Come As You Are by Nirvana Chords & Tabs - Gemmark

Guitar Tabs Analysis

1. Unique Features of the Tabs

This guitar tabs presents a distinctive combination of technical flourishes and melodic motifs that highlight the player's dexterity and musicality.

Specific Bars with Highlights:

• Bars 3-4: The piece features a sequence of slide notes (B3SC4) that transition between the 5th and 7th frets on the A string, creating a smooth legato effect. The use of hammer-ons in conjunction with these slides introduces a flowing, connected sound that challenges the player to maintain fluid finger movement.

• Bars 8-9: This section showcases harmonics (B3G3Harm) on the 12th fret of the high E string, blending ethereal tones with the primary melody. The unique contrast between the clean harmonics and the plucked notes highlights the intricate sound design throughout the piece.

• Bars 11-12: An engaging variation of palm muting (PM) paired with a rhythmic, percussive strumming (D) creates a lively texture that propels the piece forward. This technique emphasizes the right-hand control while maintaining a syncopated groove.

2. Performance Challenges Analysis

While this piece is melodically appealing, it is not without its challenges:

Identified Difficult Sections:

• Bars 7-8: The sequence includes a rapid succession of pull-offs (using techniques like B3PC4). It requires precise timing to execute the transitions fluidly. Players should practice this section slowly and gradually increase speed to maintain accuracy.

• Bars 10-11: The synchronized strumming with harmonics presents a timing difficulty where both hands must work in perfect harmony. Players often struggle to achieve the clear articulation of the harmonics while executing the palm muting effectively.

Quantification of Difficulty:

• Technical Requirements: Intermediate level due to the combination of pull-offs, harmonics, and precise strumming techniques.
• Time Signature Complexity: These sections demand an understanding of rhythmic variation, pushing players to develop their inner timing instincts.

3. Practice Recommendations

To master the nuances of this guitar tabs:

• Slow Practice for Difficult Sections:

  • In Bars 7-8, break the passage into smaller segments, concentrating individually on pull-offs and slides. Use a metronome to ensure that each note rings clear and the transitions are seamless.

• Isolate Strumming Patterns:

  • For Bars 10-11, practice the strumming patterns separately. Use muted strumming initially, and then incorporate the harmonics, focusing on hitting the notes cleanly without losing the rhythmic flow.

• Use Varied Dynamics:

  • As the piece gains intensity, emphasize dynamics in your practice. This will help in achieving a balancing act between the vigorous strumming and the delicate harmonics, leading to a performance that captures the piece’s full emotional range.

• Recording and Feedback:

  • Use recording devices to capture your practice sessions. Listening back will help you identify areas that need further refinement, particularly in timing and articulation.

By focusing on these techniques and suggestions, players can develop proficiency in the musical skills demanded by this piece, ultimately enhancing their overall guitar performance.