My Chemical Romance: Ballad Style

GMC'ers! Welcome to the second lesson based on the punk style of My Chemical Romance. This tune is inspired by songs “I don’t love you”, “Disenchanted” and “Famous last words” all commonly known for there ballad style.

I hear influences from British Pop bands like U2 & Coldplay in their music. Combining that with their powerful sound creates a very fresh & amazing style. The solo has some Brian May vibes in it who I think has a large influence on Ray Toro’s playing.

Chord Progression:
The major tonalities of the song are extremely common in ballad songs. The intro/verse progression is D (I) – Bm (VIm) – G (IV) – A (V). You can’t fail with this progression if you want a hit song. However it’s very important to create a nice melody over the progression and have great arrangements. That’s what makes MCR's ballads, special.

Key: & Scales:
D Major

Scales:
* D Major
* D Pentatonic Major.

Techniques:
* Alternate Picking
* Vibrato
* Bending
* Legato
* Strumming

Equipment:
Pod X3 (to record)- the preset includes a JCM800 amp simulator and a Marshall Cabinet (4x12). I added a tube screamer emulator for the solos.

Recommended Listening:
Please check out MCR's album, “The Black Parade”, released in 2006.

If you have any questions:
* Give feedback (upper-right-corner)
* My Personal Board
* General Forum

Rock & Roll!/ Gabriel