
2:03
Djent Series Part 2 - Rhythmic Displacement
Instructor: Chris Feener
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Metal
Alright, so let's get down to business with part II of last month's instalment; "Djent Series"!
An important element of djent metal is how the guitars and drums converse to create multiple meters, hence, "polymeter". There are tons of ways to implem...
-
![]()
1:55
Djent Series Part 2 - 16th Note Offset
Instructor: Chris Feener
Level: Advanced
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Metal
Let's take this whole rhythmic concept into awkward territory by playing a riff which holds a pulse of 17/16.
So let's analyze what is happening...
We'll be playing a meter of 17/16 over four measures of 4/4.
Due to the seventeen 16th notes, we'...
-
![]()
1:43
Djent Series Part 2 - Creating Layers
Instructor: Chris Feener
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Metal
So, let's get back to some of the fundamentals of djent.
"Layering" is a very key aspect in this new wave of metal. With the heavy syncopation happening between bass, guitar and drums, layers offer the melodic sensibilities which grant environment a...
-
![]()
0:50
Djent Series Part 2 - Rhythmic Displacement Backing Track
Instructor: Chris Feener
Level: Advanced
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Metal
Check out the backing track for "Rhythmic Displacement"
The tempos are 80BPM - and then up to 120BPM.
-
![]()
0:51
Djent Series - Part 2 - 16th Note Offset Backing Track
Instructor: Chris Feener
Level: Advanced
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Metal
Check out the backing track for "16th Note Offset"
The tempos are 80BPM - and then up to 120BPM.
-
![]()
0:53
Djent Series - Part 2 - Creating Layers Backing Track
Instructor: Chris Feener
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Metal
Check out the backing track for "Creating Layers"
The tempos are 80BPM - and then up to 120BPM. The rhythm track is included so you can experiment with those layers!
-
![]()
0:32
Djent Series Part 1 - Introduction
Instructor: Chris Feener
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Hey guys,
This is part one in an upcoming series of lessons I'll be doing on the rhythmic concept of "djent". Derrived from a word "invented" by members of Meshuggah, and popularized by Periphery song-writer Misha Mansoor, the term has become synony...
-
![]()
0:49
Djent Series Part 1 - Guitar Tone
Instructor: Chris Feener
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Recording
Style: Metal
For the demonstrations, I'll be using a Fractal Audio Systems "Axe-Fx Ultra". The Axe-Fx is one of the most common units in modern metal, not only for effects, but for literally building an entire guitar sound from scratch. Line 6 products come very ...
-
![]()
2:22
Djent Series Part 1 - Technique
Instructor: Chris Feener
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
Let's examine some beneficial techniques involved in this distinct style of rhythm playing.
Right Hand
The right hand is enormously important in acquiring the percussiveness and cleanliness we'll need to execute the following riffs. Make sure the p...
-
![]()
3:44
Djent Series Part 1 - "Even-Odd" Pulses
Instructor: Chris Feener
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
So let's start out with the basic concept of polymeters. I've addressed this concept in a previous tutorial regarding creating pulses in your lead playing, so let's apply that to riffing, and learn how we can use these odd rhythmic pulses to create s...
-
![]()
2:25
Djent Series Part 1 - The Pattern Approach
Instructor: Chris Feener
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Here's another common technique, alike the "Even-Odd" rhythm approach, we'll be playing meters within meters, except this time, meters within meters within meters. Confused yet? Don't be.
Here's what's happening:
The pattern is One... One-Two... On...
-
![]()
0:30
Djent Series Part 1 - Backing Track - Pulse of 5
Instructor: Chris Feener
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Check out this drum backing track and play along to the exercises under "Even-Odd", exercise: "Pulse of 5".
The drum track plays first at 150BPM, and then at 200BPM.
-
![]()
0:32
Djent Series Part 1 - Backing Track - Pulse of 7
Instructor: Chris Feener
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Check out this drum backing track and play along to the exercises under "Even-Odd", exercise: "Pulse of 7".
The drum track plays first at 150BPM, and then at 200BPM.
-
![]()
0:43
Djent Series Part 1 - Backing Track - Pulse of 9
Instructor: Chris Feener
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Check out this drum backing track and play along to the exercises under "Even-Odd", exercise: "Pulse of 9".
The drum track plays first at 150BPM, then at 150BPM with added groupings for the riff demonstration, and then again for the r...
-
![]()
0:21
Djent Series Part 1 - Backing Track - Pattern Approach
Instructor: Chris Feener
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Check out this drum backing track and play along to the exercise: "Pattern Approach".
The drum track plays at 200BPM.
-
![]()
0:35
7-String Essentials - Etude
Instructor: Chris Feener
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
For this tutorial I wanted to focus on some 7-string goodness! For those of you who may be just getting used to the extra low B string, or for those who've never really examined it for what it is, theoretically, hopefully you can take something from ...
-
![]()
0:35
7-String Essentials - Etude Backing Track
Instructor: Chris Feener
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Download the backing track and have fun! \m/
-
![]()
1:09
Tapped Arpeggios - Etude in F Major Backing Track (Fast)
Instructor: Chris Feener
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
Download the Etude in F Major Backing Track (Fast) at 150BPM
-
![]()
1:34
Tapped Arpeggios - Etude in F Major Backing Track (Slow)
Instructor: Chris Feener
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
Download the Etude in F Major Backing Track (Slow) at 105BPM
-
![]()
1:14
Riff Like Threat Signal - Performance
Instructor: Chris Feener
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Hey guys! This month, due to being heavily involved in the writing process of the new Threat Signal record, I decided to break down the mechanics of this interesting rhythm-style, in hopes that you can incorporate it into your own compositions. We'll...
-
![]()
0:38
Riff Like Threat Signal - Intro & Verse
Instructor: Chris Feener
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Intro:
Make the distinction between rests and longer note durations, for instance; the Bb note on the third fret in bar 1 is a held 8th beat, wheras the two 16ths that follow are short 16ths followed by a rest.
Palm muting is imparitive and it's im...
-
![]()
0:50
Riff Like Threat Signal - Pre-Chorus & Chorus
Instructor: Chris Feener
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Pre-Chorus
The pre-chorus riff is very Vigilance-esque. Pay close attention to how the riff "resets" near the end of bar 7. The note sequence will be much easier to grasp by not biting off more than you can chew, or in other words, memorize the patt...
-
![]()
0:26
Riff Like Threat Signal - Post-Chorus
Instructor: Chris Feener
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Post-Chorus
This riff serves as the common "heavy riff after the chorus" segment which usually ties the chorus back to a verse.
Rhythmically, it's a bit of a finger-twister. Each bar starts the same, and ends a little differently. Please recognize ...
-
![]()
1:14
Riff Like Threat Signal - Backing Track (Full Tempo)
Instructor: Chris Feener
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Download the backing track at Full Tempo (122BPM)
-
![]()
1:46
Riff Like Threat Signal - Backing Track (Reduced Tempo)
Instructor: Chris Feener
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Download the backing track at a Reduced Tempo (85BPM)
-
![]()
1:40
Code Seven - Performance
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Hey everyone, and welcome to this song tutorial!
This is a piece taken from a pretty heavy tune I wrote a while back. You can hear the full version on my profile page if you'd like. Make sure you turn your amp up to 11 for this one! And do not be al...
-
![]()
0:33
Code Seven - Part 1
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
This first riff is going to be somewhat floating over the 4/4 time signature. I like incorporating riffs over 4/4 drum grooves that don't always perfectly line up within the 4/4 structure. For example, bar 4 is in 4/4 time, however depending on how y...
-
![]()
0:33
Code Seven - Part 2
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
This part is an extension of Part 1, except it's a lot more aggressive with the palm muting and we're also now perfectly aligned with the drums in 4/4 time.
Make sure your palm muting spans across all three bottom strings to really get that crunch s...
-
![]()
1:04
Code Seven - Part 3
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
This part will definitely test your picking hand's stamina. There is a massive amount of "galloping triplets" on the sixth string. You'll need to concentrate on making sure everything stays in perfect sync with both hands. Practice this part very slo...
-
![]()
1:04
Code Seven - Part 4
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
This part has a cool call and answer section. In bars 29-30, we have a heavy rhythm creating the "call", then in bars 31-32 we have the guitar's melody "answering the call". Then the same thing happens in bars 33-36.
"Call and answers" are very fun ...
-
![]()
1:04
Code Seven - Part 5
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
The last part is the easiest section of the piece, involving some solid strumming of power chords. Again, make sure the rests are dead silent. For this riff in particular, it's very important that the riff breathes between the chords to give it that ...
-
![]()
1:39
Code Seven - Backing Track (Full Tempo - 192bpm)
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Here is the backing track at full tempo, 192bpm. If this is too fast for you right now, go to the next page to access the backing track at 150bpm.
-
![]()
2:07
Code Seven - Backing Track (Slow Tempo - 150bpm)
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Here is the backing track slowed down to 150bpm. Practice hard and have fun!
-
![]()
1:40
In the Style of John Petrucci - Performance
Instructor: Chris Feener
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Hey guys, I've been on a classic John Petrucci kick lately so I decided to piece together a solo which captures the essence of Mr. Petrucci as best as possible.
The solo is comprised of two sections, the first covering his blues-esque Steve Morse in...
-
![]()
2:11
In the Style of John Petrucci - Part 1
Instructor: Chris Feener
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
This first 16 bars of the solo move in and out of the blues scale; from a natural Bm scale to F# dorian. Based mostly around simple pentatonic positions and "box" scales, it portrays Petrucci's ability to take elements of blues/classic rock and combi...
-
![]()
1:57
In the Style of John Petrucci - Part 2
Instructor: Chris Feener
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
The second half of the solo, as mentioned in the introductory video, contains more linear and minor sounding licks. It opens with some tricky scale fragments that should be treated "loosely" as opposed to being locked in completely to the 16th note n...
-
![]()
0:44
In the Style of John Petrucci - Backing Track
Instructor: Chris Feener
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Here is the backing track at full tempo. If you need to start slower, go to the next page to practice along with the 150bpm version.
Enjoy and practice hard!
-
![]()
0:56
In the Style of John Petrucci - Backing Track (Slow)
Instructor: Chris Feener
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Here is the backing track slowed down to 150bpm. It includes rhythm guitars along with a metronome.
Have fun!
-
![]()
1:59
In The Style of Scar Symmetry (Per Nilsson) - Solo
Instructor: Chris Feener
Level: Crazy!
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Hey guys! This lesson is going to be devoted to one of my favorite lead players in metal today - Per Nilsson of Scar Symmetry. After getting quite a few requests to break down some of Per's licks, I decided to piece together a solo "in the s...
-
![]()
0:58
In The Style of Scar Symmetry (Per Nilsson) - Part 1
Instructor: Chris Feener
Level: Crazy!
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Part 1: Sweep Arpeggio Sequences
The solo begins with a sequence of major arpeggios with the exception of the opening (minor). The key modulations are rather random, but warrant a very classical sounding movement that is very prodominant in many of ...
-
![]()
1:03
In The Style of Scar Symmetry (Per Nilsson) - Part 2
Instructor: Chris Feener
Level: Crazy!
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
PART 2: Harmonic Minor Madness
Bars 5-12This section contains some signature Per-licks, from the pedal-tone lick in bar 6 to the descending harmonic minor lick starting in bar 7. The only key to mastering these, specifically, are practice and perser...
-
![]()
0:42
In The Style of Scar Symmetry (Per Nilsson) - Part 3
Instructor: Chris Feener
Level: Crazy!
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
PART 3: A Play on Rhythm
Bars 13-16
At 150BPM, some of the rhythms found within bars 13-14 may cause some frustration. Be sure to play these slow and REALLY examine where the beats are, the durations (especially dotted 8ths) and be sure not to rush...
-
![]()
1:18
In The Style of Scar Symmetry (Per Nilsson) - Part 4
Instructor: Chris Feener
Level: Crazy!
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
PART 4: Legato Arpeggio SequencesBars 17-22This section begins melodically, then climbs a 2 note per string pattern beginning on an up-stroke. This IS subjective as I know a lot of players who would attack this lick starting with a down-stroke instea...
-
![]()
0:46
In The Style of Scar Symmetry (Per Nilsson) - Backing
Instructor: Chris Feener
Level: Crazy!
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Here's the backing track - be sure to practice each part at a decreased speed before attempting to shred all over it! Enjoy!
-
![]()
0:31
Metal Riff Montage - Introduction
Instructor: Chris Feener
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Metal
In my last tutorial, I spent a fair bit of time explaining and breaking down the factors that make up polymeters. In essence, we scratched the surface of the concept. This month, I chose to turn up the heavy knob just a little, and get your guys' bra...
-
![]()
0:17
Metal Riff Montage - Style of Meshuggah
Instructor: Chris Feener
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Metal
This first riff is a Meshuggah-esque riff in the sense that we're playing a measure of 13/16 under a basic drum groove of 4/4. After three whole bars, the meter still has not reset, so you'll have to pay close attention to the transition from bar 3 b...
-
![]()
0:26
Metal Riff Montage - Dotted Eighth Feel
Instructor: Chris Feener
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Metal
This riff consists of almost solely dotted eighth beats, with the exception of one short phrase. The purpose for this riff is to demonstrate what dotted eighth beats sound like being carried from one bar to the next. A very common rhythm form in most...
-
![]()
0:23
Metal Riff Montage - Style of Lamb of God
Instructor: Chris Feener
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Metal
This riff, although not polymetric in nature, is a very common pattern in metal. Lamb of God and Meshuggah should very well come to mind when playing some of these 32nd beat gallops.We learn early on that alternate picking usually entails a dow...
-
![]()
1:17
Metal Riff Montage - Style of Meshuggah Backing Track
Instructor: Chris Feener
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Metal
Here's the backing track for "In the Style of Meshuggah". It's played at 120BPM at full-speed, but remember to check out the nifty built-in metronome and build gradually should you be having issues!
-
![]()
2:07
Metal Riff Montage - Dotted Eighth Feel Backing Track
Instructor: Chris Feener
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Metal
Here's the backing track for "Dotted Eighth Feel". It's played at 120BPM at full-speed, but remember to check out the nifty built-in metronome and build gradually should you be having issues!
-
![]()
2:14
Metal Riff Montage - Style of Lamb of God Backing Track
Instructor: Chris Feener
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Metal
Here's the backing track for "In the Style of Lamb of God". It's played at 120BPM at full-speed, but remember to check out the nifty built-in metronome and build gradually should you be having issues!
-
![]()
1:32
Mind Melt - Performance
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Hello everyone!
Welcome to this song tutorial called "Mind Melt". This is a short clip taken from a song I'm currently writing. I hope you enjoy it!
We're going to be learning some significantly intense rhythm playing in this tutorial. Make sure yo...
-
![]()
2:19
Mind Melt - Exercise 1
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
In Exercise 1, we're mainly going to be dealing with eighth notes here with the exception of bar 8.
In all of these exercises, be very mindful of all the notes that require palm muting. Anytime you see the "P.M." markings, be sure to palm mute the a...
-
![]()
1:37
Mind Melt - Exercise 2
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
This particular riff is played for a large portion of the song. What I really like about it is how it's played identically over three sections, yet each section sounds unique. This is in large part due to the other instruments, especially the variate...
-
![]()
1:42
Mind Melt - Exercise 3
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
In this riff, we're going to be all over the place on the 6th string, so make sure your fret-hand is loose and limber! Use whatever fingering feels best for you, but of course feel free to use my fingering in the video as an example.
Just like we sa...
-
![]()
1:27
Mind Melt - Exercise 4
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
To close out the piece, we're going to break away from the intense rhythm playing on the lower strings and play something a bit more melodic.
Make sure all your pull-offs on the G string sound clean and equal in volume to the other notes. And don't ...
-
![]()
1:32
Mind Melt - Backing Track 186 bpm
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Here is the backing track at 186 bpm. Background guitars are included. Don't forget to stretch and warm up!
If this tempo is too fast for you, go ahead and move on to the next page for the 150 bpm backing track.
-
![]()
1:53
Mind Melt - Slow Backing Track 150bpm
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Here is the backing track at 150 bpm. Background guitars are not included in this one.
Have fun and practice hard!
-
![]()
0:47
Inside/Outside Picking Etude - Full Video
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
Welcome!
In this tutorial, we'll be learning a short etude taken from a song I wrote. The purpose of this etude is to practice our inside picking along with our outside picking. If you aren't sure what those picking types are, check out this tutoria...
-
![]()
2:11
Inside/Outside Picking Etude - Breakdown
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
Firstly, let's make sure we're aware of the type of rhythmic notes we're playing. If you look at the tab/notation below, you'll see that there are six notes for every beat. So we'll be playing sixteenth-note triplets.
While you learn this, you'll wa...
-
![]()
1:35
Inside/Outside Picking Etude - Backing
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
Now it's time for the backing track! You'll hear the harmony and rhythm guitars playing along with you. If this tempo is a little too fast for you, go ahead and go on to the next page for the slower backing track.
-
![]()
2:09
Inside/Outside Picking Etude - Backing (Slow)
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
This backing track is a little slower than the original tempo. Have fun and practice hard!
-
![]()
0:52
Destroy the Alarm Clock - Performance
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
I don't know about you, but I dislike it very much when my alarm clock goes off. Stop beeping at me and let me sleep! :) So, here's a short piece for all of you alarm clock haters. The imagery I see in this piece basically has me battling it out with...
-
![]()
1:30
Destroy the Alarm Clock - Exercise 1
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Let's take a look at the first beat in each of the bars below. See the triplet note grouping? Those are sixteenth note triplets, which basically have a span of six notes per beat. Make sure you palm mute that grouping, then immediately after play a q...
-
![]()
1:46
Destroy the Alarm Clock - Exercise 2
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
The first thing to point out about this riff is that the first two beats of each bar are very similar to what we saw in Exercise 1. So be sure to keep that part the same.
The main things new in this riff are the quick legato runs that begin on the s...
-
![]()
0:50
Destroy the Alarm Clock - Backing Track: 140 bpm
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Here we have the backing track at 140 bpm (beats per minute). If this is a little too fast for you, feel free to go to the next page to practice at 105 bpm.
As always, if you ever make a recording of yourself playing along to the backing, be sure to...
-
![]()
1:07
Destroy the Alarm Clock - Backing Track: 105 bpm
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Here we have the backing track at 105 bpm.
As always, if you ever make a recording of yourself playing along to the backing, be sure to post it in the forum!
-
![]()
2:13
Palm Mute Crunching - Introduction
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Beginner
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
Hi everyone!
In this tutorial, we'll be taking a brief look at developing a solid "crunch" sound with our palm muting. This is especially significant in regards to hard rock and metal riffing.
Palm muting involves putting the side of your picking h...
-
![]()
0:59
Palm Mute Crunching - Exercise
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
Now let's go ahead and apply what we learned in the last lesson. In the video above, you'll see me play the exercise at 126 bpm (beats per minute) and also at 156 bpm.
This exercise is primarily going to revolve around an E power chord. As far as th...
-
![]()
2:05
Palm Mute Crunching - Backing Track 126 bpm
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
Have fun with the backing track! This particular backing is at 126 bpm. If you'd rather play it at a faster speed, feel free to go to the next page to play it at 156 bpm.
If you ever make a recording of yourself playing along to the backing, be sure...
-
![]()
1:41
Palm Mute Crunching - Backing Track 156 bpm
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
Have fun with the backing track! This particular backing is at 156 bpm. If you'd rather play it at a slower speed, feel free to go to the previous page to play it at 126 bpm.
If you ever make a recording of yourself playing along to the backing, be ...
-
![]()
1:30
Spiral - Performance
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Welcome everyone!
In this tutorial, we're going to learn a song of mine called "Spiral". It has a modern metal feel with a few Eastern themes thrown in there.
Please note that this song is in Drop D tuning. If you aren't exactly sure what that is, ...
-
![]()
1:18
Spiral - Exercise 1
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
As you probably noticed from watching the main video, there is going to be a lot of fast picking involved with the rhythm playing. When you look at the tablature throughout the song, you'll be noticing a lot of sixteenth notes mixed with eighth notes...
-
![]()
1:14
Spiral - Exercise 2
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
In Exercise 2, we have the part of the song where the full band kicks in gear. The actual riff is similar to that of Exercise 1, but we'll be adding a couple new ideas.
Pay attention to the palm-mute markings (indicated as "P.M.") in the tablature. ...
-
![]()
1:46
Spiral - Exercise 3
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Exercise 3 represents the "Symphony X" part of the song. I like playing riffs that somewhat tease the listener, letting them know that there's an even bigger riff coming their way next. So I like to think of this part of the song as a build-up to Exe...
-
![]()
1:53
Spiral - Exercise 4
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
And now, we have the big riff that we were building up to in Exercise 3. Make sure you headbang when you play this one. It will make you play better!...
...Okay maybe not. :)
Similar to Exercise 3, the effectiveness of this riff relies heavily on t...
-
![]()
1:12
Spiral - Exercise 5
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
In this last exercise, we're going to be adding in a hint of tapping into our rhythm playing.
First off, make sure you use alternate picking exclusively in this riff. The only time you won't be using it is when you'll be tapping.
In bars 28 and 29,...
-
![]()
1:54
Spiral - Backing Track
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Here is the full tempo backing track at 170 bpm.
If you ever record yourself playing along to the backing, be sure to post it in the forum so we can hear your skills!
-
![]()
2:41
Spiral - Backing Track (slow)
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Here is the slow tempo backing track at 120 bpm.
If you ever record yourself playing along to the backing, be sure to post it in the forum so we can hear your skills!
-
![]()
1:52
TapOut - Full Video
Instructor: Richard Lundmark
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Welcome to this riffage tutorial based on a tune of mine called "TapOut". You guessed it, I'm a UFC fan! :)
This riff is pretty much what you might label "Swedish Metal", in which I have tried to capture some of the essence of my Swedish metal herit...
-
![]()
1:06
TapOut - Breakdown 1
Instructor: Richard Lundmark
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
In this first breakdown, we'll be looking at the first riff. This riff is made up of a sliding 3-string chord (an augmented power chord, or "half-diminished power chord" or "b5 power chord" as I believe you call it in the US), and some heavy palm-mut...
-
![]()
0:44
TapOut - Breakdown 2
Instructor: Richard Lundmark
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
This part contains a continuous 16-note riff, with some off-beat accents occurring thanks to the placement of the un-muted notes in relation to the muted low C. This type of riffing can get really mesmerizing, so please use this riff as fuel for crea...
-
![]()
1:27
TapOut - Breakdown 3
Instructor: Richard Lundmark
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
In this part, I'm using a rather un-orthodox harmonic technique. The actual physics of this technique is something I will include in my upcoming tutorial on harmonics, which will cover just about every possible harmonic technique out there. For now, ...
-
![]()
1:52
TapOut - Backing Track
Instructor: Richard Lundmark
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Finally, here's a backing track for you to play around with.
I have left one of the rhythm guitars in there (panned hard left) so you can get a sense of the harmonies when practicing to it.
Get riffing, and see you in my next tutorial!
-
![]()
3:27
Sweep Picking - Introduction
Instructor: Richard Lundmark
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
Holiday greetings and salutations guitar slingers!
X-mas is drawing near, and what says happy holidays better than a sweeping-frenzy? In this technique/song tutorial, we will take a look at an excerpt from the song Tribute off my Fretdance(2003) alb...
-
![]()
4:29
Sweep Picking - Exercise 1
Instructor: Richard Lundmark
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
Alright then!
In this first exercise, we will look at an exercise designed to help you focus on right/left hand synchronization. By keeping the pattern pretty basic, with no finger-rolls (more on that in Exercise 2), you will be able to focus on lif...
-
![]()
3:58
Sweep Picking - Exercise 2
Instructor: Richard Lundmark
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
Ok then, in this exercise we will look at another crucial aspect of sweeping, the finger roll. And no, this is not an appetizer you might find on Hannibal the Cannibal's dinner table. Whenever you play arpeggios based on the A-form, or E-form barre-c...
-
![]()
4:21
Sweep Picking - Exercise 3
Instructor: Richard Lundmark
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
In this section, we will look at an arpeggio exercise that covers some wide interval stretches. This is in order to prepare you for some of the bigger fingerings occurring later on in this tutorial. This is also an exercise designed to introduce you ...
-
![]()
2:09
Tribute Excerpt - Introduction
Instructor: Richard Lundmark
Level: Crazy!
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
This part serves as an introduction to the sweeping etude, so just watch it as a warm-up for the next part.
-
![]()
1:53
Tribute Excerpt - Full Video
Instructor: Richard Lundmark
Level: Crazy!
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
Alright! Here it is, the big chunk of all-you-can-eat sweep-o-rama!
This video is just the actual performance, so once you watch this through and get a feel for the piece, move on to the breakdown parts.
You can also listen to the full track if you...
-
![]()
4:41
Tribute Excerpt - Breakdown 1
Instructor: Richard Lundmark
Level: Crazy!
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
First breakdown section! All explanations will be found in the video. Please note that I wont go over every single bar in this piece, since much of it is just repetition, or maybe the exact same sweep technique, just a different chord. Rather I will ...
-
![]()
3:34
Tribute Excerpt - Breakdown 2
Instructor: Richard Lundmark
Level: Crazy!
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
Here is the second breakdown section!
-
![]()
3:59
Tribute Excerpt - Breakdown 3
Instructor: Richard Lundmark
Level: Crazy!
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
Here is the third breakdown section!
-
![]()
3:54
Tribute Excerpt - Breakdown 4
Instructor: Richard Lundmark
Level: Crazy!
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
Here is the fourth breakdown section. Get to work! =)
-
![]()
5:11
Tribute Excerpt - Breakdown 5
Instructor: Richard Lundmark
Level: Crazy!
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
Here is the fifth breakdown section!
-
![]()
5:29
Tribute Excerpt - Breakdown 6
Instructor: Richard Lundmark
Level: Crazy!
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
The sixth and final breakdown, and then you're done! Now, all you need to do is try these sweeps out in your own playing and improvisation! Remember, as always, learning something is just step 1. Application and implementing everything you learn in r...
-
![]()
3:07
Tribute Excerpt - Backing Track: 90bpm
Instructor: Richard Lundmark
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
Here is the backing track for your practicing pleasure. This one is at 90bpm, so slightly above half-tempo. The reason for not putting it up in half tempo is that some of the note-values such as quintuplets would be difficult to get a feel for at suc...
-
![]()
1:48
Tribute Excerpt - Backing Track: 155bpm
Instructor: Richard Lundmark
Level: Crazy!
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
And here we have the same thing in 155bpm, the original tempo. Get to work, and then listen to (or before, if you like) the original tune after that to hear it in context.
-
![]()
4:34
Tribute - Full Original Track
Instructor: Richard Lundmark
Level: Crazy!
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
And here is the full original track from the FretDance(2003) album. Apart from the sweep etude part, it also has some interesting harmonic extravaganza that I might cover in an upcoming tutorial on harmonics. So stay tuned for that!
-
![]()
1:41
Premonition - Full Video
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Welcome everyone!
In this tutorial, we'll be learning a piece I wrote called "Premonition". It has a bit of a Symphony X vibe to it and has a good mix of melodic and heavy riffs. I hope you enjoy it!
Once you've watched the video above, head on ove...
-
![]()
1:41
Premonition - Exercise 1
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
In this lesson, we'll be learning the riff that represents the main theme of the song.
All notes in this section will be played as sextuplets (16th note triplets). If you look at each beat in a given measure, you'll see that there are six notes grou...
-
![]()
1:47
Premonition - Exercise 2
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
In Exercise 2, we'll begin the prelude to the heavy middle section. When you listen to the full video with the band, you can hear how I'm playing some accented notes along with the drums between rests. This is a very common yet effective technique wi...
-
![]()
2:03
Premonition - Exercise 3
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
And now we come to the heavy riff we referred to in the last lesson. This is where the drums go full throttle and you begin headbanging in headbanging heaven.*
*Headbanging optional, but strongly encouraged.
The chords in this riff are similar to t...
-
![]()
2:01
Premonition - Exercise 4
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
In this riff, we're transitioning from the darker sound to a more melodic sound.
In bars 17 and 18, we'll be playing 32nd notes exclusively. Pay very close attention to the palm muting. The only notes you won't be palm muting are the ones where you'...
-
![]()
2:01
Premonition - Backing Track
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Have fun with the backing track! Be sure to stretch and warm up before you play.
As always, if you ever record yourself playing along with the backing, be sure to post it in the forum so we can hear your skills.
See you next time!
-
![]()
1:42
Eluding the Mastermind - Performance
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Welcome everyone!
In this song tutorial, we'll be learning a modern metal piece entitled "Eluding the Mastermind". Please note that this song is in Drop D tuning. If you aren't exactly sure what that is, click here.
Once you've finished checking ou...
-
![]()
2:34
Eluding the Mastermind - Exercise 1
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
The intro riff to this song is mainly comprised of sixteenth notes. Most of the notes will be palm muted as well. However, study the tablature closely to catch which notes aren't supposed to be palm muted.
When you look at the tab, you'll notice a f...
-
![]()
2:10
Eluding the Mastermind - Exercise 2
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Now let's start getting more melodic! I especially like this riff as it's pretty fun to play. It may be a bit challenging at first though as there are many hand movements shifting back and forth on the fretboard.
The trickiest part here may be the f...
-
![]()
2:59
Eluding the Mastermind - Exercise 3
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Now we've come to the very fast and heavy rhythm section. Make sure you are especially warmed and stretched before playing this part! There is a lot of strain on your picking hand here, so be sure to gradually increase your speed as you practice. Don...
-
![]()
1:12
Eluding the Mastermind - Exercise 4
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
We'll begin this section by strumming back and forth between two particular chords: Am(without the 5th) and A#(without the 5th). You'll also see a lot of 16th note rests between the strumming patterns. When you encounter these rests, make sure the pa...
-
![]()
1:41
Eluding the Mastermind - Backing Track
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Have fun with the backing track! Please note that there are two counts with the high hats before the guitar is supposed to start. You can hear this in action in the full video.
If you ever make a recording of yourself playing along, be sure to post ...
-
![]()
1:32
Turbulence - Full Video
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Welcome!
In this tutorial, we'll be learning a metal piece entitled "Turbulence". Please note that this song is in Drop D tuning. If you aren't exactly sure what that is, click here.
Once you've viewed the video above, head on over to the next page...
-
![]()
1:30
Turbulence - Exercise 1
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
We will be starting out the song in a 5/8 time signature. In other words, there will be a span of 5 eighth notes in each measure.
The first riff is a bit Meshuggah-esque. Meshuggah often uses heavy palm muting riffs synced with drum patterns. You'll...
-
![]()
1:20
Turbulence - Exercise 2
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
This part is a bit tricky as far as rhythm goes. As much as you can, really try to pay attention to what the different instruments are playing during this part in the Full Video. Basically, there are two time signatures occurring at the same time, wh...
-
![]()
2:38
Turbulence - Exercise 3
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
In the previous lesson, we were playing a 5/8 riff while the drums played a 4/4 groove underneath. In this lesson however, we'll begin playing the guitar in 4/4.
We'll be playing the same rhythmic pattern in this entire lesson, but we'll also be add...
-
![]()
3:17
Turbulence - Exercise 4
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
This riff has a really nice groove with the drums. As far as your picking, it will pretty much stay the same throughout this section. When you look at the tab, you'll see that most of the notes are in groupings of 2. For each grouping, you'll simply ...
-
![]()
1:34
Turbulence - Backing Track
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Have fun with the backing track!
As always, if you ever record yourself playing along, be sure to post it in the forum so we can all hear your skills!
-
![]()
1:22
Time Constraint - Full Video
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Welcome folks!
In this tutorial, we're going to focus on metal rhythm playing as we learn a song called "Time Constraint".
Once you've watched the video above, head on over to the next page for Exercise 1. Have fun!
-
![]()
2:10
Time Constraint - Exercise 1
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
To start the piece, we have an interesting rhythmic intro. The idea was to play something simple that sounded somewhat like a beeping alarm clock.
Throughout this piece, you'll notice many "X" symbols on the strings. That symbol represents a dead no...
-
![]()
1:45
Time Constraint - Exercise 2
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
In Exercise 2, we'll start out by playing an F octave chord on the A and G strings. Notice the "X" symbol on the D string? That simply means you'll be muting the D string while you strum the octave chords. Make sure your strumming stays relaxed as y...
-
![]()
1:16
Time Constraint - Exercise 3
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
In this exercise, we have a fast, eastern sounding legato lick.
Accuracy is key here, so make sure you practice this part note by note. If you play it fast and some notes don't sound properly, slow it down. Only increase your speed as you gain more ...
-
![]()
1:48
Time Constraint - Exercise 4
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
This last part has a bit of a funky feel to it. In bars 24 through 27, you'll be playing an octave riff that somewhat plays off of the drum beat. Be mindul of the many 8th note rests as well. Make sure those rests are super clean so your rhythm sound...
-
![]()
1:22
Time Constraint - Backing Track
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Ready to play along to the backing track? Excellent. Be sure to warm up and stretch before you get started.
If you ever record yourself playing along to the track, be sure to post it in the forums so we can all hear your skills!
-
![]()
2:05
Building Speed and Stamina - "Repetition" Solo
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
In our 3rd "Speed and Stamina" exercise, we'll be looking at an excerpt from an old song I wrote called "Repetition". This short solo will definitely test your endurance for both hands.
Before you begin, you need to do something important if you hav...
-
![]()
0:35
Building Speed and Stamina - "Repetition" Backing
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
Wow! If you're ready for the backing track, then you've done a great job practicing!
If you ever record yourself playing along, be sure to post it in the forums so we can all hear your mad shredding skills!
-
![]()
1:57
Metal Madness - Full Video
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Welcome everyone!
In this song tutorial, we're going to learn some intense metal riffs and ideas. Please note that this song is in Drop D tuning. If you aren't exactly sure what that is, go ahead and click here.
Once you've checked out the video ab...
-
![]()
0:48
Metal Madness - Exercise 1
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
This first riff has somewhat of a Pantera influence. Dimebag Darrell had a knack for playing chunky sounding riffs with a good amount of dissonance.
We have a lot of Drop D power chords played throughout this riff. Let's examine some of the other th...
-
![]()
1:11
Metal Madness - Exercise 2
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
In bars 9 through 12 of Exercise 2, we have a build-up where just the guitar and bass are prompting the drums to start playing so to speak. The most important part of this section is the use of rests. Make sure the rests are extremely tight sounding,...
-
![]()
0:42
Metal Madness - Exercise 3
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
In Exercise 3, we have some fun 3-string sweep arpeggios. We'll be playing them as 16th notes. And make sure you follow the pick strokes very closely in the tab below. Since we're sweeping, don't individualize each pick stroke, make sure your hand gl...
-
![]()
0:57
Metal Madness - Exercise 4
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
In Exercise 4, we'll be playing a neat little trick using open strings and legato.
The whole pattern of this riff will be a grouping of 3 notes. First you'll play the open B string, then you'll hammer-on a B string note, then you'll hammer-on "from ...
-
![]()
0:51
Metal Madness - Exercise 5
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
This exercise is probably the most straightforward part of the song. We're basically just going to be doing a palm muted build on the 6th string. There are a select few non-palm muted notes though, so make sure you examine the tab closely.
And lastl...
-
![]()
1:07
Metal Madness - Exercise 6
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
This last exercise involves some intense speed picking and is a bit tricky.
On the 2nd beat of each bar, do you see how we'll be playing 16th note triplets? Make sure you keep alternate picking throughout.
Now, look at the very first note of the 3r...
-
![]()
1:41
Metal Madness - Backing Track
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Have those riffs nailed? Great job! Make sure you don't headbang too hard when you play them though. :)
If you ever make a recording of yourself playing along to the backing track, be sure to post it in the forum!
-
![]()
0:46
Half Picking: Metal Riff
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
To close out the tutorial, we'll apply the half picking technique to a fun metal riff. Some of the patterns are similar to the patterns we played in the etude, but there are some new shapes as well. We'll also be dipping into the diminished scale.
O...
-
![]()
0:35
Time Signatures: 5/4 - Example 2 (Advanced)
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
In the second 5/4 example, we're going to play an intense metal riff. As always, make sure you practice counting along with the riff before you start to physically learn it.
-
![]()
0:26
Time Signatures: 7/8 - Example 2 (Advanced)
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
This 7/8 example has a bit of a "celtic metal" feel to it. It's also quite a bit more advanced than the previous example. Be sure to get the count down first, then practice the riff very slowly.
-
![]()
0:30
Time Signatures: 9/8 - Example 2 (Advanced)
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
In this 9/8 example, we're going to utilize a lot of silence between quick bursts of notes. This will require some very tight rhythm playing, so make sure your mutes are executed cleanly.
And as always, analyze and count along to the riff before you...
-
![]()
0:35
Time Signatures: Backing Track - 5/4 Ex. 2
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
In the second 5/4 example, we're going to play an intense metal riff. As always, make sure you practice counting along with the riff before you start to physically learn it.
-
![]()
0:26
Time Signatures: Backing Track - 7/8 Ex. 2
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
This 7/8 example has a bit of a "celtic metal" feel to it. It's also quite a bit more advanced than the previous example. Be sure to get the count down first, then practice the riff very slowly.
-
![]()
0:30
Time Signatures: Backing Track - 9/8 Ex. 2
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
In this 9/8 example, we're going to utilize a lot of silence between quick bursts of notes. This will require some very tight rhythm playing, so make sure your mutes are executed cleanly.
-
![]()
1:31
"Wake of Souls" - Full Video
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Welcome! This tutorial is based on a snippet from a song I wrote called "Wake of Souls". We're going to be focusing primarily on tight rhythm playing with metal genres, particularly with progressive metal and metalcore.
Also, please note that the so...
-
![]()
0:50
"Wake of Souls" - Exercise 1
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
In this exercise, we're going to use a lot of palm muting on the 5th and 6th strings mixed between some higher notes. The higher notes are all on the D and G strings, so we're naturally going to be using some string skipping as well.
Since the palm ...
-
![]()
0:30
"Wake of Souls" - Exercise 3
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
In this riff, we'll be going back and forth between 32nd notes and 8th notes. There won't be any palm muting in this one, so be sure to let the strings ring out nice and clean. Also, give the 8th notes a good amount of vibrato as you can see me doing...
-
![]()
0:48
"Wake of Souls" - Exercise 4
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Metal
This is my favorite riff of the song. Melodically, it somewhat shadows the very 1st riff we did. However, it sounds much more aggressive here, especially with the accompanying drum parts.
Be sure to keep your palm muting tight and your picking solid...
-
![]()
1:32
"Wake of Souls" - Backing Track
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Have all the parts down? Great! Then it's time to practice with the backing track.
If you ever record yourself playing along, be sure to post it in the forum so we can all hear your chops!
-
![]()
0:48
Melodic Metal Solo - Intro & Original Version
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Hello all!
In this tutorial we're going to explore a short solo from a song I wrote. And we're also going to learn an alternate version of the solo.
In the video above, you'll hear the original version of the solo, then in the next video you'll hea...
-
![]()
0:25
Melodic Metal Solo - Alternate Version
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Okay, let's check out the alternate version! This one is a little more on the "shred" side.
Once you've heard both solos, decide which one you'd like to learn and start learning! :)
In the next lesson, we will start with the beginning of the origin...
-
![]()
0:27
Melodic Metal Solo - Original Version: Part 1
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
This part is pretty straightforward. We have some sustaining melody notes and a good use of legato.
You'll notice in the video how I use the whammy bar on the 3rd beat of the first measure. If you have a whammy bar, try it that way. If you don't hav...
-
![]()
0:43
Melodic Metal Solo - Original Version: Part 2
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
In the first part, we're going to use legato while playing a few 3-note-per-string patterns. Make sure all those notes stay equal in volume.
At the end, we have a small sweeping pattern followed by a double bend/release. First, practice that sweep b...
-
![]()
0:31
Melodic Metal Solo - Original Version: Part 3
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Here, we have two fast sweeping/legato patterns. Learn each pattern individually before merging them together.
You'll notice that we're going to tap a note at the end of each sweeping pattern. That makes things a little more difficult with the actua...
-
![]()
0:25
Melodic Metal Solo - Original Version: Backing
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Welcome to the first backing track! This one is for the original solo. You'll hear the accompanying harmonies as well.
If you'd like to learn the alternate version of the solo, head on over to the next lesson where we'll be tackling Part 1.
-
![]()
0:46
Melodic Metal Solo - Alternate Version: Part 1
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
To start, we're going to be playing some fast thirty-second notes up the lydian mode in a 3-note-per-string pattern. In the full video for this solo, my note speed varies very slightly in this area to give it a bit of texture.
At the end of the 32nd...
-
![]()
0:50
Melodic Metal Solo - Alternate Version: Part 2
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
To start off Part 2, we're going to be playing one of my favorite kinds of arpeggio patterns. I just love the sweeping/tapping combinations.
You'll start out by down-sweeping as you ascend in the A# Ionian mode. Then once you get to the G string, yo...
-
![]()
0:25
Melodic Metal Solo - Alternate Version: Backing
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Okay, here is the backing track for the alternate solo. There is a short section where you will hear harmonies.
If you're ready to create your own solo, go to the next lesson for the empty backing track.
-
![]()
0:25
Melodic Metal Solo - Empty Backing Track
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
What I'd encourage you to do now, is write your own solo over this backing track. Be creative. Use some of the techniques you learned in this tutorial, and add other techniques and ideas if you wish.
If you ever record your solo, be sure to post it ...
-
![]()
0:53
The Chase - Full Video
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Welcome!
In this tutorial, we're going to learn a short metal piece called "The Chase". Once you've checked out the video, head on over to the next lesson so we can start learning those riffs!
-
![]()
0:38
The Chase - Exercise 1
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
The riff in this lesson is somewhat of a "build up" to the riff in the next lesson. It's primarily focused on the open Low E string as well as the E and F power chords on the A and D strings.
Before playing the riff, be sure to study the rhythmic no...
-
![]()
0:43
The Chase - Exercise 2
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
This riff is a great example of pure "groove metal". It just grooves!
Just like in the last lesson, we're again focusing on using triplets. We have a good mix of both quarter and eighth note triplets.
There is no palm muting here except for on the ...
-
![]()
1:04
The Chase - Exercise 3
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Now we come to the melodic lead riff.
We have a lot of legato here. Plenty of hammer-ons, pull-offs, and slides. Since most of the notes are generated using legato, make sure your legato playing is smooth and the notes are clear. Also, make sure the...
-
![]()
0:52
The Chase - Backing Track
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
It's time to rock out to the backing track! Don't forget to turn your amp up to eleven. :)
As always, if you make a recording of yourself playing along, be sure to post it in the forums!
-
![]()
2:22
Heavy Metal Riffing - Full Video
Instructor: Pavel Denisjuk
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Hey guys!
Sometimes we get tired of practicing and just want to have fun on guitar. What is better than a couple of groovy riffs! In this short piece you'll get a chance to have fun with some heavy metal riffs and get to know some tricks which may s...
-
![]()
0:33
Heavy Metal Riffing - Backing Track
Instructor: Pavel Denisjuk
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Ready to rock? Hit the play button and enjoy riffing with the backing track. If you feel like recording, record this piece and post it on our forum - we'll be glad to listen and comment. :)
Have fun and stay tuned for more cool riffs!
-
![]()
1:40
Building Speed and Stamina - Exercise 1
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Exercises
Style: Metal
Okay! Let's get going on the first exercise. This is a long sequence, and I made it that way on purpose so we can focus on improving our stamina.
In this riff, we'll be playing different sequences repeatedly while we modulate to various keys. Play u...
-
![]()
2:28
Building Speed and Stamina - Exercise 1 Slow
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Exercises
Style: Metal
Here is the sequence slowed down a bit. Once you learn the notes, practice playing the riff very slowly. Concentrate on your timing and the transitions from 8th notes to 16th notes and vice versa. Before you start applying speed, make sure you can fe...
-
![]()
1:13
Building Speed and Stamina - Exercise 1 Backing
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Exercises
Style: Metal
Ready to rock? It's time to play along with the backing track! Make sure you are stretched and warmed up before playing. And if you ever make a recording of yourself playing along to this, be sure to post it in the forums!
-
![]()
0:35
Fahrenheit - Full Video
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
This is a little piece called "Fahrenheit". You'll be playing some Yngwie Malmsteen sweeps along with a few other cool techniques. Once you've seen the full video, head on over to the first exercise so we can start nailing these riffs!
-
![]()
0:42
Fahrenheit - Exercise 1
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
With this first riff, we're going to be repeating it in a few different ways, mixing around the picking execution as well as the octaves. We'll also be using sixteenth notes exclusively.
To start, check out the first 4 measures. Notice how the notes...
-
![]()
1:08
Fahrenheit - Exercise 2
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
This section is a bit more challenging than the last. We have a lot going on within the span of 4 measures, so let's take it one section at a time. You'll see in the video how I split up the riff into separate parts.
In the first section, we don't h...
-
![]()
0:37
Fahrenheit - Backing Track
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Got the whole piece down? Then get rockin' with the backing track! You'll hear the accompanying guitars in the background as well.
If you record yourself playing along, be sure to post it in the forums so everyone can hear your skills!
-
![]()
1:35
"Blackout" - Full Video
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Welcome to the "Blackout" tutorial! With this song, we're going to look at some ideas focusing primarily on metal and Eastern styles.
Also, note that this song is in Drop D tuning. If you aren't exactly sure what that is, click here.
Once you check...
-
![]()
0:52
"Blackout" - Exercise 1
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
This is my favorite riff in the tutorial. I love the atmospheric Eastern vibe it conveys.
This riff has a time signature of 7/8. So that means we have seven 8th notes accounted for in each measure. If you wanted to count the measure out loud, you co...
-
![]()
0:45
"Blackout" - Exercise 2
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Here, we continue the Eastern vibe with a more rhythmic and staccato approach. It's also an excellent exercise to help develop finger control.
First thing to notice are the rests. You'll encounter 8th note rests as well as 16th note rests. Make thos...
-
![]()
0:51
"Blackout" - Exercise 3
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
This exercise utilizes the open 6th string as well as octave chords.
In bars 10-13, we'll be playing the 6th string ringing out, but then be sure to palm mute that string starting on bar 14.
While you play the octave chords, make sure your fret-han...
-
![]()
0:55
"Blackout" - Exercise 4
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Just as in Exercise 2, we're going to be encountering some quick 16th note rests. When these rests occur, slap your fret-hand fingers down on the strings to ensure a solid mute. Watch closely how I do that in the video.
In bars 18-21, the rhythm wil...
-
![]()
1:34
"Blackout" - Backing Track
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Okay, have fun with the backing track!
If you record yourself playing along, be sure to post it in the forums!
-
![]()
1:18
Metal Breakdown 1
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Welcome to the "Metal Breakdowns" Tutorial! Throughout this tutorial, I'm going to add some random breakdowns that you can practice to work on your rhythm chops. If you're into hardcore or metalcore music, you've probably heard of the term "breakdown...
-
![]()
0:28
Metal Breakdown 1 - Backing Track
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Got it down? Then let's rock out with the backing track!
If you ever make a recording of yourself practicing with the backing track, be sure to post it in the forums for all to hear. Rock on!
-
![]()
1:45
Finger Tapping - Multi-finger Tapping in B Diminished
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
What is multi-finger tapping? It's pretty self-explanatory, as it simply involves the use of multiple tapping-hand fingers tapping through a passage. Its existence is for practical reasons, as sometimes it’s difficult to only use a single finge...
-
![]()
2:31
Rock On - Performance
Instructor: Pavel Denisjuk
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Alright! Time for some metal riffing! What we'll do in this lesson is - we'll take a simple key of E but will turn it into a Locrian mode and apply such techniques as standard down stroke picking, a bit of slides, artificial harmonics and some heavy ...
-
![]()
0:40
Rock On - Backing Track
Instructor: Pavel Denisjuk
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Learned the riff? Start rocking with backing track! Don't forget to relax while playing. And if you feel like recording - record your playing and maybe add a solo to it and post at our forum! We are always glad to track our student's progress.
Rock ...
-
![]()
1:20
"Expiration Date" - Full Video
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Hey all!
This is a piece I wrote called "Expiration Date". It has a good mix of metal, progressive, and hardcore elements.
Once you've checked out the video, head on over to the next lesson and let's learn it!
-
![]()
0:36
"Expiration Date" - Exercise 2
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Here we have some tight rhythm playing along with the bass drum. I love this kind of metal riffing, where there are quick bursts of notes amidst short rests in between. The contrast of notes and silence can really add a lot of neat dynamic to your rh...
-
![]()
0:44
"Expiration Date" - Exercise 3
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
This riff is pretty straightfoward. We'll be using all downstrokes as well.
The picking in bars 19 and 20 might be a little tricky at first. We're basically switching a bass note melody from the 9th fret A string(F#) to the 7th fret Low E string(B),...
-
![]()
0:27
"Expiration Date" - Exercise 4
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
This might be the most difficult rhythm section in this piece. We have a lot of fast sixteenth notes and we need to make sure the notes are played cleanly and that we avoid unwanted string noise.
Play it slow. Don't sacrifice accuracy for speed. Be ...
-
![]()
0:51
"Expiration Date" - Exercise 5
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
And finally, we have the outro.
The first 8 measures is a bit of a teaser for the following blast of metal madness. We're basically just playing the melody using quarter notes with all downstrokes.
After that, we're going to play the same melody, e...
-
![]()
1:18
"Expiration Date" - Backing Track
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
If you've learned the riffs, now it's time to play along with the backing track!
Since the the first part of the song is just guitar, you'll just be playing along with the high hat counts. After 4 counts, you'll hear an open high hat. Right when you...
-
![]()
1:34
Settle for Metal - Full Video
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
"Settle for Metal!"
That's what my great grandfather always used to tell me. Okay maybe not, but it sounds cool to say.
Alright, in this short song tutorial, we're going to look at some intense rhythm playing in the metal vein. Before diving into t...
-
![]()
0:37
Settle for Metal - Backing Track
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Got everything down? Excellent, try it with the backing track!
Be sure to make sure you're stretched and warmed up. This has a lot of intense rhythm playing, so we need to make sure that we're ready and relaxed.
As always, if you ever make a record...
-
![]()
3:25
Building Speed and Accuracy - Dividing The Beat
Instructor: Robert Mussatti
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
Hello and welcome to this tutorial on building speed and accuracy. One thing that alot of people ask is "How do I get faster?" and of course, the almost automatic reaction is "Practice!" and while that may be true, I really believe there is a lot mor...
-
![]()
3:13
Using Open Strings: The Basics
Instructor: Robert Mussatti
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
In this lesson, we will be looking at a technique that a lot of people tend to overlook, which is using open strings within your soloing. If you listen to any Joe Satriani, you might know what I am talking about.
The first thing we need to do is st...
-
![]()
3:09
Using Open Strings: Switching Between Strings Pt.1
Instructor: Robert Mussatti
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
Now that we have the basic motions and understanding of how this is done, I am now going to show you a way of using open strings on 2 or more strings, switching between them simultaneously.
This requires a bit of key signature understanding as well,...
-
![]()
0:28
Sweep-Tap 6-string Idea
Instructor: Pavel Denisjuk
Level: Crazy!
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
Learning certain technique can easily become boring sometimes. So to break out of a routine, we'll make it more fun by mixing up different techniques in giant licks which you can use in your solos.
So the idea behind this is to create a lick which c...
-
![]()
3:25
'Aftermath' by Rick Graham - Full video
Instructor: Rick Graham
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Metal
Hey! Thanks for tuning in to this tutorial in which we are going to look at a piece that I have written for my new album called "Aftermath'.
Aftermath started off a study I wrote for one of my students. The music was inspired by a television series ...
-
![]()
1:00
'Aftermath' by Rick Graham - Riff 1
Instructor: Rick Graham
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Metal
Alrighty then! Now that you have watched the full video, very carefully I might add, we can get to work breaking those riffs down so that we can totally nail them.
The opening riff alternates using the open, in this case, low D string with various f...
-
![]()
0:47
'Aftermath' by Rick Graham - Riff 2
Instructor: Rick Graham
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Metal
Riff 2 sees our first change of meter from 4/4 to 3/4 and then back to 4/4. Notice how the change of meter is very subtle, that is, it doesn't scream out at you.
The 16 note run in bar 15 should be played very tightly and cleanly. Listening to the d...
-
![]()
0:43
'Aftermath' by Rick Graham - Riff 3
Instructor: Rick Graham
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Metal
Syncopation is the key word with riff 3. It is important that you follow the accents notated within the score to achieve the correct rhythmic pulse. The meter here is 5/4 and each bar is divided into two groups of five 8th notes.
In the video, I pla...
-
![]()
0:33
'Aftermath' by Rick Graham - Riff 4
Instructor: Rick Graham
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Metal
Now we get some really heavily textured stuff. I really enjoyed creating this section of the composition as it was more about achieving an effect than anything else, although the common thread is still there as we shall see.
We have three changes of...
-
![]()
0:15
'Aftermath' by Rick Graham - Riff 5
Instructor: Rick Graham
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Metal
This riff is a little trickier than it seems at first glance, (or listening). The key element(surprise, surprise:p) is rhythm. You must practice this keeping everything as tight as you possibly can and at this point, there are no drums to guide you. ...
-
![]()
3:28
'Aftermath' by Rick Graham - Backing Track
Instructor: Rick Graham
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Metal
Have fun with the backing track!
-
![]()
0:56
Pending Closure - Full Video
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Alright! Welcome to the "Pending Closure" song tutorial. This is definitely one of my favorite tunes that I've written. What I'll be showing you in this tutorial is a segment taken from the song's mid-section.
Ready? Buckle your seatbelts. This one ...
-
![]()
0:32
Pending Closure - Exercise 1
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
In this riff, we have a good mix of alternate picking, palm muting, and legato.
First thing we should note, is how on every single pull-off you do, you'll be using a downstroke. Make sure you keep that pattern throughout so we can stay consistent wi...
-
![]()
0:29
Pending Closure - Exercise 2
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
Here we have a short little sweeping/tapping run. I love implementing these type of licks into my playing. It's a great way to add some flavor amidst all the intense rhythm as well.
If you are unfamiliar with sweeping and/or tapping, I'd suggest goi...
-
![]()
0:36
Pending Closure - Exercise 3
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Metal
In this section, we have a strong rhythm mixing octave chords with palm-muted alternate picking in between.
As always with octave chords, make sure that your index finger mutes all 4 of the non-applicable strings. We only want the A and G strings to...
-
![]()
0:27
Pending Closure - Exercise 4
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Like some of the other riffs in this song, we'll be palm muting the Low E string notes, while all other notes are played normally without palm muting.
Also, if you want, some of the picking in this riff can be played a little differently than how I ...
-
![]()
0:26
Pending Closure - Exercise 5
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
In this riff, we're actually playing the harmonies to the previous lesson's riff. So it's pretty much the same thing as far as the rhythms and techniques go, just played on different notes.
One key difference though is that the notes on the A string...
-
![]()
0:54
Pending Closure - Backing Track
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Okay, here's the backing track! You'll hear the guitar harmonies in the audio, but the main guitar parts are left out.
Have fun and remember to be patient while you learn this piece. This is a fast song so if you have trouble, just take your time an...
-
![]()
0:38
Metal Riffing with 16th Note Triplets - Every Other Beat
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Metal
As you probably saw in the last part of the previous lesson's video, 16th note triplets are a great way to get a machine-gun like effect with your guitar. And that's exactly what we want since we're focusing on metal playing. The riff in this lesson ...
-
![]()
0:44
Metal Riffing with 16th Note Triplets - Mixing it Up
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Metal
Next, let's mix up the 16th note triplets with a different kind of note. In this lesson, we're going to mix them with standard sixteenth notes.
Observe the first and second beats in the tab below. Do you see how the first beat has 16th note triplets...
-
![]()
0:46
Metal Riffing with 16th Note Triplets - Half the Beat
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Metal
In the last lesson, we split up multiple beats using different notes. Now, we're going to split up the notes within individual beats...
Check out the first beat in the tab below. You'll see the first half of the beat has three 16th note triplets, th...
-
![]()
0:52
Metal Riffing with 16th Note Triplets - Snazzy Riff
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Okay now let's just play a snazzy riff!
Before you try to play anything with the guitar, observe the notation below and recognize where the 16th note triplets are, as well as where the 8th notes are. Even though we're just learning a cool riff, do y...
-
![]()
0:53
Metal Riffing with 16th Note Triplets - Stamina Riff
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Exercises
Style: Metal
In this lesson, we're going to focus on a riff that helps your stamina. Stamina is the ability to do things for a long period of time. So with this riff, we're going to play straight 16th note triplets for the entire sequence. It's a great workout fo...
-
![]()
0:22
Metal Riffing with 16th Note Triplets - Stamina Backing
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Exercises
Style: Metal
In this lesson, we're going to focus on a riff that helps your stamina. Stamina is the ability to do things for a long period of time. So with this riff, we're going to play straight 16th note triplets for the entire sequence. It's a great workout fo...
-
![]()
0:50
String Skipping - Introduction
Instructor: Robert Mussatti
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
This tutorial is now going to focus on one of the most widely used techniques in rock and metal lead guitar outside of sweep picking, which is string skipping.
The odd thing about string skipping is that this term is used exclusively by guitar playe...
-
![]()
3:15
String Skipping - Pentatonic Ideas
Instructor: Robert Mussatti
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
For me, the easiest way to get into string skipping is from utilizing the simplest of scales: The Pentatonic.
This first example will help to get the basic movements of how string skipping is done. Play this example slowly at first if this is your ...
-
![]()
4:40
String Skipping - 3 string ideas
Instructor: Robert Mussatti
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
This next segment is going to cover the string skipping patterns that we are all familiar with: 3 note per string patterns. I will show you some basic examples and show how you can arrange them to help create your own voice on the guitar.
The first...
-
![]()
6:08
Sweep Picking: 3 strings (Major)
Instructor: Robert Mussatti
Level: Beginner
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
Now, I'm sure for a lot of guitar players in the 21st century, sweep picking is an essential that you need to have in order to be a successful guitar player and be able to express yourself more freely. Many guitar players, when first learning sweep ...
-
![]()
4:03
Sweep Picking: 3 strings (Minor)
Instructor: Robert Mussatti
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
Welcome to part 2 of this tutorial on sweep picking. Before, we learned the 3 types of 3 string major arpeggios, so now we are going to focus on the 3 types of minor arpeggios.
Now, if you know anything about chords, you will know that a minor tria...
-
![]()
6:57
Sweep Picking: 3 String Etude
Instructor: Robert Mussatti
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
In this lesson, I have combined most of the 3 string arpeggios we have learned so far into a little "Etude" which will give you an idea of how these can be used.
Now you might be wondering why we are learning all of these inversions. It's simple: ec...
-
![]()
2:04
Legato - Introduction and Hammer On Practice
Instructor: Robert Mussatti
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
This lesson will cover one of my favorite techniques along side alternate picking, which is legato. This technique has been favored by a lot of different players, especially jazz/fusion players like Allan Holdsworth and Brett Garsed who use legato t...
-
![]()
1:33
Legato - Pull Off and Stretching Practice
Instructor: Robert Mussatti
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
In this lesson, we will be going over Pull-Off and stretching exercises. Now, for the pull-offs, the trick is that you're not just simply lifting your finger off the fretboard, you're actually pulling the string off of the fretboard. A good way to g...
-
![]()
Legato - Putting it all together Pt.1
Instructor: Robert Mussatti
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
We are now going to take all the techniques that we have learned thus far and apply them to actual legato licks.
Now these licks can be used verbatim or they can be re-worked into different licks that you can use within your own playing.
-
![]()
Legato - Putting it all together Pt.2
Instructor: Robert Mussatti
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Technique
Style: Metal
Now, we are going to continue learning more legato licks but this time we are going to apply them to scales outside of the 7 modes. Hopefully these will persuade you into diving into other modes as well as making these a springboard into creating yo...
-
![]()
1:28
Internal Life - Performance
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Welcome to the "Internal Life" song tutorial. This is one of my heavier tunes and it focuses on having tight rhythm playing. Influential-wise, there's probably a little bit of Symphony X and Meshuggah in there.
Also, note that this song is in Drop D...
-
![]()
0:48
Internal Life - Exercise 1
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
I like this intro because it's pretty "in your face" and sudden. The main thing to concentrate on with this section is the silence and timing in between the passages.
Notice how in the video I motion the counts with my picking hand? I did that to em...
-
![]()
0:32
Internal Life - Exercise 2
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Okay, there's a lot of palm muting in this riff. Study the tablature below carefully to know which notes to palm mute and which notes to let ring out. If you look carefully, you can see that all the open string notes are palm muted, and the rest are ...
-
![]()
0:34
Internal Life - Exercise 3
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
This is where the song really gets pumping. Here, you'll mainly be playing 8th notes, but be aware of the quick bursts of 16th notes as well.
Also notice the couple of slides on the A string that you'll be playing with your ring finger.
Be sure to ...
-
![]()
0:41
Internal Life - Exercise 4
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
This part has a lot of 16th note open notes on the Low E string. And mixed in between we'll have some 8th note rests and quarter note rests.
Notice how my left hand is muting the strings again during rests? Be sure to always do that.
When you play ...
-
![]()
0:34
Internal Life - Exercise 5
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
This is a section where we have a hint of lead playing amidst all the rhythm. It adds a tasty flavor to the tune.
There's a little bit of string skipping in this as you'll see during the first few notes. Also, observe how the very first 3 notes are ...
-
![]()
0:26
Internal Life - Exercise 6
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
I like this riff because it shows a neat contrast between higher and lower notes. It's kind of a like a "call and answer" riff, where the higher notes call, then the lower notes answer.
Keep it clean and watch for the palm mutes.
-
![]()
0:43
Internal Life - Exercise 7
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Okay, here's the last riff of the tutorial.
As mentioned before, do your best to have your left hand fall on the strings during the rests. This definitely helps your rhythm playing to have a tighter sound.
First, we build up the riff playing a D# d...
-
![]()
1:24
Internal Life - Backing Track
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Okay all you metalheads, here's the backing track. Good luck!
If you make an audio or video recording of you playing along, be sure to post it in the forum to show off your skills!
-
![]()
1:15
Haste - Full Video
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Welcome to the "Haste" song tutorial. This is kind of a progressive/hardcore/metal sounding tune. There's a lot of intense rhythm playing in this one. Influential-wise, this tune was inspired by bands such as August Burns Red, As I Lay Dying etc.
Al...
-
![]()
0:41
Haste - Exercise 1
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Metal
This particular riff, as well as other parts in the song, utilize a lot of palm muting, power chords, and octave chords.
All of the octave chords are played on the A and G strings. When playing these types of chords, make sure only the root note and...
-
![]()
0:19
Haste - Exercise 2
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Metal
This part exclusively uses those Drop D power chords that we discussed in the previous lesson.
One important thing to note here, is my left hand. Besides playing the power chords, can you see what else it's doing? It's also muting the strings in bet...
-
![]()
0:21
Haste - Exercise 3
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Metal
This riff has the exact same rhythmic pattern as the previous riff, but with a few minor minor chord changes. You'll notice that instead of just using the Drop D power chords, we're using some harmonized chords on the A and D strings.
Keep your palm...
-
![]()
0:28
Haste - Exercise 4
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Intermediate
Topic: Rhythm
Style: Metal
In this pattern we'll be playing those octave chords we mentioned earlier. Keep in mind to mute them properly with your fret-hand index finger.
Use alternate strumming as you can see me doing in the video (down,up,down,up, etc). If you look at the t...
-
![]()
0:23
Haste - Exercise 5
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Exercises
Style: Metal
Here's my favorite part. What can I say, I like fast picking. In this riff you'll be playing 32nd notes, so it's pretty fast. However, as always, make sure you play the notes slowly until you're comfortable with the passage.
Also, make sure your pic...
-
![]()
1:18
Haste - Backing Track
Instructor: Sean Conklin
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Here's the backing track, have fun!
If you make an audio or video recording of yourself playing along, be sure to post it in the forum to show off your skills!
-
![]()
G Major Sextuplet Lick
Instructor: Robert Mussatti
Level: Advanced
Topic: Cool Riffs
Style: Metal
Welcome! I bring you another lick to satisfy your pallet, and this one is not for the faint of heart. This one is going to be a simple G Major sextuplet run starting on the 3rd fret of the low E string, all the way up to the D note on the high E st...
