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Posted by: Todd Simpson May 17 2012, 05:38 AM

Welcome to SHRED BOOTCAMP! I'll be your Drill Instructor! And I do mean DRILL! As in a large power tool used in slasher films and Paul Gilbert concerts. Here is were you EARN THE LIVING DEATH out of your fingers and break through any speed bumps/barriers to become a MASTER CHIEF of Shred!

Posted by: Todd Simpson May 27 2012, 09:38 PM

Soldier you are on a MISSION! Actually several MISSIONS. As you complete one mission/lesson, start on the next! So Do one Lesson/Mission at at time, making a video example for each workout in a given lesson. If there are four examples, then you have to master all four and make videos so it gets CRAZY hard later on. For now, there are mostly one example per lesson. So start on your next!

All of the lessons/Missions are listed at the bottom of this page in the wiki! Get Moving Solider!

http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/wiki/index.php/Todd_Simpson_-_Shred_Journey

Todd

Posted by: MonkeyDAthos May 29 2012, 01:32 AM

Hey Big Boss Todd, sorry i have been busy with exams and stuff, but i am finally free, been practicing MISSON #1 on the little free time i can find and i noticed some improvement on my picking!! , i shall post a video in a few days.

Posted by: Todd Simpson Jun 4 2012, 02:37 AM

To ensure smoother reaction time on the part of your Drill Instructor (me), be sure to shoot me a PM whenever you complete a mission so that I know to check your THREAD OF DEATH for new Mission! Looking forward to seeing it!

Todd

Posted by: MonkeyDAthos Nov 2 2016, 12:12 PM

Sir, coordinates for mission 1 were unclear, ended up wandering for years in a random asian jungle.

I have no way to video tape myself atm. But i can record audio, hope you don't mind.

I am using my faithful Epiphone Sg, Guitar Rig and Jazz III Petrucci sig. I also play in the classical position with a guitar footstool - just in case your wondering -

My current goal is probably 6 notes per beat at 130 bpm.

Anyways.


MISSION 1 REPORT

https://soundcloud.com/renato-santos-658226572/todd-mission-2-and-4-pb-160bpm/s-Mcudd
2 and 4 notes per beat at 160bpm.

https://soundcloud.com/renato-santos-658226572/todd-mission-3-and-6-np-110bpm/s-8vaUO

3 and 6 notes pet beat at 110 bpm ( Not gonna lie, its a bit out of my comfort area here )

Posted by: Todd Simpson Nov 2 2016, 01:14 PM

Congrats on getting the Mission fought Soldier!!! Do you have a cell phone? Nearly every cell phone has a camera. That is a perfect way to record yourself The audio quality is beside the point. I really need to see you play if at all possible so I can give you some tips on how you are playing the MISSION. For now, we will work with what we have Just glad you actually started. Some folks never do, some folks just up and quit, and never get much better, please don't be one of those!

Onward!

Let's debrief...

MEDALS OF HONOR

Welcome to a very Elite group Soldier!! You are off to a great start!

1.)Maintained splendid palm mute / right hand control.(one tip to follow)
2.)Maintained tight and precise picking. (well done there)
3.)Maintained control of each strike and it's timing.

Very well played. Your left and right hand synchronization is quite good. Not being able to see how you are playing, I'm unable to offer any advice on exactly what you might change. But for now, ...

YOU JUST LEVELED UP!!

QUOTE (MonkeyDAthos @ Nov 2 2016, 07:12 AM)

Sir, coordinates for mission 1 were unclear, ended up wandering for years in a random asian jungle.

I have no way to video tape myself atm. But i can record audio, hope you don't mind.

I am using my faithful Epiphone Sg, Guitar Rig and Jazz III Petrucci sig. I also play in the classical position with a guitar footstool - just in case your wondering -

My current goal is probably 6 notes per beat at 130 bpm.

Anyways.


MISSION 1 REPORT

https://soundcloud.com/renato-santos-658226572/todd-mission-2-and-4-pb-160bpm/s-Mcudd
2 and 4 notes per beat at 160bpm.

https://soundcloud.com/renato-santos-658226572/todd-mission-3-and-6-np-110bpm/s-8vaUO

3 and 6 notes pet beat at 110 bpm ( Not gonna lie, its a bit out of my comfort area here )

Posted by: MonkeyDAthos Nov 2 2016, 01:19 PM

I am using an Asus, it does have an webcam.
But i cant the find the drivers or software related to it (installed). Let dig some and i will re upload with video.

And no i don't use Cell phone, never did.

Posted by: MonkeyDAthos Nov 2 2016, 01:49 PM

Ok Sarge, how would i go around, if i wanted to sync video and guitar rig.. i am completely noob when it comes to this stuff.

Because other wise it sounds like farts

Posted by: Todd Simpson Nov 2 2016, 11:09 PM

The video you posted is "PRIVATE" so I can't see it But if you change it to "UNLISTED" then I can see it and only folks you send the link to can see it so it's not public. I'd like to see it

Synching audio and video can be simple. If you are using a cell phone to record the entire thing, just turn up your computer speakers enough to let the microphone on the phone pick up the sound, then hit record video on the cell phone. The resulting vid will come out already synched and ready to go. Or at least it should. The quality of the audio is plenty fine using the mic on the phone. Also, it's the most simple and direct way to record vids as it's one single step.

Given that you are just starting out, I'd say this is the best way to proceed for the moment

Once you get a bit further down the road, you can record your audio and vid separately and synch them up in a video editing program. Some folks like Sony Vegas, or Adobe Premiere. Some folks make do with Windows Movie Maker. Whatever you use, just make sure you do a "synch pop" just clap your hands on camera, it will give you a visual to reference and in your video editing program, you can see the audio wave form make a spike where you clapped. Line those up and bam, synch!

Todd

QUOTE (MonkeyDAthos @ Nov 2 2016, 08:49 AM)

Ok Sarge, how would i go around, if i wanted to sync video and guitar rig.. i am completely noob when it comes to this stuff.

Because other wise it sounds like farts

Posted by: MonkeyDAthos Nov 3 2016, 10:35 AM

There. Changed the settings, I am still pretty green with this kind of stuff.

I do have Sony Vegas, I wil try and mess around with the clapping as you said, and hope not to fail miserably.

Posted by: MonkeyDAthos Nov 3 2016, 04:55 PM

Ii am a few bpm up my hill, but here is mission 1 re-take, this time i tried to that clapping trick u told. I think it's still slighty off the audio and video! though. Gotto practice.

Posted by: Todd Simpson Nov 5 2016, 03:12 AM

Some very fine playing here Far and above what is needed for the first badge. I need to point out though that what you are playing is a slight modification of the actual tablature which is just two simple notes instead of four if memory serves I like yours better though, I may have to change what's there

The Synch seems more than fine to me. One thing I notice is that even though you seem spot on with your timing I can't hear your metronome. Usually that's pretty important at first, so that I can tell that you are playing along with the beat. Are you recording with your cell phone? If you have a pair of any speakers of any kind or a blue tooth speaker, or even running out from the headphone jack to a guitar amp on a clean channel, anything, so that I can hear the click, metronome, etc, it would be good

You are more than ready for the next Mission Soldier!!


Todd

QUOTE (MonkeyDAthos @ Nov 3 2016, 11:55 AM)

Posted by: MonkeyDAthos Nov 9 2016, 04:17 PM

Sorry Todd was recovering from a bad indigestion plus Winter has finally arrived! Wasn't feeling in my best shape.

So Mission 2 at 130 bpm
For some reason my webcam just went back to the stone age. It used to work with 30ish fps. Dunno what happened.

Posted by: Todd Simpson Nov 10 2016, 12:49 PM

The MISSION 2 vid is more than plenty for me to see what is going on and you are playing very well!!! Similar another Soldier, you make it looks easy!! Almost too easy!! To wit, I'm going to place you on Detached Duty in BLACK OPS and have you do a MULTI PICKING version of this lick. It's on a single string so string traverse should not be an issue. I'd like to see a DOUBLE PICK version of this lick. This just means, pick every note, twice, that's all Your Mission 1 is more than plenty for getting you on the ORDER OF BATTLE and your second version is even better!! Congrats on getting in to Video Editing as well!!!!

So once more in to the Breach Soldier!!!! Another chance to work on your vid synch/editing skills and a chance to hit double picking early on in the rotation.

Sarge

QUOTE (MonkeyDAthos @ Nov 9 2016, 11:17 AM)

Posted by: MonkeyDAthos Jan 16 2017, 02:32 PM

Hi Tod, Sorry for the low activity. I've been focusing in other aspects of my guitar playing atm plus my interface is in need of repairing.

Still I would love to have your insight on something.

I was practising Technical Difficulties Intro. And I can tackle the whole beast at a relaxed 105 bpm atm (original speed being 130).
But there is this part! Which you might find suprising that find it the most difficult of all the gilbertian runs that are going on.

How would you do that passage between the 10 note on the A string and the 10 note on the D string?
Because, right now if I get one clean, the other gets pretty dead.

Thx for your time!

 TechDif_Small_lick.gp5 ( 1.73K ) : 197

Posted by: Todd Simpson Jan 17 2017, 05:55 AM

I'd suggest sitting in classical position, using a very stiff, pointy, pick and playing the bit in question as slowly as needed to make it sound smooth. There are bits in solos that will get you hung up. Just isolate and loop that spot with a metronome or a clip of the song and play it as slow as you need to keep it clean then speed up bit by bit.

Todd

QUOTE (MonkeyDAthos @ Jan 16 2017, 09:32 AM)

Posted by: MonkeyDAthos May 26 2017, 07:15 PM

Hi Todd,
So got some free time to dedicate to the fine arts of burning strings.

I've been working in 6 notes per beat (Sorry the lack of proper terminology, that's what I called it in an everyday basis).
To be honest, I am kinda stuck in terms of progress. I started at November 2016 at around 70 bpm. But for the past 2 months I can't seem to break the barrier.

And it's not that I have this mindset, Oh, it's impossible. I can grasp the goal around my hand, but can't really grab it.

Here's some videos at 80, 100, 110, 120(pretty sloppy), 130(pretty pretty sloppy).
Sorry about the sound quality, my interface is in need of soldering.











Do you see any major "flaws" that might have missed my novice eyes.
What do you think it's the best way to me to improve? Should I just keep grinding?

Posted by: Todd Simpson May 26 2017, 09:28 PM

Well played soldier! All of these are very fine warm up licks and your technique is solid all around. I'd suggest plowing through the next few mission and trying to reach about level 50. It's at that point you can look back and see pretty massive gains. You have a good start, just keep going!

Sarge

Posted by: MonkeyDAthos Jul 18 2017, 07:30 PM

LESSON #3 - Reversing Patterns /Changing Strings

So changing string with inside picking it probably one of the hardest aspect of alternate picking for me.




And an over optimistic one



One of the main issues I've come to notice, is my left hand over tensing and accumulating tension over time, specially in the lower frets.
I am still trying to work out on that. Trying to figure out how to get rid off it, or at least reduce it.

Posted by: Todd Simpson Jul 19 2017, 04:33 AM

WELL FOUGHT SOLDIER!! This lesson will really show you if you are having tension issues. Hopefully we can work them out so that the rest of the lessons will seem much easier as will string traverse/alt picking while soloing. Learning to relax the right hand is something that takes a bit of practice. The best way I found to do it, (I had the same tension issues, everyone does, some folks resort to picking from the elbow) was to isolate my right hand entirely. E.G. Take my left hand off the neck entirely and play a given bit as if my left had was there, but just using the right hand and a palm mute. Still traversing strings, just picking open strings or fretting all of them and not moving my left hand. That way, I could focus on keeping my right hand relaxed. Had to start quite slow, well below what I could play, and build up slowly while focusing on not letting the hand tense. After a while it becomes almost an instinct. Something you don't even think about. But it does take time. Especially if you are focusing on the left hand, the right will just start to tense a bit. So always focus a bit on the right hand and keep it just loose enough

Let's Debrief!

MEDALS OF HONOR
*Traverse! Great job on alt picking while traverse descending strings!
*Muting! Great job on palm muting and not letting any string noise leak through!
*Solid Pace! Also great job on not rushing or dragging. Spot on and in synch the whole way.

In other words, you just

LEVELED UP!!!

QUOTE (MonkeyDAthos @ Jul 18 2017, 02:30 PM)

Posted by: MonkeyDAthos Jul 19 2017, 12:07 PM

In this type of 3nps my right hand is fairly relax tbh. I can pick it at about 140 bpm (6 notes per beat) with fairly low tension and quite relaxed.
But then the left hand starts to cramp and getting tired and everything start to derail.

On the opposite point, your Zakk wylde 2nps pentatonic kinda lick, it really beats my right hand when it comes to tension.

But it's all about practicing. That being said, I shall post mission 4 in a couple of days from now.

Posted by: Todd Simpson Jul 22 2017, 04:07 AM

Try to focus on keeping your hand relaxed rather than pushing the speed. The speed will come when you can keep your picking hand very relaxed no matter what the BPM is set to. Tensing up will actually reduce your top speed and burn out your hand much quicker. So forget about trying to play fast for now. Just focus on trying to play a bit more loose on the right hand. Enough to strike the string, nothing more. That's the key. Once you get that, the speed will take care of itself

Sarge

QUOTE (MonkeyDAthos @ Jul 19 2017, 07:07 AM)

Posted by: MonkeyDAthos Aug 15 2017, 06:49 PM

Hi Todd!
I am summer working atm to pay up music school monthly feeds.
I am far from being in my best shape , my arms are full of small stabs from climbing trees and my fingers feel kind of slow and rigid from catching fruit all day.

Still managed to play like 1h of guitar every day.

So here is mission 4, actually this is more of a quick practice session rather than a final take, but seeing I am working with little time I decided to post it.
150 bpms 4 notes per beat ( I think)



Edit: The dream would be 20+bpms, still gotto practice.

Damn my bald spot seems to be getting worse every day RIP genetics.

Posted by: MonkeyDAthos Aug 18 2017, 05:41 PM

Hi Todd, believe me or not. But i've played a 100 euros Epiphone SG Special all my life! (It survived traveling around the country, gig, a lot of story and my own blood on it). I am strong believer that if you have the skill you can make any guitar sound good.

But alas, bending the 22 fret so I can hit the 24 fret its quite no effective 80% of the time, even having to play that higher up (19-22 frets) can be a pain, especially on the lower strings.
Now I know you are a big Ibanez fan! And I don't have any shops near me to try it out. Closest is 45 min car trip. Which I don't have the time right now.

So I would like your opinion on which guitar to wonder upon. (800 euros = 939 USD budget)
I was aiming https://www.thomann.de/pt/ibanez_rg721fm_ntf.htm?ref=search_rslt_ibanez_331827

Posted by: Todd Simpson Aug 20 2017, 09:49 PM

First off I don't know how I missed this one!!! If I don't give a reply to a Mission right away, feel free to shoot me a personal message in the event that i missed it in my post feed. Sorry for the lag! The good news is that you are really tearing this apart!!!! Let's Debrief!

MEDALS OF HONOR


1.)PLANTED RIGHT HAND: Your right hand stays nice and stead and doesn't drift around which is a very important skill to develop and your doing a fine job of it

2.)GOOD PALM MUTE: As a result of good right hand technique you have a nice mute which is preventing any extra string noise. Another skill which is crucial to develop.

3.)STRING TRAVERSE: Being able to cleanly go between strings and making it sound like you are just playing on a single string is one of the toughest skills and one that many folks really struggle with. You seem to have a really good grasp on it which is great to see!!

It's wonderful to see you getting such a good handle on so many fundamental concepts that are key to success in bootcamp and in playing in general. You really NAILED ITI on this one and you are more than ready for what's ahead!

In other words you just....

LEVELED UP!!!!!!

QUOTE (MonkeyDAthos @ Aug 15 2017, 01:49 PM)

Hi Todd!
I am summer working atm to pay up music school monthly feeds.
I am far from being in my best shape , my arms are full of small stabs from climbing trees and my fingers feel kind of slow and rigid from catching fruit all day.

Still managed to play like 1h of guitar every day.

So here is mission 4, actually this is more of a quick practice session rather than a final take, but seeing I am working with little time I decided to post it.
150 bpms 4 notes per beat ( I think)



Edit: The dream would be 20+bpms, still gotto practice.

Damn my bald spot seems to be getting worse every day RIP genetics.

QUOTE (MonkeyDAthos @ Aug 18 2017, 12:41 PM)

Posted by: MonkeyDAthos Aug 21 2017, 06:44 PM

Makes sense, I will try and look around the used market. I've a friend who is a completely nerd on that kind of stuff. Will try and find something good.


About picking technique, I had a revelation a few days ago, I used to use the bottom of my palm as an anchor for my picking and it worked fine, but I still wanted to reduce the movement of my hand to the minimum, so I started to use my right hand ring finger as an anchor but it was more of a subconsciousness movement rather than me consciously do it.
Was kind a decision of my body, rather than my brain

I still have an hard time using anchor finger while playing in the low strings. I usually have my ring finger anchored in the high E string when alternate picking in the lower E and A. At least that's how I am able to do it on my SG.

Alas I not that comfortable with it yet, BUT I've noticed a lot more control in my picking hand!

Back to practicing!

Posted by: Todd Simpson Aug 24 2017, 05:32 AM

Like I always say, pick from the fingers back, not the elbow forward Picking from the wrist is a good start. Picking from the thumb and finger is even better and then using the wrist when needed. If you anchor now and then, it's not the end of the world. often it's a sign that your hand is tired and needs something to use as ballast. Great to hear you articulating with your fingers first, wrist second and elbow not at all. Congrats!!

Sarge

QUOTE (MonkeyDAthos @ Aug 21 2017, 01:44 PM)

Makes sense, I will try and look around the used market. I've a friend who is a completely nerd on that kind of stuff. Will try and find something good.


About picking technique, I had a revelation a few days ago, I used to use the bottom of my palm as an anchor for my picking and it worked fine, but I still wanted to reduce the movement of my hand to the minimum, so I started to use my right hand ring finger as an anchor but it was more of a subconsciousness movement rather than me consciously do it.
Was kind a decision of my body, rather than my brain

I still have an hard time using anchor finger while playing in the low strings. I usually have my ring finger anchored in the high E string when alternate picking in the lower E and A. At least that's how I am able to do it on my SG.

Alas I not that comfortable with it yet, BUT I've noticed a lot more control in my picking hand!

Back to practicing!

Posted by: MonkeyDAthos Aug 28 2017, 03:40 PM

Still practicing mission 5.

Here's a little take, there is quite a few missed notes.



Still trying to bring it up to 160bpm. (150bpm atm). Will post a final take in a couple of days.

Posted by: Todd Simpson Aug 29 2017, 05:03 AM

This is QUITE GOOD soldier!! As you know I don't have "Speed" requirements, just precision requirements and you are playing in a precise manner which is good to see!! Good control, good hand synch, good string traverse. Barely a missed note in the entire thing and it's NOT an easy bit to play. It does make a great warmup bit!!! It will get your pinky moving and get blood going to your hands.

When you do your final take, I would suggest to try to add some distortion/gain to the signal on your guitar just to see if you are generating any string noise that you don't want. Without any gain is a good way to practice as well, as you can hear each note, but with gain you can see any gaps in your muting that you may not have heard otherwise.

Well played soldier I have no doubt you will badge up at your next Mission Vid!!!

Sarge

QUOTE (MonkeyDAthos @ Aug 28 2017, 10:40 AM)

Posted by: MonkeyDAthos Sep 12 2017, 06:16 PM

For the past 2-3 years I've been using gain around 00:00 o'clock or 01:30, 02:00 o'clock..
So ye I've bumped the gain a bit as you said in the video, also I tried to record it at 170 bpm! I am at my limit so there is probably some weaker parts. ~

Posted by: Todd Simpson Sep 12 2017, 08:02 PM

DUDE!!! I mean SOLDIER!!!! When did this happen!!! You've been holding out on me!! Who knew you were such an insane Shredder? I must say Soldier, I'm impressed with the precision you show here. Not even looking down at the neck most of the time, not wagging the wrist, not picking from the elbow, clean articulate strikes, properly muted. Just flat out WOW. You should BURN through the rest of these and get on with the SECOND CHEVRON Missions!

Let's Debrief!.....

MEDALS OF HONOR

*PRECISION: The one thing that I want you to learn and earn more than ANYTHING is PRECISION. The good news is that you have clearly spent some time in the woodshed perfecting your technique.This will come in very handy when you work on writing your own riffs and solos. You are very near the point where nothing that you can imagine will be beyond your reach to play. As they say "your creative ability should not be limited by your technical ability" Your technical ability is on display here and It's impressive.

SYNCH: Maintaining hand synch at speed can be difficult. It keeps some folks out of bootcamp altogether and others from progressing. It's a pain in the neck until you get the hang of it to be honest. But once you do, the sky is the limit. You sir, have a very good handle on it.

MUTE: Just what I like to see. Staccato style muting. Every note struck is clear and distinct from the previous note. This is only possible when you apply enough pressure to get rid of any unwanted note sustain or string noise. For a lick like this, a planted palm mute is critical. There is no space between the notes, so unless you mute well, it will quickly turn to mush. You muted quite well. Nice!

In short Soldier you just.....


LEVELED UP!!!!!!

QUOTE (MonkeyDAthos @ Sep 12 2017, 01:16 PM)

For the past 2-3 years I've been using gain around 00:00 o'clock or 01:30, 02:00 o'clock..
So ye I've bumped the gain a bit as you said in the video, also I tried to record it at 170 bpm! I am at my limit so there is probably some weaker parts. ~

Posted by: MonkeyDAthos Sep 14 2017, 09:10 PM

Thx for the kind words.
I don't have the nickname of Retrucci for nothing .
Joking of course, I still have a lifetime of mountains to climb . Just trying to suck less than yesterday

Anyways I took inspiration on Mission 6 Pedal Points and created a Thrash with a little smell of tech death riff out of it.

Here's today practice session.



I am still getting used to the shapes, so expect a few missed notes.
As per usual the take is in 70 bpm but the goal will be around 110-120 bpm

Posted by: MonkeyDAthos Sep 16 2017, 09:20 PM

Day 2 of Mission 6.

Man, I really find pedal licks kinda hard. Mainly because I have a hard time keeping that 1 beat in my head.
Usually in shreddy licks, I aim for that 1 beat and let the other fingers fall into place without much thinking, but pedal wise I often lose the track of it.

Plus I tend to tense up in the videos. Especially 90bpm +

Anyways here's a few clips of today session.



Also managed to rise +20bpm these past 2 days. But I fail to play it 100% clean at 90 bpm.


Still a long way before hitting the 110 bpms.

Also added pdf of the lick/riff. If someone viewing the thread wish to try it.



Cheers, Renato.

 Pedal_lick_riff.pdf ( 102.74K ) : 165

Posted by: Todd Simpson Sep 17 2017, 06:10 AM

You look like you have a good handle on the concept but that's not the lick in Mission 6? Take a look at the video on the lesson 6 page and then look at the tablature one more time. The lick happens on just one string at a time. Where did you get the lick you are playing here? I like But it's just not quite the mission. Give it one more look soldier!

Sarge

QUOTE (MonkeyDAthos @ Sep 16 2017, 04:20 PM)

Posted by: MonkeyDAthos Sep 17 2017, 06:34 AM

QUOTE (Todd Simpson @ Sep 17 2017, 06:10 AM)

You look like you have a good handle on the concept but that's not the lick in Mission 6? Take a look at the video on the lesson 6 page and then look at the tablature one more time. The lick happens on just one string at a time. Where did you get the lick you are playing here? I like But it's just not quite the mission. Give it one more look soldier!

Sarge

Posted by: Todd Simpson Sep 18 2017, 05:47 AM

Kudos for creative thinking Soldier!! I liked where you were going with It works as a sort of barred pull off thing. Cool lick!

As long as you are playing the mission in a precise manner I'm a happy guy but if you want to push for a certain bpm that's certainly a noble goal as well. So dig in Soldier!! Let the Battle begin! I look forward to your mission vid! Feel free to post any related vids that you make along the way I've probably taken too many headshots is all. Forward!!!

Sarge

QUOTE (MonkeyDAthos @ Sep 17 2017, 01:34 AM)

I know, I know
I just got inspired on the concept and created this mini workout, Now I feel if I can't play it at the tempo mentioned. I am not worthy of clearing the mission.

BUT rest assured the submission take for examination will have the licks from mission 6.
Just posting those to keep track of myself more than anything. Hope you don't mind.

Posted by: MonkeyDAthos Sep 22 2017, 09:33 AM

Hi, Big Boss Todd.

I managed 110 bpms! A bit sloppy, but I am finally getting comfortable at that tempo
At least in the first part of the lick. (similar to exercise 1 - mission 6)



So far I am extremely happy with the results. My overall picking and coordination feels a lot smoother, allowing the notes to sound more confident and fuller! So thank you very much.

I don't know if I will be able to post the final take this following week. I've enrolled in a Jazz music school and start in 3 days.
Still have to figure out the transportation and routes, you see the school is in Lisbon and I am a simple country folk, so It kind feels really overwhelming plus there's a no-stop hurricane in my stomach.

Renato.

Posted by: Todd Simpson Sep 22 2017, 09:01 PM

Progress is important in bootcamp so I'd say forget about pushing the speed and just focus on posting one take that is precise no matter how slow you have to play it so that you can move forward to the next Mission. You can always keep doing whatever you like at whatever speed with this lick. Just don't let it get you stuck and prevent you from getting on with what's next soldier!!

Sarge

QUOTE (MonkeyDAthos @ Sep 22 2017, 04:33 AM)

Hi, Big Boss Todd.

I managed 110 bpms! A bit sloppy, but I am finally getting comfortable at that tempo
At least in the first part of the lick. (similar to exercise 1 - mission 6)



So far I am extremely happy with the results. My overall picking and coordination feels a lot smoother, allowing the notes to sound more confident and fuller! So thank you very much.

I don't know if I will be able to post the final take this following week. I've enrolled in a Jazz music school and start in 3 days.
Still have to figure out the transportation and routes, you see the school is in Lisbon and I am a simple country folk, so It kind feels really overwhelming plus there's a no-stop hurricane in my stomach.

Renato.

Posted by: Todd Simpson Oct 16 2017, 08:08 PM

Talking to the Boss now, looks like we may be able to work something out so I"ll let you know asap

Todd

Posted by: MonkeyDAthos Aug 2 2018, 08:39 PM

I've been really on the downside this past 2 weeks.
Still recovering, but I feel I can only go up to 70% of current abilities.

Still I decided to try and do some stuff today.
Edit: sorry managed to screw up the video again... Do you know of any software that allows you to edit it and fix it on your android.
Rather than having to re do videos.

Posted by: Todd Simpson Aug 2 2018, 09:36 PM

Here are the best 10 video editing apps for android.https://fossbytes.com/best-android-video-editor-apps/

On to the Missions!!

QUESTION: Are you playing with the metronome when you record? I ask because the second mission sounds like the metronome was added later as your playing doesn't seem connected to it? I had a submission once where someone added the Metronome in post production which sorta misses the entire point of playing with a metronome. The metronome is there so that one can count the clicks and play along and be "in time". Adding it later defeats the purpose. If it wasn't added later, then the second Mission may be being played a bit above your level as it is disconnected from the time being clicked by the metronome. It's played well! Just not connected at all to the clicks. Anyhoo!!
MEDALS OF HONOR

*PICKING PRECISION: Very solid picking work here. Strikes are clean and precise. Eve on the second mission, the picking is quite good.
*MUTING IS ON POINT: Without a good mute, both of these get really noisey. You have a very firm control over the palm mute which is great!!
*AGGRESSION: The second mission has a very aggressive style indeed.

The only problem is that the second one sounds like it's recorded without a metronome and the clicks were added later. Let me know whats going on there. If you were trying to play with the clicks, you may need to slow down in the next mission to be closer to the click track. Given how well you played the bit, I see no need to have you do it again. Move on to the next mission and just make sure to play with the click and if you lose track, just slow down a pinch You just ... LEVELED UP!!!
Onward!!!!

QUOTE (MonkeyDAthos @ Aug 2 2018, 03:39 PM)

I've been really on the downside this past 2 weeks.
Still recovering, but I feel I can only go up to 70% of current abilities.

Still I decided to try and do some stuff today.
Edit: sorry managed to screw up the video again... Do you know of any software that allows you to edit it and fix it on your android.
Rather than having to re do videos.

Posted by: MonkeyDAthos Aug 2 2018, 09:53 PM

The metronome sound was coming out of my smartphone as I hit record. There isn't any post production.

I do agree i derailed in the second mission.
On that type of static pedal riff especially on higher tempos I tend to lose sight where the 1 beat lands. So I was kind trying to figure by ear rather than actually count it.

Is Something I'll have to keep practicing.

Posted by: Todd Simpson Aug 3 2018, 05:24 PM

You played both quite well. The second one you really burned it up!! It was played very evenly, just not connected to the click is all. But it was played very well so you PASS!!! I'd say just keep an ear on the click in the next mission if you play it brisk. Plenty good enough though. You clearly can play both of those bits. Time for the next one!!

Todd

QUOTE (MonkeyDAthos @ Aug 2 2018, 04:53 PM)

Posted by: MonkeyDAthos Sep 2 2018, 09:28 PM

Yo Todd.
Just a little update.
Unfortunately I haven't been able to play guitar for the past 3 weeks, even my studies of music theory and leaning some jazz tunes have been on a halt.
Mainly due to my current job. From climbing trees and ladders all day to carrying dozens of fruit baskets, my fingers, well my hands have become big callus, they feel hella clunky. Plus at 6 am I am already working and when I get home all I want is to rest.
Picked up the guitar today and damn my abilities are like 40% of what they sure to be.

I am near the end though just 2 more weeks of grinding!
Then I will update some missions. And hopefully even bring a new Axe.

Posted by: Todd Simpson Sep 3 2018, 09:56 PM

Sounds Rugged soldier!! I hope it's over so quickly that you don't even notice it go by! It does sound really rough. Life can certainly get in the way. It will all be worth it when you are sporting a new spiff axe!! Look forward to seeing on the field of Battle again Soldier!!!
Sarge

QUOTE (MonkeyDAthos @ Sep 2 2018, 04:28 PM)

Yo Todd.
Just a little update.
Unfortunately I haven't been able to play guitar for the past 3 weeks, even my studies of music theory and leaning some jazz tunes have been on a halt.
Mainly due to my current job. From climbing trees and ladders all day to carrying dozens of fruit baskets, my fingers, well my hands have become big callus, they feel hella clunky. Plus at 6 am I am already working and when I get home all I want is to rest.
Picked up the guitar today and damn my abilities are like 40% of what they sure to be.

I am near the end though just 2 more weeks of grinding!
Then I will update some missions. And hopefully even bring a new Axe.

Posted by: MonkeyDAthos Oct 11 2018, 06:20 PM

Managed to sneak a few minutes today.

Posted by: Todd Simpson Oct 12 2018, 01:47 AM

Well Fought Soldier!! This is exactly what I'm looking for in this Mission. You not only play it well, but you shift around the fret board and don't miss a beat. keep this up Soldier!!! You've got a good thing going!!! Let's Debrief!!
MEDALS OF HONOR

PICKING PRECISION Your Picking is spot on here. Each strike is clean, no bleed, no bad strikes. This is great technique soldier. SCORE!!

SYNCH TO DIE FOR Hand Synch is Solid as a rock. It's one of the hardest things to get right and it's crucial for what lies ahead. DOUBLE SCORE!!
FRET TRAVERSE Not only did you play the bit well, but you marched it all around the fret board without slipping up once. You've got a very good command of technique going on Soldier!! TRIPLE SCORE!!
In other words you just...
LEVELED UP!!!

QUOTE (MonkeyDAthos @ Oct 11 2018, 01:20 PM)

Posted by: MonkeyDAthos Oct 12 2018, 06:15 PM

I think I can bump it up to 130 bpm. But after a few runs tension starts to build up. So I decided to play it at a tempo where I am relaxed and in control.

Posted by: Todd Simpson Oct 12 2018, 06:43 PM

WELL FOUGHT SOLDIER!!! I can tell that you have been spending some time on the firing range!! These foundational techniques have to be brought to heel before you can progress to the later Missions and you are doing a great job of getting these techniques under control. That's the real purpose of all of these lessons, to help you gain precision and control so that when you unleash yourself on a guitar solo, you are not held back by a lack of technical ability. You are well on your way! Let's Debrief!!!
MEDALS OF HONOR

*PRECISION KILLS: These Missions are all about precision. I'm glad that you used the vid where you are keepign everything under control. To gain a few bpm in speed but lose control is no victory. One can only play as briskly as one can play while in full control. It's important to push the edge, to lose control. To go beyond what one is capable of doing to prepare the brain for what's to come. However, for the videos that you turn in as Missions to be Debriefed, it's always best to pick one that shows you in full control of every note as that shows where you really are at the time of the recording. So keep pushing the edge, and keep recording the bits that show you in full command of your Soldiers/Fingers!

*SYNCH OR SWIM: Hand Synch is CRUCIAL in shredding and playing in general. Especially on a lick like this. If you lose synch, the entire thing falls apart and you have to start over. It's very easy to hear if synch gets lost as there is no gap between notes and thus no room to recover. It's like running across the tips of swords. One wrong footing, and it's lost. The good news is you never lost a step.


*ON THE MARCH: Not only did you play the lick with control and precision, you marched it up and down the neck with grace and never missed a beat. Being able to move about on the fretboard is yet another crucial skill that will serve you well going forward.
You have a great momentum building here Soldier, keep it up!!! These technical abilities are a perishable skill, like sword fighting, it's something that needs to be practiced in order to be kept and improved upon. You are more than ready for what's next. You just...
LEVELED UP!!!

QUOTE (MonkeyDAthos @ Oct 12 2018, 01:15 PM)

Posted by: MonkeyDAthos Oct 25 2018, 07:52 PM

Managed to sneak another few minutes today.


I screw up in the last run
This guitar went through a full setup. The action came bit lower than I am used to. But nothing that practice wont solve

Posted by: Todd Simpson Oct 25 2018, 08:51 PM

NICE!!! This is NOT an easy lick. There are plenty of spots that the hand wants to sort of skip or freeze or drag or rush just due to how it's built. You keep the entire thing running lick clock work!!! Let's Debrief!!!
MEDALS OF HONOR

*GRACE UNDER PRESSURE: You are playing this at full clip. I did not expect this level of precision/speed to be honest. This lick is a bit of a finger twister and folks often have to slow down quite a bit to play it cleanly. You rip in at full gallop and still keep it high and tight. Nice!
*SYNCH OR SWIM: Hand synch is crucial here. If you lose synch, even for one beat, one note, it will stick out like a sore thumb. You'll have to start over. The good news is that you don't miss a single note the entire time. Super Nice!!
*PICKING PRECISION: Precise strikes are critical here. Also, since it's non stop string traverse, there are ample chances to miss a single strike, to hit the wrong string, etc. Nope!!! You have strong, clean strikes the entire time. Triple Nice!!!
This is a capstone lesson in the series to test your hands to see if synch/picking/muting/traverse are all up to speed. Yup!! All of the above are up to snuff and well beyond what I expected!! You have built great momentum, keep it up!!!! You just..
LEVELED UP!!!!

QUOTE (MonkeyDAthos @ Oct 25 2018, 02:52 PM)

Managed to sneak another few minutes today.


I screw up in the last run
This guitar went through a full setup. The action came bit lower than I am used to. But nothing that practice wont solve

Posted by: MonkeyDAthos Nov 7 2019, 01:04 AM

Hey Todd how have you been.
Unfortunately the head stock of my old trusty epiphone broke.
So I got my hands on a strat (american pro séries)
I ve tried alot of guitars even some fancy high end ibanez AZ and rgs.
But I Kinda fell in love with this neck profile. is super comfy.

Well, time to take some rust off my fingers.

Posted by: Todd Simpson Nov 7 2019, 03:40 AM

WELCOME BACK SOLDIER!!! It's great to see you back in the fight!!! Nice Axe!! It looks like you have not lost a thing and in fact have become a better player since your last Mission!! Well done on using the PINKY On these and resisting the urge to use the first three fingers. Also, great mute and overall technique. Let's Debrief!!!

MEDALS OF HONOR

LOOPY: I give out a LOT of licks that work as "Looped Licks". Part of what I'm trying to teach you is Playing like a Robot in order to Shred Like a God. Paul Gilbert is a good example of putting loops of a given lick to good use. It's all about being able to play with consistency which you do quite well!

NON STOP TRAVERSE: Second thing I want to see on this Mission is your TRAVERSE skills. As with a few others, this lick traverses strings and frets non stop. Partially to build endurance, partially to get your hands accustomed to playing long sequences of notes. You KILLED IT!!

ARTICULATION: Lastly this is a chance for me to see your pick articulation. I'm looking to make sure you are not picking from the elbow or playing to stiff. You have great articulation here!

You've got this down pat Soldier!! You are ready for what's next!!!

You just...


LEVELED UP!!!!

QUOTE (MonkeyDAthos @ Nov 6 2019, 08:04 PM)

Posted by: MonkeyDAthos Nov 16 2019, 11:34 PM

The hardest part for me with this kind of lick, its not a physical thing but rather hearing the subdivisions. Especialy after 170+bpms.
I ve tried really hard to focus on the first beat at let the Rest fall into place. But I still get lost sometimes.

Posted by: Todd Simpson Nov 17 2019, 01:22 AM

I must say I'm impressed Soldier!! I'm just looking to see you have the pattern and picking in a steady fashion. Instead you are not only playing it solid but at full clip as as well. This is NOT an easy one as it traverses down the fret board the entire time. Never stops til the open string, so you have to synch your picking with the left hand movement and move just ahead in time so that you can fret when you need to pick strike. Nice. It's about letting our left hand go ahead and stick the landing so your pick hand is read when needed.

Let's Debrief!!

MEDALS OF HONOR

ALT PICK OF DESTINY: The first thing I"m looking at is your alt picking. Alternate Picking is at the core of this lick. Without good alt picking technique, this lick won't work. It's the kind of thing you just cant play with all downstrokes and have it work well. Nice!!
TRAVERSAL OF FORTUNE: Secondly I want to see you traverse your left hand with Non stop fret traverse. You gotta slide a bit to make this work and you slide quite well!!!

PINKY TIME: Last, I wanna see Good use of the pinky here! You never skimp on Pinky Power. Well played.

You kicked the door in Soldier! You just..
LEVELED UP!!!!

QUOTE (MonkeyDAthos @ Nov 16 2019, 06:34 PM)

Posted by: MonkeyDAthos Nov 24 2019, 07:26 PM

Mission 13 reporting in.
I am a bit on the down side Sarge.
Still recoverying from a cold.
But I rather keep a some how weekely upload of missions, than waiting until I am 100% just to do some extra 20 bpms.

Posted by: Todd Simpson Nov 25 2019, 07:35 AM

I applaud you pushing through the pain Soldier!!!! Sometimes, life tries to get in the way of your progress on the field of Battle. Don't let it!!! You will be glad you pushed through and didn't give in to the forces of chance/sickness/etc. Let's Debrief!!!
MEDALS OF HONOR
*TACTICAL PRECISION: First thing I look for on this is precision. Each strike should be matched to a fretted note. BAM like clockwork. Very well done on pick strikes and fretting. Without a high degree of precision, this lick just falls apart.

*STEADY PACE: Second thing I wanna see if a smooth steady pace. You didn't
rush, didn't lag. Being able to play at a steady pace and not rush the
easy bits and then drag the difficult bits is crucial to being a well
rounded player. Well done!

*QUIET AS DEATH: Lastly I dont' wanna hear string noise on this. It's not easy since this is non stop string traverse. Not a problem here! Silent as the grave!

This lick is crucial. It's called an INVERSION. It's the basis for a
great deal of what you will be doing here in bootcamp. It's complex. It
throws some folks off so bad that they give up right here on this
mission. Not You!!! Despite being under the weather, you pushed
through!!
Well fought Soldier! You just..
LEVELED UP!!!

QUOTE (MonkeyDAthos @ Nov 24 2019, 02:26 PM)

Posted by: MonkeyDAthos Dec 9 2019, 04:15 AM

Hey Todd, just letting you know that I am taking a quick break.
I've been having some really annoying back and shoulder blade pain.
I think it was probably work related. Since I spend a lot of hours either always standing up or with a bad posture cleaning stuff up.
Gonna check with a doctor and hopefully will be able to return to shredding soon.

Posted by: MonkeyDAthos Dec 13 2019, 10:04 PM

A bit rusty and at least for me open string licks are really hard


So far my back pain is way better, its still here but to a less extend.
I feel it more when I am picking on the A string and low É string. I start to crank up some tension. And lock up thr miscles.
As you probably can see in the video towards the end.

Already have a date with an osteopath, but only in january.

Posted by: Todd Simpson Dec 14 2019, 06:11 AM

This is really well played. Nice and clean. It's important to stay loose, even when playing at speed. If you tense up you can actually injure yourself over time. So even when playing fast try to take note of your muscles and force them to relax. Once way to help is to use a bit lighter strike technique. The Zen of Speed Picking
Let's Review!
MEDALS OF HONOR

*PICKING-Firstly I want to see clean picking! This is all about single string picking technique. Being able to alternate pick on a single string without getting the pick caught, losing track of the strike pattern, etc. You did a great job on picking this one.

*TIMING-Secondly I wanna see tight timing. If the timing is off at all, it sound very obvious. That's why this lick is structured as it is. The good news is your timing is spot on and you played this very well.

*DIFFERENT STRINGS-Lastly I wanna see smooth traverse. Being able to pull this lick off on different string shows that you can traverse to new strings without losing control of your technique. Well done.
In short, you krushed it!! You just...
LEVELED UP!!

QUOTE (MonkeyDAthos @ Dec 13 2019, 05:04 PM)

Posted by: MonkeyDAthos Dec 18 2019, 05:33 PM

Hey Sarge.
I have a question regardless mission 15. Mainly on how you want me to pick the lick.
Do you want me to use eco picking in the strings change and legato on the following notes or am i understand ing it wrong.
Cheers

Posted by: Todd Simpson Dec 19 2019, 05:04 AM

Im going to re do the tablature on this one to make it more clear. As this one is about Econ, I want you to try to pick the bit where you are ascending to the higher string using two down strokes. This one was created before I began using guitar pro which is why there is no guitar pro file I'm going to create a guitar pro file and new tab complete with pick notation. Good catch Soldier!!
Here is the guitar pro file and pick notated tab. Pick every note! no legato

 15fix.gp5 ( 1.68K ) : 98




Sarge

QUOTE (MonkeyDAthos @ Dec 18 2019, 12:33 PM)

Posted by: MonkeyDAthos Jan 10 2020, 10:21 PM

Ive only practiced sweeps/eco picking for like a week in my whole life.
Só this one was a bit trick.

Posted by: Todd Simpson Jan 11 2020, 07:29 AM

This is a great drill for getting introduced to sweeping since it's really just an econ picking type lick. Sweeping is just econ over more than two strings. You've got good reach on this and great pinky work! I love your mod at the end too! Let's Debrief!

QUOTE (MonkeyDAthos @ Jan 10 2020, 05:21 PM)

Posted by: MonkeyDAthos Jun 3 2020, 06:24 PM

Hi Todd!
Sorry to have disappeared. I've actually been working and trying to save up money to buy a desktop, audio interface and what not.

You know, to try get more involve with the community. Collabs, lessons etc.

And so I saved up enough and built a modest pc.
Went with Ryzen 5 3600x for CPU (managed to get a brand new one 15% off)
Got a GTX 1660 for some gaming at the side
Also 32 gb of ram of DDR4-3200MHz.
For the main specs.
Not really a high-high end pc. But can run for example lot of last year AAA games in high/ultra settings. No problem.

Also just finished order a scarlett 2i2 3gen for interface. It should arrive in a couple of days.
Althought for audio monitores, well might have to wait a bit more down the road.


But looking foward to resume the bootcamp!

Posted by: Todd Simpson Jun 4 2020, 05:29 AM

Spiff upgrade! Super congrats!!! Should be good for games and super good for music for many years to come. Run all the VST and plugins you want!!

Looking forward to your next Bootcamp Mission Soldier!!

Sarge



[moce quote name='MonkeyDAthos' date='Jun 3 2020, 01:24 PM' post='778011']
Hi Todd!
Sorry to have disappeared. I've actually been working and trying to save up money to buy a desktop, audio interface and what not.

You know, to try get more involve with the community. Collabs, lessons etc.

And so I saved up enough and built a modest pc.
Went with Ryzen 5 3600x for CPU (managed to get a brand new one 15% off)
Got a GTX 1660 for some gaming at the side
Also 32 gb of ram of DDR4-3200MHz.
For the main specs.
Not really a high-high end pc. But can run for example lot of last year AAA games in high/ultra settings. No problem.

Also just finished order a scarlett 2i2 3gen for interface. It should arrive in a couple of days.
Althought for audio monitores, well might have to wait a bit more down the road.


But looking foward to resume the bootcamp!
[/quote]

Posted by: Todd Simpson Jun 6 2020, 01:19 AM

Mission 16 is NON STOP traverse. This will be a bit of a struggle at first, but it's exactly what the doctor ordered. This will help synch up your hands and get things moving in the right direction! In the video demo, I randomly pick different places to play it on the fretboard. You only have to play it once, in one place for the Mission. However, feel free to improvise!

Posted by: MonkeyDAthos Jun 26 2020, 08:04 PM

(125bpm)
I find economy picking to be quite the pain in the butt
Not quite sure if the audio and video are 100% in synch.

PS: hope you dont mind if I dont use like a super heavy gain tone.

Posted by: Todd Simpson Jun 27 2020, 03:21 AM

NICE!! You are not the only one Soldier. Econ Picking is a HUGE pain no matter how you slice it. It's such a pain that some players simply do no do it at all. E.G. Paul Gilbert. One can get by without it, however, it can be a very handy technique to have as part of ones bag of tricks. There are some licks that are just flat out awkward when played as alt pick instead of Econ. Being able to adapt between econ and alt picking, gives your hand the flexibility to play just about anything.

This Drill is based loosely on the Guitar Battle in "CROSS ROADS" as mentioned which is why it has a bit of a neo classical vibe. It needs to be played and picked very smoothly or it just doesn't work. You play as smooth as glass here Soldier! let's Debrief!!!

MEDALS OF HONOR

*SOLID MUTE: First think I'm looking for on this Mission is your Palm Mute. A weak mute means tons of string noise since this thing changes strings non stop. It's a skill being able to mute while picking. You've got a good handle on on it. NICE!!!

*SYNCH OR SWIM: This doesn't stop the entire time and and there are not gaps to reset the hand. So you gotta keep tight hand synch. Miss it by just a pinch, and it falls apart. Your synch is quite good. SCORE!!!


*ARTICULATION: Lastly I'm looking at your pick articulation. Are you wagging the hand to far and wide? Are you digging in to far on each strike? NO! You are not. You have very good pick articulation and you are not wagging to far. It's under control and not over committing to any single pick strike which means nice smooth picking. DOUBLE SCORE!!

Bottom line, you got this sorted. It's a tricky bit to be sure, but you nailed it. I'm looking forward to your next Mission Soldier!!!

You just..

LEVELED UP!!!

]

QUOTE (MonkeyDAthos @ Jun 26 2020, 03:04 PM)

(125bpm)
I find economy picking to be quite the pain in the butt
Not quite sure if the audio and video are 100% in synch.

PS: hope you dont mind if I dont use like a super heavy gain tone.

Posted by: MonkeyDAthos Jun 29 2020, 06:06 PM

Quick update on mission 17.


This one is at 75 bpm.
I am trying to also work on my timing, so I have the click on every 8 notes or at beginnig of every 32nd group.

Hopefully wanna bump up another 25 bpms before posting final take.
But will be happy if I can managed + 15bpms by the end of the week

The toughest part for me is when you start ascending on the Low E and A string. So will probably loop that part for a bit.

Posted by: Todd Simpson Jul 2 2020, 03:38 AM

Doing great Soldier!!! This one is picked just like you are doing. Later one, once you get really comfy with the pattern, you can start using pull offs and hammer ons so that you dont have to pick every note. This allows for much great speed. For now, focus on that picking just like you are doing!!

Sarge

QUOTE (MonkeyDAthos @ Jun 29 2020, 01:06 PM)