How to Write Grindcore

Grindcore is like a sonic explosion in your face. It’s loud, fast, and unapologetically aggressive. But how do you capture that chaotic energy in your own music? Let’s break down the essentials of writing grindcore, so you can create tunes that hit hard and leave a lasting impact.

Finding Your Grindcore Inspiration

Before you start writing, it’s crucial to get into the right mindset. Grindcore isn’t just a genre, it’s an attitude. It’s the musical equivalent of rebellion against the norm. Listen to bands like Napalm Death, Pig Destroyer, and Terrorizer to immerse yourself in the sound and ethos of grindcore. Notice how they blend elements of punk, hardcore, and death metal, creating a sound that’s both chaotic and precise.

Start by listening to a mix of classic and contemporary grindcore tracks. Pay attention to the structure, tempo, and aggression. What makes it tick? Is it the blistering speed or the relentless drumming? Maybe it’s the raw vocal delivery. Whatever it is, let that inspire your own approach.

Crafting the Perfect Grindcore Riff

Writing riffs for grindcore is all about intensity. You want to create something that’s raw and in-your-face but also memorable. Start with a simple power chord progression. Don’t overcomplicate it. The idea is to keep it tight and aggressive.

Experiment with different tempos. Grindcore often pushes the boundaries of speed, but slower, sludgier sections can add contrast and make the fast parts feel even more intense.

• Fast and Furious: Use alternate picking to create a machine-gun effect. Keep your wrist loose and use small, controlled movements for precision.
• Break It Down: Incorporate breakdowns to give listeners a chance to catch their breath. These can be simple, heavy riffs that contrast with the faster sections.
• Play with Dissonance: Experiment with unusual chord shapes or intervals that create tension. Grindcore isn’t about sounding pretty, it’s about evoking emotion.

Writing Relentless Drums

The drums are the backbone of any grindcore track. They provide the relentless energy that drives the music forward. Start with a basic blast beat, a staple in grindcore drumming. It’s all about alternating between the bass drum and snare at a rapid pace.

Don’t be afraid to push the limits of speed, but maintain tightness and precision. Use double bass pedals to add depth and power to the mix. Remember, the goal is to create a wall of sound that’s both chaotic and controlled.

Consider incorporating fills and transitions that keep the listener engaged. A sudden tempo change or unexpected snare hit can add a new dimension to your track.

Vocal Techniques That Cut Through the Noise

Grindcore vocals are raw and visceral. They’re often screamed or growled, adding to the genre’s aggressive nature. Focus on projecting power without straining your voice. Warm up before recording or performing to avoid damage.

Try different vocal techniques to find what suits your style. Do you prefer deep growls or high-pitched screams? Maybe a mix of both? Listen to vocalists like Barney Greenway of Napalm Death or J.R. Hayes of Pig Destroyer for inspiration.

Lyrics in grindcore are typically short and to the point, often tackling themes of social and political unrest. Keep your message clear and concise, and let your vocals deliver it with conviction.

Structuring Your Grindcore Song

Grindcore songs are notoriously short, often clocking in under two minutes. This brevity is part of the genre’s charm, but it also means you need to make every second count.

Start with a simple structure. A typical grindcore song might look like this:

• Intro: A short, punchy riff to grab attention
• Verse: Fast and aggressive, with rapid-fire vocals
• Chorus: Catchy and memorable, often with a slower tempo
• Bridge: A breakdown or tempo change to add contrast
• Outro: Bring it back to the initial riff or end with a sudden stop

Feel free to deviate from this structure. Grindcore is about breaking rules, so don’t be afraid to experiment with unconventional arrangements.

The Role of Bass in Grindcore

In grindcore, the bass often works in tandem with the guitar to create a thick, powerful sound. Use a pick for a more aggressive attack, and don’t be afraid to add distortion. The bass should be felt as much as it’s heard, providing a solid foundation for the chaos above.

Consider using a drop tuning to match the guitar’s heaviness. This can add a new dimension to your riffs and make them sound even more menacing.

While the bass often follows the guitar, try adding subtle variations or fills that complement and enhance the overall sound. Remember, the bass isn’t just a background instrument, it’s an integral part of the grindcore mix.

Recording and Producing Grindcore

Grindcore’s raw energy can be challenging to capture in a recording, but it’s not impossible. Start with a solid foundation by tracking the drums and bass first. This creates a tight rhythm section that the guitars and vocals can build upon.

When it comes to guitars, double-track them for a fuller sound. Use a combination of close miking and room miking to capture both the punch and ambiance of your playing.

Keep the production raw and unpolished. Grindcore thrives on its chaotic nature, so don’t overproduce. Embrace the imperfections and let them add character to your track.

Collaborating with Other Musicians

Grindcore is often a collaborative effort. Working with other musicians can bring fresh ideas and new energy to your music. Whether it’s a drummer, bassist, or vocalist, each member brings something unique to the table.

Communication is key. Discuss your vision for the song and how each part contributes to the whole. Be open to feedback and willing to make adjustments for the sake of the music.

Consider using online platforms or communities to connect with other grindcore enthusiasts. Sharing ideas and collaborating with like-minded musicians can help refine your sound and push your creativity further.

Why Riffhard Can Help You Write Grindcore

When it comes to mastering guitar techniques for grindcore, Riffhard is an invaluable resource. We offer lessons from some of the top metal guitarists in the world, focusing on rhythm techniques that are crucial for grindcore.

Our platform includes over 150 video lessons, interactive tools, and downloadable tabs to help you refine your skills. Whether you’re working on your downpicking endurance or experimenting with dissonant chords, we have the resources to help you get there faster.

With Riffhard, you’re not just learning from any guitarist, you’re learning from the best in the industry. Our instructors, like Dean Lamb of Archspire and Zakk Wylde of Black Label Society, bring invaluable insights and techniques that can elevate your grindcore songwriting.

Final Thoughts

Writing grindcore is about capturing raw energy and channeling it into something powerful and unforgettable. Whether you’re crafting relentless riffs or unleashing aggressive vocals, the goal is to create music that resonates with intensity. At Riffhard, we’re here to support your journey with lessons from the best in the metal world, so you can refine your skills and create grindcore that truly stands out.