How to Learn Black Metal Guitar

Black metal guitar might sound like chaos to the untrained ear, but real aficionados know it’s a symphony of speed and intensity. Getting started with black metal guitar involves more than just fast fingers, it’s about capturing the raw, atmospheric essence of the genre. This guide will cover everything from essential techniques to the gear that’ll help you nail that cold, haunting sound.

The Basics of Black Metal Tone

The first thing that sets black metal apart is its distinct tone. So, how do you get your guitar to sound like it emerged from the depths of a Scandinavian winter? Let’s break it down:

• Distortion: Go for high gain, but not so much that it turns into mush. You want clarity in your chaotic whirlwind of sound.
• EQ Settings: Boost the mids and highs, but keep the lows tight. This helps to cut through the mix, especially if you’re playing in a band.
• Reverb: A touch of reverb adds that atmospheric vibe, giving your riffs a larger-than-life sound.
• Gear: Many black metal guitarists swear by tube amps for their warmth and responsiveness. A good distortion pedal can also do wonders.

Interestingly enough, some black metal bands use surprisingly simple setups. The key is in how you manipulate the sound, not necessarily the gear itself.

Speed and Precision: Alternate Picking

When it comes to black metal, speed is king. Alternate picking is essential for those fast tremolo-picked riffs that are a hallmark of the genre. Here’s how to get started:

• Grip: Hold your pick firmly, but don’t choke it. You need control without tension.
• Motion: The movement should come from your wrist, not your arm. This allows for greater speed and precision.
• Practice: Start slow and gradually build up your speed. Use a metronome to keep timing tight.

If you’re looking to master alternate picking, Riffhard provides lessons from some of the best modern metal guitarists. They focus on rhythm techniques that are often overlooked.

The Art of Tremolo Picking

Tremolo picking is a staple in black metal, providing that rapid-fire sound that defines many riffs. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

• Pick Angle: A slight angle can help the pick glide over the strings more smoothly.
• Consistency: Focus on evenness in your picking. Each note should be clear and distinct.
• Drills: Practice on a single string before moving onto more complex patterns.

While it’s hard to say for sure, some suggest practicing with different pick gauges to find what feels best for your style.

Blast Beats and Sync: Playing with a Drummer

Black metal often features incredibly fast drumming, known as blast beats. Synchronizing with a drummer can be challenging but rewarding:

• Communication: Work closely with your drummer to lock in tight rhythms.
• Counting: Get comfortable with odd time signatures and fast tempos.
• Practice: Use drum tracks to simulate playing with a live drummer.

On the other hand, practicing with a metronome can help you prepare for those high-speed sessions without the need for a full band rehearsal.

Creating Atmosphere: Chord Voicings

Black metal isn’t just about speed, it’s also about creating an atmosphere. Unique chord voicings can help:

• Dissonance: Use dissonant chords to create tension and mood.
• Inversions: Experiment with chord inversions for variety.
• Open Strings: Incorporate open strings to add a ringing quality to your sound.

Some guitarists also tune to non-standard tunings to find new chord shapes and sounds. It’s all about experimentation.

Scales and Riffs: The Building Blocks

While some black metal bands stick to the tried-and-true minor scales, others venture into more exotic territory. Here are some options to consider:

• Natural Minor Scale: A staple for dark riffs.
• Phrygian Dominant: Adds a Middle-Eastern flair.
• Chromatic Runs: Useful for building tension and releasing it dramatically.

Riffhard’s lesson library has over 150 video lessons that delve into various scales and riffing techniques, offering you the chance to learn directly from the pros.

Writing Your Own Black Metal Riffs

Once you have the basics down, it’s time to start crafting your own riffs. Here’s how to channel your creativity:

• Themes: Think about the atmosphere you want to create. Are you aiming for something cold and desolate, or fast and aggressive?
• Structure: Work on developing a catchy motif that can evolve throughout the song.
• Variation: Don’t be afraid to mix tempo changes or switch up picking styles for dynamic contrast.

Riffhard offers a unique feature called The Shredule, a curated lesson plan that can help guide you through the riff-writing process, making it easier to develop your unique sound.

Experimenting with Effects

While black metal is generally raw, a few effects can add depth to your music:

• Delay: Perfect for creating haunting echoes.
• Chorus: Adds a shimmering quality to clean passages.
• Phaser: Can be used sparingly for a psychedelic touch.

Some bands manage to pull off complex soundscapes with minimal gear, so don’t feel pressured to overload your pedalboard. It’s about quality, not quantity.

Finding Your Black Metal Voice

Ultimately, black metal is about expressing something personal and raw. Here are a few ways to find your voice:

• Influences: Study your favorite bands but aim to create something unique.
• Practice: Consistency is key. The more you play, the more you’ll develop your style.
• Feedback: Don’t shy away from constructive criticism. It’s invaluable for growth.

Riffhard can be a fantastic resource for finding inspiration. With lessons from top guitarists, you’ll have access to a wealth of knowledge that can help refine your skills.

Final Thoughts

Learning black metal guitar is a thrilling journey that combines speed, precision, and creativity. Whether you’re just starting or looking to refine your skills, remember that patience and practice are your biggest allies. At Riffhard, we offer a wealth of resources to help you along the way, from interactive lessons to expert advice. Dive into the world of black metal and let your guitar voice the chaos within.