How to Write Deathcore Guitar

The heart of deathcore guitar lies in its aggressive riffs, crushing breakdowns, and technical precision. You might be wondering how to capture that brutal yet intricate sound and bring it to life in your own music. We’re going to uncover the art of writing deathcore guitar, breaking down its essential components and sharing tips to help you craft those heavy-hitting tracks.

Building the Foundation: Tuning and Tone

Deathcore is all about heaviness, and a big part of that comes from the tuning and tone. Most deathcore bands favor lower tunings to add depth and weight to their sound. Drop B and Drop A are common choices, but some bands go even lower. The key is finding a balance between heaviness and clarity, so your riffs don’t end up sounding like a muddy mess.

Next, let’s talk about tone. You’re going to want a high-gain amp setting, but don’t crank it up to eleven just yet. Too much gain can lead to unwanted noise and a lack of definition. Instead, aim for a tight, focused distortion. Use an overdrive pedal to boost your amp for a more articulate and punchy sound. Your EQ settings should emphasize the low end for that chugging power, but make sure to dial in enough mids for note clarity and presence. A scooped mid sound can work for some, but it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution.

When it comes to pickups, active ones like the EMG 81/85 set are popular for their clarity and output. However, passive pickups can also deliver a killer tone if set up correctly. The choice often comes down to personal preference, so experiment to see what suits your style best.

Crafting Crushing Riffs

The riff is the backbone of any deathcore song, and crafting one that stands out is both an art and a science. Deathcore riffs often borrow from death metal’s technicality, hardcore’s aggression, and metalcore’s melodic elements. The trick is to blend these influences into something cohesive and original.

Start with a simple idea. This could be a palm-muted chug, a dissonant chord, or a melodic lick. Then, build on it. Experiment with different note combinations, rhythms, and techniques. Syncopation is your friend here, adding unexpected twists and turns to keep listeners engaged. Don’t be afraid to throw in odd time signatures or syncopated rhythms for an extra layer of complexity.

Consider using chromatic runs or diminished chords to add a sense of unease and tension. These can be particularly effective when transitioning between sections or leading into a breakdown. Remember, a powerful riff isn’t just about speed or technicality; it’s about creating a memorable theme that sticks with the listener.

For those looking to refine their riff-writing skills, Riffhard offers lessons from some of the best modern metal guitarists who can guide you through the nuances of crafting killer riffs.

Breakdowns: The Art of Controlled Chaos

No deathcore song is complete without a crushing breakdown. This is the moment where everything slows down, and the full weight of the music hits like a sledgehammer. Crafting an effective breakdown requires a good sense of timing and dynamics.

Start by stripping your riff down to its core elements. Focus on the rhythm and play around with different syncopated patterns. The goal is to create tension and release, so consider alternating between open string chugs and dissonant chords. Silence can be just as powerful as sound; use rests strategically to heighten the impact of the notes that follow.

Layering is also a key technique. Try adding harmonics, pinched notes, or tremolo picking to give your breakdown more texture. Harmonizing guitar parts can add depth and complexity, while a well-placed pinch harmonic can add a sense of urgency.

Finally, don’t forget about the drums. A breakdown’s power often comes from the interplay between the guitar and drums. Syncopate your guitar parts with the kick drum to emphasize key beats and create a more cohesive and impactful sound.

Incorporating Technical Elements

Technical proficiency is a hallmark of deathcore, borrowing heavily from death metal and other technically demanding genres. Incorporating elements like sweep picking, tapping, and rapid alternate picking can elevate your riffs and solos to new heights.

Sweep picking can add fluidity and speed to your solos, allowing you to traverse the fretboard quickly. However, it’s essential to maintain clarity and precision. Practice slowly to ensure each note rings out clearly before attempting to speed up.

Tapping can also bring a unique texture to your playing. Whether it’s a quick flurry of notes or a melodic passage, tapping can add a layer of complexity and intrigue to your compositions. Experiment with different finger combinations and patterns to find what works best for you.

Alternate picking is another vital technique. It provides the rhythmic backbone for fast passages and intricate riffs. Practicing with a metronome can help you develop the precision and speed needed for deathcore’s demanding tempos.

For guitarists looking to improve their technical skills, Riffhard offers extensive lessons on these techniques, taught by some of the most respected guitarists in the genre.

Adding Melodic and Harmonic Depth

While deathcore is known for its aggression, adding melodic and harmonic elements can create a more dynamic and engaging sound. This doesn’t mean turning your song into a ballad, but rather incorporating melody in a way that complements the heaviness.

Consider using scales like the harmonic minor or Phrygian dominant to add an exotic flavor to your solos and riffs. These scales can provide a dark, moody tone that fits well with deathcore’s themes. Harmonic layering, where you stack different melodies or harmonies, can also add depth to your compositions.

Chord progressions play a crucial role in setting the emotional tone of a piece. While power chords are a staple, don’t shy away from using full chords or adding extensions like sevenths and ninths to create tension and release.

Experimenting with counterpoint, where two or more independent melodies are played simultaneously, can add a rich texture to your music. This technique requires careful planning but can result in a more sophisticated and engaging composition.

Creating Atmosphere with Effects

Effects are the secret weapon for adding atmosphere and texture to deathcore guitar. Reverb and delay can create a sense of space and depth, while modulation effects like chorus or phaser can add movement and interest.

Reverb is particularly useful for creating a sense of scale, making your riffs sound larger-than-life. However, too much reverb can muddy your sound, so use it sparingly. Delay can create echoing patterns that add complexity and rhythm to your playing.

Modulation effects like chorus can thicken your sound, adding a lush, swirling quality to clean and distorted tones alike. Phaser and flanger can add a sense of movement and energy, especially during solos or breakdowns.

Don’t underestimate the power of less conventional effects like pitch shifters or ring modulators, which can add a unique twist to your sound. The key is experimentation; try different combinations to see what best complements your style and compositions.

Song Structure: Beyond Verse-Chorus

Deathcore often eschews traditional song structures in favor of more complex and varied arrangements. While pop and rock songs might follow a verse-chorus format, deathcore compositions often build tension and energy through evolving sections.

Consider using an ABCBA structure, where you introduce a theme, develop it through different sections, then bring it back for a powerful finale. This keeps the listener engaged and offers more opportunities for experimentation and surprises.

Transitions between sections are crucial. Abrupt changes can be jarring, but they can also add intensity when used effectively. On the other hand, smooth transitions can create a more cohesive flow, guiding the listener through the song’s journey.

Incorporate breakdowns, solos, and bridges to add variety and keep things interesting. Each section should serve a purpose, whether it’s building tension, providing a moment of relief, or showcasing technical prowess.

Lyric Themes and Emotional Expression

Lyrics in deathcore often deal with intense and sometimes controversial themes. From existential dread to personal struggles, the genre doesn’t shy away from heavy subject matter. The key is to match the intensity of the lyrics with the music.

Deathcore lyrics can be cryptic or direct, metaphorical or literal. The choice depends on the message you want to convey. Consider the mood and tone of your music when writing lyrics, ensuring that they complement each other.

Vocal delivery is also crucial. Deathcore vocals range from guttural growls to high-pitched screams, each conveying different emotions. Experiment with different vocal styles to find what best fits your song’s message.

Incorporate vocal effects like delay or reverb to add depth and texture to your performance. Layering vocals can create a fuller, more intense sound, especially during key moments like breakdowns or climactic sections.

Finding Inspiration and Overcoming Writer’s Block

Even the most experienced songwriters can hit a creative wall. When inspiration is lacking, it can be helpful to look to other genres or artists for new ideas. Listen to different styles of music or revisit old favorites to see what sparks your creativity.

Sometimes, stepping away from the guitar can help. Try writing lyrics, exploring different instruments, or working on other aspects of production to keep the creative juices flowing. Collaboration with other musicians can also provide fresh perspectives and ideas.

Don’t be afraid of making mistakes or writing something that doesn’t work. The creative process is often about trial and error, and sometimes the best ideas come from unexpected places.

If you’re looking for structured guidance and a community of like-minded guitarists, consider joining Riffhard, where you can access lessons and connect with other musicians to share ideas and overcome creative blocks.

Final Thoughts

Writing deathcore guitar involves a mix of technical skill, creative exploration, and a deep understanding of the genre’s unique elements. By focusing on tuning, crafting riffs, mastering breakdowns, and using effects wisely, you can develop powerful and dynamic compositions. For those seeking to refine their skills and gain insights from the best in the genre, Riffhard offers unparalleled resources and community support to help you achieve your musical goals.