How to Tap and Strum a Guitar Flash

Ever wondered how some guitarists make their guitar sing, scream, and roar all at once? The secret often lies in techniques like tapping and strumming with flair, something I like to call a “guitar flash.” This style is about blending speed, precision, and a touch of showmanship to make your playing unforgettable. In this guide, we’ll break down the essentials of tapping and strumming a guitar flash, focusing on the fundamental techniques, and how you can incorporate them into your metal playing arsenal.

The Art of Tapping: More Than Just a Party Trick

Tapping is an electrifying technique that gives guitarists the ability to play lightning-fast licks. It's not just for showing off; it's a practical tool for adding speed and flair to your solos. The technique involves using your picking hand to tap notes on the fretboard, creating fluid passages that are hard to achieve by traditional picking alone.

To start, place your fretting hand on a note, say the 5th fret of the B string. With your picking hand, quickly press down on the 12th fret of the same string. The sound you get is akin to a hammer-on but from the picking hand. Once you master this, you can start incorporating pull-offs to create a cascading effect of notes.

• Step 1: Practice tapping on a single string to get comfortable with the motion.
• Step 2: Gradually increase your speed, ensuring each note rings out clearly.
• Step 3: Experiment with different combinations of frets to create melodic passages.

It may feel awkward at first, but like all guitar techniques, it becomes second nature with practice. Tapping is a staple in metal subgenres like progressive metal and djent, where intricate solos are a must.

Strumming Like a Pro: The Rhythm of Metal

Strumming in metal is an art form in itself. Unlike the gentle strumming you might associate with an acoustic guitar, metal strumming is aggressive and precise. It drives the rhythm and energy of the song, and getting it right can set your playing apart.

Start with downstrokes, a fundamental component of metal rhythm playing. They offer a tight, punchy sound that's perfect for chugging riffs. Once you're comfortable, introduce upstrokes to add variety and complexity to your playing. This creates a more dynamic strumming pattern, essential for genres like thrash metal.

Here's a simple exercise to get you started:

E|----------------|
B|----------------|
G|----------------|
D|----------------|
A|---2-2---4-4----|
E|-0-0-0-0-0-0-0--|

Work on keeping your strumming hand relaxed yet controlled. It's tempting to tense up, especially during faster passages, but staying loose will help you maintain stamina and accuracy.

Combining Tapping and Strumming: The Flash Factor

Now, let’s mix things up. Combining tapping with strumming can create a dynamic performance that captivates your audience. The key is to fluidly transition between the two techniques. Think of tapping as your lead voice and strumming as the rhythmic backbone.

Start with a simple riff that incorporates both elements. For instance, you could play a simple power chord progression, then add a tapping lick at the end of each measure. This not only adds complexity but also keeps your playing engaging.

Try this exercise:

E|-------------------------|
B|---5---------------------|
G|---4h7p4-----------------|
D|-------------------------|
A|---2---------------------|
E|---0--0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0----|

Here, you're strumming a power chord and then immediately jumping into a tapping lick. Practice this slowly at first, gradually building up speed as you become more comfortable.

Building Speed Without Losing Precision

Speed is crucial in metal, but it should never come at the expense of clarity. Playing fast is impressive, but if your notes are muddied, the effect is lost. Here’s how to build speed without sacrificing precision.

Start with a metronome. It might feel restrictive, but it's your best friend when it comes to developing timing and speed. Begin at a comfortable tempo, focusing on clean execution of each note. It’s tempting to jump to high speeds right away, but patience is key.

• Tip 1: Gradually increase the tempo by a small increment once you're comfortable.
• Tip 2: Focus on small sections of a piece rather than tackling the whole song at once.
• Tip 3: Use alternate picking even in slower sections to build muscle memory and precision.

Interestingly enough, slowing down can sometimes reveal flaws in your technique that you wouldn’t notice at full speed. By addressing these, you ensure that your high-speed playing is clean and articulate.

Adding Dynamics: More Than Just Loud and Fast

Dynamics in guitar playing are like seasoning in cooking. Too little, and your playing might sound flat; too much, and it can be overwhelming. By varying your attack, you can add depth and interest to your music.

Here are a few dynamic techniques to consider:

• Palm Muting: By resting your palm on the strings near the bridge, you can create a muted, percussive sound. This is a staple in metal for creating tight, rhythmic sections.
• Accenting: Emphasize certain notes or beats to create a sense of groove and movement. This can be as simple as strumming harder on the first beat of each measure.
• Volume Swells: Use the volume knob on your guitar to create gradual increases or decreases in volume, adding an expressive element to your playing.

These techniques are all about adding texture and emotion to your music. They help you connect with your audience, making your performance more engaging and memorable.

Creating Your Own Style: Finding Your Voice

Every guitarist has a unique voice, and finding yours is part of the journey. While it’s important to learn from the greats, it’s equally important to experiment and develop your own style. This is where creativity meets technique.

Spend time improvising. Try different combinations of tapping and strumming patterns. Record yourself and listen back critically. What sounds good? What feels natural? This process can be as enlightening as it is challenging.

Don’t shy away from blending genres. Metal is a diverse genre with influences from blues, jazz, classical, and more. By incorporating elements from different styles, you can create something truly unique.

For instance, you might combine the aggressive strumming of thrash metal with the melodic tapping of progressive metal. Or, introduce rhythmic elements from djent into a metalcore riff. The possibilities are endless.

Staying Inspired: Learning from the Pros

Sometimes, the best way to learn is by watching the masters at work. Observe how your favorite guitarists use these techniques in their music. What makes their style stand out? How do they incorporate tapping and strumming into their solos and rhythms?

Here at Riffhard, we bring you lessons from some of the best in the business. Learn how to nail that perfect riff from modern metal legends like Dean Lamb of Archspire or Zakk Wylde of Black Label Society. These insights can be invaluable in shaping your own approach to guitar playing.

Watching live performances can also be incredibly inspiring. Pay attention to the subtle nuances and techniques that might not be apparent in studio recordings.

The Role of Gear: Does It Really Matter?

While skill and technique are paramount, having the right gear can make a significant difference in your sound. This doesn’t mean you need the most expensive equipment, but rather the right tools for the job.

For metal, a guitar with humbucker pickups is often preferred for its high output and low noise. Amplifiers with a strong distortion channel are also a must, offering that raw, aggressive tone metal is known for.

• Guitar Setup: Consider thicker strings for better tone and tuning stability, especially if you play in lower tunings.
• Effects: A good overdrive pedal can enhance your amp's distortion, while a delay or reverb can add depth to your solos.
• Maintenance: Regularly check your gear for any issues. A well-maintained rig can prevent technical mishaps during a performance.

While gear can enhance your playing, it’s crucial to remember that no amount of equipment can substitute for practice and technique. Focus on your playing first, and let the gear complement your skills.

Practice: The Unsung Hero of Guitar Mastery

All the techniques and tricks in the world won’t mean much without consistent practice. It's the foundation upon which all great playing is built. But how do you practice effectively?

Set aside dedicated time each day for focused practice. This doesn't mean hours on end, but rather quality time spent honing your skills. Break your practice into sections, focusing on specific techniques or pieces.

• Warm-Up: Start with simple exercises to get your fingers moving and your mind focused.
• Technique: Spend time on both tapping and strumming techniques, focusing on clarity and precision.
• Repertoire: Work on songs or pieces that challenge you, incorporating the techniques you've learned.
• Improvisation: Allow time for creative expression, experimenting with new ideas and sounds.

Consistency is key. Even short, focused practice sessions can lead to significant improvements over time. And remember, every guitarist has their own pace. Celebrate your progress, no matter how small.

At Riffhard, our lessons are designed to fit into your schedule, with a variety of exercises and routines to keep your practice sessions engaging and productive.

Final Thoughts

Tapping and strumming a guitar flash isn't just about technique; it’s about expression and creativity. By combining these elements, you can create a sound that's uniquely yours. Remember, every great guitarist started where you are now, and with practice and dedication, you'll see yourself grow as a musician. At Riffhard, we’re here to support your journey with lessons from the best in the metal scene, helping you to refine your skills and discover your own voice.