Unlocking New Soundscapes: Spiritbox's Mike Stringer Explores the Magic of Extended-Range Guitars!
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Mike Stringer of Spiritbox: Atonal Chord Exploration – YouTube
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Utilizing 7- adn 8-string guitars in various tunings offers a wealth of inspiration for discovering unique and unconventional chords. A prime illustration of this is the track Keep Sweet, which I recorded with Spiritbox for our upcoming album, Tsunami Sea, set to release in 2025.
for this piece, I employed a 7-string guitar tuned to drop-A, which is effectively a whole step down, commonly known as “drop-G” tuning (low to high: G, D, G, C, F, A, D). Even though I don’t frequently use this tuning, it proved to be the ideal choice for this song.
Figure 1 showcases the song’s primary riff. This section is played at a moderate pace and is relatively straightforward to navigate. The tonal foundation of the song is B minor (concert key of A minor, due to the whole-step-down tuning), and I initiate with a distinctive B5b6 chord voicing on the 6th, 5th, and 4th strings, which necessitates a finger stretch between the 9th and 5th frets (allow your wrist to rotate as needed).
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As depicted in Figure 2, the G note on the 4th string acts as the b6 (flattened 6th) above the foundational B5 chord, contributing a dissonant and somewhat atonal character to the chord.
(Image credit: Future)
Next, I transition to a bassline-like riff on the 7th string, incorporating a whole-step bend from B to C# at the conclusion of bars 1, 3, and 5. At the end of bars 2 and 4, I play D5 power chords that lead back to the beginning of the phrase.After completing bars 1-4,bars 1 and 2 repeat,followed by a second ending (bar 5),which concludes with natural harmonics (N.H.) played at the 5th fret of the 5th string.
To effectively perform this song, it’s crucial to maintain a clear distinction between the dissonant B5b6 chords and the consonant D5 power chords.Additionally, when playing the B octave notes at the 2nd fret on the 7th and 5th strings, ensure they are well-separated.
The most challenging aspect of this riff is achieving a smooth transition between the D5 chord and the B5b6. This is emphasized in Figure 3. Aim for clean transitions so that each chord resonates distinctly.
(Image credit: Future)
Figure 4 illustrates the riff I perform during the initial verse. In bars 1-6, I alternate between the chords D5, A5, and B5, starting with full power chord strums and then transitioning to arpeggiated chords and two-note voicings.
In bars 7-9, I outline Bm and A chords using arpeggios, and on beat 3 of bar 10, I briefly reference Asus4, followed by a natural harmonic at the 5th fret on the 5th string, concluding the phrase with an open low A note.
(Image credit: Future)
I enjoy establishing “themes” as I craft the guitar segments for a song. In this instance, the initial theme revolves around the contrast between B5b6 and D5, while the second theme balances B5 and A5. Another recurring theme is the whole-step bends on the 7th string,which help unify the riffs.
Unlocking New Soundscapes: Spiritbox’s Mike Stringer Explores the Magic of Extended-Range Guitars!
Unlocking New Soundscapes: Spiritbox’s Mike Stringer Explores the Magic of Extended-Range Guitars!
The Rise of Extended-range Guitars
Extended-range guitars, including 7-string and 8-string models, have gained immense popularity in modern music, especially in genres like metal, progressive rock, and experimental music. Thes instruments offer a broader tonal palette,allowing musicians to explore new creative avenues.
What Are Extended-Range Guitars?
Extended-range guitars are designed to provide additional strings beyond the customary 6-string setup.Here’s a quick overview:
7-String Guitars: Typically feature an additional low string, allowing for deeper bass notes.
8-String Guitars: Include two extra strings, often tuned to lower pitches, expanding the range even further.
Mike Stringer’s Approach to Extended-Range guitars
Mike Stringer,the guitarist for spiritbox,has embraced the versatility of extended-range guitars to craft unique soundscapes.His innovative use of these instruments has not only defined the band’s sound but has also inspired countless musicians worldwide.
creating Unique Chord Voicings
One of the standout features of extended-range guitars is thier ability to produce unconventional chord voicings. Stringer often utilizes these voicings to create a rich, layered sound. For example, in the song Keep Sweet, he employs a 7-string guitar tuned to drop-A, which allows for a distinctive B5b6 chord voicing that adds depth and complexity to the music.
Benefits of Using Extended-Range Guitars
Wider range: Access to lower and higher notes expands musical possibilities.
Unique Tones: The additional strings can create richer harmonics and textures.
Creative Freedom: Musicians can experiment with different tunings and chord voicings.
Practical Tips for Using Extended-Range Guitars
For those looking to explore the world of extended-range guitars, here are some practical tips to get started:
1.Experiment with tunings
Don’t be afraid to try different tunings. Mike Stringer often uses drop tunings to achieve a heavier sound. As a notable example, his drop-A tuning allows for powerful riffs and unique chord shapes.
2. Focus on Finger Stretching
Extended-range guitars require a bit more finger dexterity. Practice stretching exercises to improve your reach and comfort on the fretboard.
3. Explore different genres
While metal and rock are popular genres for extended-range guitars, don’t limit yourself. Explore jazz, blues, or even classical music to discover new ways to utilize your instrument.
Case Studies: Extended-Range Guitars in Action
Let’s take a look at how some artists have successfully integrated extended-range guitars into their music:
Artist
album
Notable Tracks
Guitar Type
Spiritbox
Tsunami Sea
Keep Sweet, Circle With Me
7-string
Periphery
Periphery III: Select Difficulty
Marigold, Blood Eagle
8-string
animals as Leaders
The Joy of Motion
CAFO, Physical Education
7-string
First-Hand Experience: Mike Stringer’s Journey
Mike Stringer’s journey with extended-range guitars began early in his career. He recalls the first time he picked up a 7-string guitar:
“I was immediately drawn to the depth and complexity it offered. It felt like unlocking a new dimension of sound that I had never explored before.”
This experience led him to experiment with various tunings and techniques, ultimately shaping the sound of Spiritbox. His dedication to pushing the boundaries of guitar playing has made him a prominent figure in the music community.
Unlocking Creativity with Extended-Range Guitars
Extended-range guitars not only enhance musical capabilities but also encourage creativity. Here are some ways to unlock your creativity:
1.Collaborate with Other Musicians
Working with other artists can inspire new ideas and approaches to your music. Consider jamming with musicians who play different instruments or genres.
2. Record Your Ideas
Always keep a recording device handy. Capture your riffs and ideas as they come to you, allowing you to revisit and refine them later.
3. Join Online Communities
Engage with online forums and social media groups dedicated to extended-range guitars. Sharing your experiences and learning from others can provide valuable insights.
Join the Beatbounty Community
If you’re passionate about music and want to connect with like-minded individuals,consider creating an account on the beatbounty platform.Here, you can submit ads, collaborate with other musicians, and explore new opportunities in the music industry.
