How to Write Post-Hardcore

Post-hardcore is a genre that’s all about raw energy, emotion, and creativity. It blends aggressive riffs with melodic elements, creating music that’s both intense and expressive. If you’re looking to write post-hardcore music, you’re in for a wild ride. This guide will walk you through the essentials, from crafting those dynamic riffs to perfecting your songwriting techniques. Whether you’re a seasoned guitarist or just starting out, you’ll find something here to inspire your next musical creation.

Understanding the Post-Hardcore Sound

Post-hardcore music stands out with its unique blend of aggression and melody. It’s a genre that pushes boundaries, often incorporating elements from punk, metal, and even indie rock. The beauty of post-hardcore lies in its versatility and emotional depth. Bands like Fugazi and At The Drive-In have paved the way, and the genre continues to evolve with bands like Dance Gavin Dance and La Dispute.

To capture the post-hardcore sound, focus on these elements:

• Dynamic Riffs: Think of riffs that shift between heavy and melodic, creating a sense of tension and release.
• Emotive Lyrics: Lyrics often explore personal themes, offering raw and honest storytelling.
• Vocal Variety: Post-hardcore vocals can range from screams to clean singing, adding layers to the music.
• Complex Rhythms: Don’t shy away from experimenting with time signatures and rhythmic patterns.

Interestingly enough, capturing the post-hardcore sound is not just about playing fast or loud, it’s about creating an emotional impact. This is where understanding your musical influences and experimenting with different techniques comes into play.

Crafting Dynamic Riffs

Riffs are the backbone of post-hardcore music. They set the tone and drive the energy of the song. To create riffs that stand out, consider these tips:

Mixing Power Chords with Melody

Power chords are a staple in post-hardcore, but combining them with melodic lines can create a rich, textured sound. Try playing power chords on the lower strings while incorporating melodic phrases on the higher strings. This contrast can make your riffs more engaging.

Experiment with Alternate Tunings

Changing your guitar tuning can unlock new sonic possibilities. Drop D tuning, for instance, is popular in post-hardcore for its heavy, yet accessible sound. Open tunings can also inspire new chord voicings and riff ideas.

Syncopation and Rhythmic Variation

Don’t be afraid to play with rhythms. Syncopation—placing emphasis on unexpected beats—can add excitement to your riffs. Combine this with unconventional time signatures for a truly unique sound.

If you’re looking for more inspiration, Riffhard offers lessons from some of the best metal guitarists, focusing on rhythm guitar techniques that can enhance your riff-writing skills.

The Role of Melody and Harmony

While riffs drive the energy, melody and harmony add depth and emotion. In post-hardcore, these elements often play a crucial role in creating memorable songs.

Creating Catchy Melodies

Melodies in post-hardcore can be both haunting and uplifting. Start by humming or singing simple melodies over your chord progressions. Don’t be afraid to let your emotions guide the melody. Sometimes, the most powerful melodies come from genuine feelings.

Using Harmony for Emotional Impact

Harmonies can elevate your melodies. Experiment with vocal harmonies or guitar harmonies to add richness to your song. Even simple thirds and fifths can make a big difference.

Layering Instruments

Layering different instruments can enhance the melodic and harmonic content of your music. Consider adding synths or additional guitar tracks to create a fuller sound. This technique is often used to build intensity in a song.

Remember, the goal is to create an emotional connection with your audience. Use melody and harmony to tell your story and evoke feelings.

Lyric Writing in Post-Hardcore

Lyrics are a powerful tool in post-hardcore, often conveying raw emotion and personal experiences. Crafting impactful lyrics involves honesty and vulnerability.

Finding Your Voice

Your voice is unique, and your lyrics should reflect that. Write about personal experiences, observations, or feelings that are meaningful to you. Authenticity resonates with listeners.

Storytelling Through Lyrics

Many post-hardcore songs tell stories. Whether it’s a narrative or a series of emotions, storytelling can draw listeners in. Use vivid imagery and metaphors to paint a picture with your words.

Balancing Poetry and Directness

While poetic lyrics can be beautiful, sometimes directness is more effective. Find a balance that suits your style. Consider what you want your audience to feel and tailor your lyrics accordingly.

If you’re struggling with lyrics, it might help to look at some of your favorite songs for inspiration. Notice how they structure their verses and choruses, and how they use language to convey emotion.

Vocal Techniques and Delivery

Vocals in post-hardcore are diverse, ranging from harsh screams to clean singing. Your vocal delivery can greatly impact the song’s emotion and intensity.

Mastering Different Vocal Styles

Experiment with different vocal styles to find what suits your music. Screaming can add intensity, while clean singing can bring out the melody. Practicing both can give you versatility in your songwriting.

Expressing Emotion Through Vocals

Emotion is key in post-hardcore vocals. Whether you’re screaming or singing, convey the emotion behind the lyrics. This connection can make your performance more engaging and memorable.

Maintaining Vocal Health

Vocal techniques can be demanding, so it’s important to take care of your voice. Warm up before singing or screaming, and stay hydrated. Consider working with a vocal coach if you’re unsure about your technique.

At Riffhard, we have lessons that focus on vocal techniques and tips for maintaining vocal health, ensuring you can perform your best without damaging your voice.

Song Structure and Arrangement

Post-hardcore songs often have dynamic structures that keep listeners engaged. Understanding song structure and arrangement can help you craft compelling songs.

Exploring Different Song Structures

While traditional verse-chorus structures are common, don’t be afraid to break the mold. Experiment with different structures, like intro-verse-bridge-chorus, or even entirely free-form arrangements.

Building Tension and Release

Creating tension and release is a powerful tool in songwriting. Use dynamics, tempo changes, or key changes to build and resolve tension throughout your song.

Arranging for Impact

Arrangement involves deciding which instruments play what parts and when. Consider the overall flow of the song and how each section leads to the next. This can help maintain interest and build momentum.

For more tips on song structure and arrangement, check out Riffhard, where experienced guitarists share their insights on crafting impactful songs.

Incorporating Technology and Effects

Technology and effects can enhance your post-hardcore sound, adding new textures and dimensions to your music.

Using Effects Pedals Wisely

Effects pedals can transform your guitar tone. Reverb and delay can create a spacious sound, while distortion and overdrive add grit and aggression. Experiment with different combinations to find what works for your music.

Recording and Production Techniques

Home recording has become more accessible, allowing you to experiment with production techniques. Layer tracks, add effects, and experiment with mixing to shape your sound. Don’t be afraid to try unconventional methods to achieve a unique sound.

Incorporating Synths and Samples

Synths and samples can add depth and interest to your music. Use them to create atmospheric backgrounds or enhance certain sections of your song. Just remember not to overdo it—sometimes less is more.

For more advanced production techniques, visit Riffhard, where our instructors share their knowledge on recording and production.

Collaboration and Band Dynamics

Collaboration is often an integral part of creating post-hardcore music. Working with others can bring new perspectives and ideas to your music.

Finding the Right Bandmates

Look for bandmates who share your vision and passion for music. Good chemistry and communication are crucial for a successful collaboration.

Balancing Creative Input

In a band, everyone’s input is valuable. Encourage each member to contribute ideas and be open to suggestions. Balancing creative input can lead to more diverse and interesting music.

Resolving Conflicts

Conflicts can arise in any collaboration, but handling them constructively is key. Open communication and compromise can help resolve disagreements and keep the creative process flowing.

Remember, collaboration is about creating something greater than the sum of its parts. Embrace the strengths of each band member and support each other’s creative growth.

Final Thoughts

Writing post-hardcore music is a journey of exploration and expression. From crafting dynamic riffs to delivering emotive vocals, each element plays a role in creating music that resonates with listeners. If you’re looking to deepen your skills, Riffhard offers invaluable resources and lessons to help you along the way. Dive into the world of post-hardcore and let your creativity flow.