Leaving Blues by Bombay Bicycle Club Chords & Tabs - Hican

Guitar Tabs Analysis

1. Musical Highlights

This guitar tabs is notable for its rhythmic patterns and melodic phrasing, which create a rich and engaging texture. Throughout the piece, especially from measures 9 to 17 and again in the second verse from measures 29 to 45, the use of open string notes interspersed with fretted notes enhances the feel of the performance.

Specific Measures of Interest:

• Measures 9-17: The transition through open strings on the D string (open 3rd string at 0 fret) creates a drone-like quality paired with melodic notes played on the 2nd string. This establishes a hypnotic backdrop.
• Measure 30: Here, a transition between the fretted notes on the 3rd string creates a smooth melodic run, showcasing a combination of plucked notes and harmonic movement that is both technically rich and melodically satisfying.
• Measure 60: The combination of open strings with fretted notes generates a wide dynamic range and expressive potential. The use of palm muting (PM) creates a contrast in sound that adds textural variation.

2. Difficulties and Techniques

The tabs presents several challenges for performers, particularly in managing transitions between open and fretted notes, along with rhythmic accuracy in percussive elements.

Difficult Sections:

• Measures 17-21 (Chorus): Maintaining clarity while executing the repeated notes (E3) on the 3rd string requires precise finger positioning and consistent dynamics to avoid a muddy sound.

Suggested Solutions:

• Practice slowly: Focus on the finger transitions to ensure clean articulation between the open and fretted notes.
• Use a metronome: Gradually increase the speed to develop rhythmic precision.

3. Practice Recommendations

To overcome the highlighted difficulties, targeted practice is essential. Here are focused exercises for specific measures:

Targeted Exercises:

• Measure 9-17: Practice the transitions between open D string and fretted notes on the 2nd string (2nd fret and 3rd fret). Use alternate picking to build speed and accuracy.
• Measure 30: Isolate the melodic run and practice it in segments. Focus on smooth transitions from open to fretted notes, preferably using hammer-ons and pull-offs to enhance musicality.
• Measures 45-49 (Pre-Verse): The open notes should be seamlessly integrated into the flow. Utilize muted strumming patterns to ensure you maintain the rhythmic feel without losing the distinctness of the sound.

Performance Advice:

• Warm Up: Always begin with finger exercises that focus on both fretting and picking hand coordination.
• Dynamic Variation: Experiment with strumming and picking intensity to see how it affects the overall piece’s emotional expression.

Conclusion

This guitar piece not only highlights the technical prowess of the performer but also invites expression through dynamic play and rhythmic intricacies. Each section contributes to a broader narrative, allowing musicians to delve into both technique and artistry. By focusing on the highlighted measures and recommended techniques, players can effectively navigate the challenges presented in the tabs, translating practice into a polished performance.