Essential Aspects to Remember While Playing Your Heavy Metal Rhythm Guitar

by Paul Smithson

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The rhythm guitarist forms an essential part of any heavy metal band. They are the ones who are responsible for supporting and also enhancing the performances of the drummer during a live performance. If you happen to be playing a heavy metal rhythm guitar then you might find the following suggestions quite helpful.

Using the alternate picking technique

Alternate picking technique is very effective while playing rhythm in heavy metal. Picking a string multiple times, and at the same time inserting chords at different times throughout the riffs is a common while playing heavy metal music. Most of rhythm guitarists perform this trick with down strokes. Purists believe this is not correct. This particular trick can be best performed with the alternate picking technique. Using the alternate picking technique will help in creating fast, unique and intense rhythm combinations.

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Practicing rhythm with metronome

The best way to hone your skill in playing rhythm guitar is to practice with metronome. Heavy metal is basically a fast and aggressive form of music. So, as a rhythm guitarist you need to change your rhythms quite quickly and at a constant pace. This will help you to be in cohesion with the drummer. So practicing rhythm with metronome will assist in developing your skills of playing the guitar at fast and quick pace to match the drummer.

Inserting stops in your rhythm

The rhythm guitarist in a metal song has to be percussive in approach. So, it will always be a good idea to insert few stops in your rhythm. This will lend a more effective sound effect to your rhythm.

Creating groove element in your rhythm

Most of the successful heavy metal bands such as the Sludge Metal, Machine Head, Pantera, etc. always had a groove element in their music. The groove effect can spice up your rhythm and will help in creating that mesmerizing effect amidst the crowds.

Choice of guitar effects pedals

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For rhythm guitar players, the choice of guitar effects is very crucial. The best pedal for this kind of music is the BOSS Metal Zone distortion guitar effects. This pedal can create a wide variety of sounds from dark and heavy tones to chunky guitar sounding chops on your guitar. Another tip is to plug in directly from your guitar to the amplifier to get a raw sound.

So, whenever you are playing your heavy metal rhythm guitar keep these suggestions in mind and improvise accordingly. You should really manage some exquisite rhythm combinations in time!

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