If These Bullets Could Talk by The Number Twelve Looks Like You Chords & Tabs - Cliffvan Chanlor

Guitar Tabs Analysis

1. Unique Features of the Tabs

This guitar tabs exhibits several distinctive characteristics that enhance its musicality and technical demands. Particularly noteworthy is the use of sliding techniques and harmonics, which are integrated seamlessly throughout the composition.

• Bars 5-8 showcase a series of slide articulations (notated as (B3SC4)), creating a fluid transition between notes. Specifically, the movement from the 5th fret on the A string (5th string) to the 7th fret on the D string (4th string) demonstrates how elements of legato can be achieved in guitar playing. The player should aim for a smooth slide while keeping the rhythm intact.

• In Bar 12, the use of harmonics (notated as (B3G3Harm)) introduces a bright, ethereal quality to the piece. When the performer plays the 5th fret harmonic on the B string (2nd string) while simultaneously maintaining a bass line on the low E string (6th string), it showcases a beautiful textural contrast. This enhances the overall ethereal atmosphere of the music.

• Bars 15-17 incorporate several triple notes indicated by the < symbols, emphasizing syncopation and rhythmic complexity, allowing for intricate finger placements and strumming techniques that challenge traditional playing styles.

2. Challenges in Performance

Performance challenges arise primarily from the demanding sliding techniques and the precise articulation required for playing harmonics. Specific small sections pose greater difficulties:

• In Bar 10, the transition points where shifting from open strings to fretted notes should be executed with care. This requires a solid grasp of finger positioning and string muting techniques to avoid any unintended noise.

• Bars 18-20 present a challenge due to the rapid succession of notes interspersed with palm muting (PM) techniques. The performer must master rhythmic accuracy while maintaining control over the muting, which can be particularly taxing on timing and coordination.

Proposed Solutions:

1. Slow Practice: Target Bars 5-8 and Bars 18-20 by practicing at a reduced tempo to develop muscle memory for sliding and muting techniques. Employ a metronome to enhance timing.

2. Hands Separately: For challenging bars, practice the left-hand finger placements independently of the right-hand techniques. This will help in isolating and understanding the mechanics of each movement.

3. Practice Recommendations

To effectively tackle the performance difficulties identified, here are tailored practice suggestions:

• Sliding Techniques (Bars 5-8): Focus on the transition between the A string and the D string. Utilize slow slides, gradually increasing the speed while ensuring clear note articulation. Aim for a smooth legato sound without any breaks.

• Harmonics (Bar 12): To master this section, isolate the harmonic technique. Practice incorporating harmonics on the B string while simultaneously playing sustained notes on the low strings. This will develop coordination and balance between different hand techniques.

• Rhythmic Complexity (Bars 15-17): Create specific exercises that focus on the triple note patterns. Break down each triplet into single notes, gradually building up to the full sequence until the player can perform it cleanly and evenly.

By diligently applying these methods to the specific bars highlighted, players can not only navigate the complexities of this particular piece but also enhance their overall guitar proficiency, thereby increasing versatility in performance. Keep in mind the artistic interpretation in the nuances of slides and harmonics, which can bring a more personal touch to the music.