I Never Saw It Coming by Hundred Seventy Split Chords & Tabs - Hartesham

Guitar Tabs Analysis

Tabs Appreciation

This guitar tabs features a captivating blend of techniques and harmonies that enhance its unique character. One of the most distinctive aspects is the use of harmonics (notated as (B3G3Harm)), prominently found in measures 5 and 12, where the player utilizes the natural harmonics on the 5th and 7th frets, creating a delicate, ethereal texture that contrasts sharply with the more aggressive strumming patterns in adjacent measures.

In measure 8, the combination of slide techniques (notated as (B3SC4)) transitioning from the 9th to the 7th fret adds a fluidity that allows the melody to breathe. This slide creates a smooth melodic contour that is both expressive and engaging, inviting the listener into a dynamic narrative. The alternating hand techniques between fingerpicking and strumming culminate in a rich tonal palette, emphasizing the emotional weight of the composition.

Performance Difficulty Analysis

The tabs contains several challenging passages that require a solid grasp of various guitar techniques:

1. Frequent Use of Complex Finger Positions: In measure 3, players are required to use an arpeggiated picking pattern combined with hammers-on. This transition can be tricky as it demands synchrony between right and left hands.

2. Extended Sliding Sequences: Measures 6 to 9 feature multiple slides and pull-offs, increasing the technical difficulty. This requires precision and control to maintain the fluidity of the melody while navigating through different fret positions.

3. Dynamic Strumming Patterns: The contrasting dynamics between the aggressive down-strums in measures 4 and 10 challenge the player to maintain volume and rhythm consistency. The transition from soft fingerpicking to strong strumming creates an intricate layer of dynamics, requiring good control.

Solutions for Navigating Difficulties:

• For the arpeggiated patterns in measure 3, practice slowly, focusing on even spacing between notes. Gradually increase speed while maintaining clarity.
• For sections requiring slides and pull-offs, break down the sequences into smaller segments. Isolate difficult slides and practice them repetitively to gain muscle memory.
• To manage the dynamic strumming, utilize a metronome to keep a consistent tempo while practicing softer and louder passages separately, ensuring a smooth transition in dynamics.

Practice Suggestions

To effectively tackle the highlighted difficulties and improve technique, consider the following practice methods:

• Segmented Practice: In measure 3, isolate the arpeggiated picking, use a slower tempo, and gradually integrate the hammers-on. Aim for precision in finger placement and timing.

• Slide & Pull-Off Exercises: For measures 6 to 9, practice slide exercises between the 5th and 9th frets to build comfort with finger positioning. Focus on a smooth transition without losing pitch accuracy.

• Dynamic Control Exercises: In measure 4 and 10, practice strumming with emphasis on volume control. Use palm muting for soft passages to develop subtlety before transitioning to louder strokes.

By focusing on these specific sections and techniques, guitarists can enhance their overall skill set while gaining a deeper understanding of the music's expressive potential. This tabs not only serves as a learning tool but also as a vehicle for artistic expression, allowing players to explore various techniques that elevate their performance.