How to Play Djent

Let’s talk djent—a genre that’s as much about precision as it is about aggression. If you’re aiming to nail that percussive, palm-muted sound, you’ll need more than just a seven-string guitar and a high-gain amp. Today, we’re diving into the techniques, gear, and mindset that will help you channel your inner djentleman (or djentlewoman).

Getting the Right Gear

First things first, gear matters. It’s not everything, but it sure makes a difference. To really capture that djent sound, you’ll want to start with the right guitar. Most djent players opt for seven or eight-string guitars. These extra strings allow for the lower tunings that the genre is known for, giving you that deep, resonant tone.

When it comes to pickups, active pickups like EMGs or Fishmans are popular choices. They deliver the clarity and punch you need, especially when you’re dealing with lower tunings. Also, a solid amp or a high-quality amp simulator is crucial. Software like Bias FX or Neural DSP’s plugins provide great options if you’re not ready to break the bank on a physical amp.

Don’t underestimate the impact of a good noise gate, either. It helps in maintaining that crisp, tight sound by cutting out any unwanted string noise or feedback. Combine all these elements, and you’ve got a setup that’s primed for djent glory.

Dialing in Your Tone

Once you’ve got the gear, the next step is dialing in your tone. Start by setting your amp or simulator with a high-gain setting. But remember, more gain isn’t always better. You want just enough to sustain your notes and provide that aggressive edge without turning everything into a muddy mess.

• Low-End: Keep it tight. Too much bass can make your sound muddy, so find a balance.
• Mids: Contrary to some metal subgenres, don’t scoop them out completely. Djent relies on mids for clarity.
• High-End: Make it crisp but not piercing. You want your pick attack to be clear without causing ear fatigue.

Experimentation is key here. Every setup is different, and what works for one guitarist might not work for another. Take your time, tweak those knobs, and find what works for you.

Mastering the Right-Hand Technique

Your right hand is the heart of djent. It’s what gives those riffs their percussive, staccato quality. Focus on tight, controlled picking, and pay close attention to your palm muting. The closer your hand is to the bridge, the tighter the sound.

Start slow. It’s tempting to crank the metronome and go full speed ahead, but precision is key. Practice with a click track and gradually increase your speed. This will help you maintain clarity and control, even at faster tempos.

Alternate Picking and Economy Picking

Two techniques you’ll want to get comfortable with are alternate picking and economy picking. Alternate picking is straightforward but requires consistent up and down strokes. Economy picking, on the other hand, involves using the most efficient pick strokes, especially when changing strings.

Both techniques have their place in djent. Use alternate picking for tight, chugging rhythms and economy picking for more fluid passages. If you’re looking for lessons from top-tier players, we offer some fantastic resources on Riffhard with insights from guitarists like Jason Richardson and Dean Lamb.

String Muting Techniques

String muting is like your secret weapon. Whether it’s palm muting or using your fretting hand to dampen strings, muting helps you maintain a clean, precise sound. For palm muting, rest the side of your palm gently on the strings near the bridge. This technique is essential for that chugging djent sound.

Your fretting hand can also pitch in. Use your fingers to lightly touch the strings you’re not playing. This helps eliminate any unwanted noise that might sneak in, especially when playing in lower tunings.

Combining Techniques

Try combining palm muting with fretting hand muting for passages that require extra precision. This dual approach ensures that only the notes you want to hear come through, giving your riffs that tight, controlled sound.

If you want to see these techniques in action, check out some of the lessons from our instructors on Riffhard. They’ve got some great tips on integrating these techniques into your playing seamlessly.

Understanding Polyrhythms and Odd Time Signatures

Djent isn’t just about the sound; it’s also about the rhythm. Polyrhythms and odd time signatures are a staple in the genre. These can be tricky to master, but once you get the hang of them, they add incredible depth to your playing.

A polyrhythm is when two different rhythms are played simultaneously. It’s like patting your head and rubbing your belly at the same time. Start by practicing simple polyrhythms, like playing a 3/4 rhythm over a 4/4 beat.

Odd Time Signatures

Odd time signatures are another hallmark of djent. You might find yourself playing in 7/8 or 9/8 instead of the standard 4/4. To get comfortable with these, break them down into smaller, more manageable parts. For example, think of 7/8 as a combination of 4/4 and 3/4.

Working through these rhythms can be challenging, but our instructors on Riffhard offer lessons that delve into polyrhythms and odd time signatures, helping you understand and apply them in your playing.

Building Dynamics into Your Playing

While djent is often about aggression and power, dynamics play a crucial role. By incorporating softer passages and varying your picking intensity, you create contrast that makes the heavy parts hit even harder.

Try experimenting with volume swells and using your volume knob to create crescendos and decrescendos. This adds an expressive quality to your playing, making it more engaging for the listener.

Articulation and Expression

Beyond volume, think about articulation. How you attack the strings can convey different emotions. A soft pick attack can create a more delicate sound, while a harder attack adds aggression.

Adding slides, bends, and vibrato can also bring more life to your riffs. Use these sparingly to emphasize important parts of your compositions. On Riffhard, we go through various articulation techniques that can enhance your dynamic range and expression.

Composing Your Own Riffs

Once you’ve got the basics down, it’s time to start composing your own djent riffs. Start with a simple idea and build on it. Think about how you can incorporate the techniques you’ve learned—whether it’s odd time signatures, polyrhythms, or dynamic shifts.

Don’t be afraid to experiment. Djent is about pushing boundaries and creating something unique. Record your ideas, listen back, and tweak them until you’re happy with the result.

Collaborative Jamming

If you’re looking for inspiration, try jamming with other musicians. Collaboration can lead to fresh ideas and new directions you might not have thought of on your own.

At Riffhard, we offer opportunities to connect with other guitarists and even enter riff-writing contests. This can be a great way to challenge yourself and improve your songwriting skills.

Recording and Producing Your Djent Tracks

Once you’ve got some riffs you’re proud of, the next step is recording them. A basic home studio setup is all you need. You’ll want a decent audio interface, a DAW (Digital Audio Workstation), and a quality microphone if you’re recording amps.

For those who prefer using amp simulators, plugins like Bias FX or Neural DSP offer great tones without the need for mics or amps. They’re perfect for home recording and allow you to experiment with different sounds easily.

Layering and Mixing

When it comes to production, layering is key. Record multiple guitar tracks to create a fuller sound. Pan them left and right for stereo width, and pay attention to EQ and compression to ensure each part sits well in the mix.

Experiment with effects like reverb and delay to add depth, but use them sparingly. You want your riffs to be clear and punchy, not lost in a sea of effects.

Final Thoughts

Djent is a challenging yet rewarding genre to explore. From mastering rhythm techniques to dialing in the perfect tone, there’s always something new to learn. Remember, it’s not just about the gear or the techniques—it’s about expressing yourself and having fun. If you’re looking for more in-depth lessons and insights from some of the best modern metal guitarists, Riffhard is a fantastic resource. Happy riffing!