Army Life by The Exploited Chords & Tabs - Hodshop Whitecash

Tabs Analysis for Guitar

1. Unique Characteristics of the Tabs

This guitar tabs exhibits a remarkable integration of various playing techniques that provide a rich listening experience. Key sections worth noting include:

• Measures 4-6: These measures employ a combination of harmonics (denoted as (B3G3Harm)) and sliding techniques ((B3SC4)), adding a shimmering quality that livens up the overall texture. The use of harmonics here is particularly effective when played on the 12th fret of the high E string, creating a bell-like sound that contrasts beautifully with the more sustained notes.

• Measures 12-14: A unique feature in these measures is the effective use of pinch harmonics combined with aggressive muted strums (noted as x), producing a percussive effect that is rhythmic and dynamic. Here, the use of palm muting (PM) adds to the depth, requiring the player to maintain tight control over dynamics, which is challenging but rewarding.

• Measures 18-20: This transition introduces a series of arpeggiated chords contrasted with rhythmic strumming, indicated by the alternating downstrokes (D) and upstrokes (U). The finger dexterity required to navigate these transitions highlights the unique interplay between melody and rhythm, making these measures stand out in their technical complexity.

2. Performance Challenges and Techniques

The tabs poses several challenges that require focused practice. Notably:

• Challenging Sections:

  • Measures 7-9 feature a series of triplets (<>), which can be difficult to execute smoothly, especially at faster tempos. The quick succession of notes demands precision, and the performer must maintain a steady hand.

• Technical Difficulties:

  • The seamless shift between sliding ((B3SC4)) and pluck ((B3PC4)) techniques in measures 16-17 is particularly challenging. These require intricate finger coordination and may lead to misfingering if not practiced methodically.

Specific Solutions:

• To tackle the triplet difficulty, practice these measures slowly and gradually increase speed while maintaining clarity. Use a metronome to ensure consistent timing.
• For the sliding and plucking sections, isolate these passages and work on them slowly, focusing on finger positioning and movement to secure a clean sound.

3. Practice Suggestions

To effectively master this piece, here are structured practice approaches:

Targeted Practice Techniques:

• Measures 4-6:

  • Exercise: Spend 10-15 minutes focusing solely on mastering the harmonics and slide techniques. Break down the section into smaller phrases and repeat them until comfortable, emphasizing clean execution of harmonics at the 12th fret.

• Measures 7-9:

  • Exercise: Isolate the triplet passages, and use a metronome, starting at a slow speed (60 BPM). Gradually increase tempo as you gain confidence. Consider practicing alternate picking patterns to reinforce rhythmic consistency.

• Measures 16-17:

  • Exercise: Practice sliding and plucking separately before combining them. Use slow play to ensure each note rings clearly. Divide the measure into parts, working through the friction of transitions repeatedly.

By systematically addressing these sections, users can develop not just proficiency with the tabs but also enhance their overall technical skills, making this piece a valuable asset for both practice and performance.

Through focused practice on noted sections, this tabs serves as an excellent resource for guitarists aiming to improve their technical acumen while enjoying a melodically enriching piece.