Blue Flame by Alice Nine Chords & Tabs - Arett Negen

Guitar Tabs Analysis

1. Unique Features of the Tabs

This piece showcases several intriguing elements, particularly in the use of fingerstyle techniques that enhance the melodic and harmonic textures.

• Measure 5-7: In this section, the use of (B3HC4) for harmonic ringing alongside a sequence of C__ introduces a captivating blend of overtones, creating an ethereal sound. The fingerpicking dynamic here adds a layer of complexity, allowing for both rhythmic and melodic expression.

• Measure 8: Here, the use of PM (palm muting) paired with D (down strumming) creates a percussive effect that accentuates the primary melody. This technique is skillfully executed to contrast the airy harmonics encountered previously, showcasing the versatility of the guitarist.

• Measure 12: The incorporation of sliding techniques identified by (B3SC4) not only demonstrates a smooth transition between notes but also emphasizes the emotional curvature of the piece. This measure effectively blends melody and technique to illustrate the groove, making it a standout part of the composition.

2. Performance Difficulty Analysis

The piece contains multiple challenging aspects that could potentially hinder a guitarist's performance, especially for intermediate players.

• Difficult Techniques:

  • Harmonics and Sliding: Present in measures 5 and 12, these techniques may prove troublesome due to the precision required in finger placement to achieve a clear tone.
  • Palm Muting: The transition between PM and regular playing in measure 8 demands careful timing and control to maintain a cohesive sound.

• Quantitative Analysis:

  • Measures 5-7 and 12 are critical areas that contain these challenging techniques, while measure 8 introduces rhythmic changes that require keen awareness of dynamics.

• Suggested Solutions:

  • To tackle harmonics, practice (B3G3Harm) independently until the desired clarity is achieved, followed by incorporating it into the melody at a slower tempo.
  • For palm muting, consistently practice the D and U strums alone, ensuring you're comfortable switching back and forth between techniques without loss of timing.

3. Practice Suggestions

To help address the difficulties found within the piece, consider the following practice strategies:

• Measure 5-7 (Harmonics):

  • Spend time practicing each harmonic note separately before playing the entire measure. Focus on ensuring each note resonates clearly. A metronome can aid in maintaining a steady tempo while increasing speed incrementally.

• Measure 8 (Palm Muting):

  • Isolate the PM section. Practice slowly strumming down and then quickly transitioning to a muted sound. Gradually increase the complexities by adding the melodic notes afterward. Recording your practice can provide valuable feedback on timing and sound quality.

• Measure 12 (Sliding Techniques):

  • Begin by slowly executing the slide from the starting pitch to the target note. Use finger combinations that feel comfortable, and once you have mastered the slide alone, incorporate it into the complete measure with a metronome.

By focusing on these specified measures and incorporating these practice techniques, users will not only enhance their performance of this piece but also improve their overall fingerstyle guitar skills. Regular practice of these elements will ultimately lead to greater confidence and musical expressiveness, enabling players to enjoy the intrinsic beauty of this composition fully.