create a really cool phrase. The first point of interest here is the hammer-on.
Then, we encounter a semitone (half stap) bend which is a technique I am fond of.
As the phrase evolves, we see a motif (musical thought or theme) developing. The
groupings of notes each begin with a slur (bend, hammer-on, pull-off, bend etc…)
followed by a descending movement. The final grouping opens with a hammer-
on. So, we get hammer-on, descending movement, bend, descending movement,
hammer-on, descending movement, resolution. Try incorporating motifs into your
own solos. This phrase resolves with a short, quick slide into the root, A. Notice
that the slide into the A doesn’t originate anywhere in particular. In this case, the
purpose of the slide is to create a bit of movement into the A note and not to link 2
specific notes. In the video, you can see the way that it also allows us to move
smoothly into position for resolving with my ring finger. Without this position shift,
my 4th finger winds up being lined up with that note. Now, I’m all for using the 4th
finger, but I’m more comfortable using vibrato with my 3rd finger on the D, A and
low E strings. For my hand size and shape, that’s just more comfortable.
To view the video clip, click here.
