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GMC Forum _ Todd Simpson _ Yoncopin's Bootcamp
Posted by: Todd Simpson Jun 21 2016, 08:39 PM
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!
THE MISSION
1.)Your mission is to go all the way back to the very start. The base of the mountain.
LESSON 1. http://bitly.com/gmclesson1
Which you will play SLOWWWWWWLLY, very SLOWWWLLLLYYYY until you master it at a crawl (As You'll Do With Each Mission, and focus on left hand FORM! Make it SUPER PERFECT!). Speed it up bit by bit until you feel your ready to take it to WAR (Any speed, it's up to you) Shoot a video of you playing the bit along with a METRONOME or DRUM click in the background so that I can hear if your on beat or not, and embed it as a post it as a reply to this post. I'll then offer a constructive and brutally honest critique.
THE AFTERMATH
Upon nailing the crap out of lesson one, and playing it a clean as a freshly waxed floor, you will be given your first insignia of Rank in BOOTCAMP!
After that proceed to MISSION #2. Here is a link to all of the missions. All 400+ of them. Our highest ranking Soldier is currently at LEVEL 30.
http://bit.ly/twtgmc
Here is the link to your own PRIVATE HOUSE OF PAIN!...Er I mean.. SHRED!
http://bit.ly/yoncopinsbootcamp
Practice!
Todd
Posted by: yoncopin Jun 21 2016, 09:12 PM
Awesome, I've been looking forward to this all day! Here's Lesson 1:
and Lesson 2!
Posted by: Todd Simpson Jun 21 2016, 11:58 PM
CONGRATS SOLDIER!!!! These are you FIRST MISSIONS and you KILLED THEM!!!!! Let's debrief...
Some really nice playing here.
MEDALS OF HONOR
1.)Maintained splendid palm mute / right hand control in every vid.
2.)Maintained tight and precise picking in every vid
3.)Maintained control of each strike and it's timing
In short, you made short work of these missions and showed that you are more than ready for what awaits you!!!! Beware, these get harder as you go. But based on your work here I think you have nothing to fear!
Congrats Soldier, you just ...
LEVELED UP!!
and Lesson 2!
Posted by: yoncopin Jun 22 2016, 01:18 PM
Oh man, the leveling up is going to be addictive. I started last night on lesson 3 and it's more difficult, but doable at near 120bpm. I know you said that speed doesn't matter, but is that just for these early lessons? I assume at some point speed has to matter if I want to ever shred, right?
Posted by: Todd Simpson Jun 23 2016, 02:28 AM
Leveling up can certainly be a great motivator 
The ranking CHAMP is GMCer FZALFA. Whoever is the top kick, gets a special ornamentation for their badge just like HIGHLANDER, "THERE CAN BE ONLY ONE"! Good news is you are on pace to catch him!!!
As far as SPEED goes, always remember.
SPEED IS A BYPRODUCT OF PRECISION.
The more precision you attain, the more you will notice that your speed just sorta happens. It is, after all, a byproduct, not a primary result. Precision is the result of ardent practice, and these lessons are built entirely to help you work on your precision. So don't worry about playing fast, in any lesson, worry about playing clean. No extra string noise, every note on the beat and in time, every note as written in the MISSION.
After that, you will be shocked at how quickly speed just starts to happen.
Todd
Posted by: yoncopin Jun 23 2016, 09:10 PM
Lesson 3 @130bpm
Posted by: Todd Simpson Jun 24 2016, 01:27 AM
CONGRATS SOLDIER!!!! yet again, you KILLED IT!!!!! Let's debrief...
Very nicely done soldier. This is exactly what I was looking for Stick a fork in it, it's done! I did notice you fell off the horse right near the end of the vid, but after playing with precision on this lick for nearly a solid minute, I think it can be overlooked.
You showed very solid technique here despite not using much gain. Sometimes folks will go a bit heavy on gain to hide bits and smooth out the rough patches. An old salt like me can always hear the wonky bit though Your timing is very good throughout. I think you are more than ready for what's next. Very soon, I'm going to start asking for "MULTIPICKING" which is picking each note in a given drill twice or more, instead of once. But we will get there in a bit. For now.....
MEDALS OF HONOR
1.)Solid Hand Synch
2.)Tight right hand control
3.)good planted palm mute
Congrats Soldier, you just ...
LEVELED UP!!
Posted by: yoncopin Jun 24 2016, 04:08 PM
Awesome! I'm already on the next one I did fall off at the end, my mind wandered and I lost focus. I find that's really easy to do when playing these repeating exercises, especially when nerves/stiffness crop up in recording. I kinda figured the same thing you did, I demonstrated I was capable of playing the lick "properly" for enough time to submit it. Thanks for taking the time to give me feedback In Lesson 4 should I still be palm muting?
Posted by: yoncopin Jun 24 2016, 07:47 PM
and here's Lesson 4!
Posted by: Todd Simpson Jun 25 2016, 11:28 PM
CONGRATS SOLDIER!!!! You are ripping it up!! Keep this up and you'll be TOP KICK in no time! Let's debrief!....
MEDALS OF HONOR
1.)Precise Pick Control
2.)Good Palm Mute
3.)Aggressive style and approach
This is not an easy lick and you kept solid pace the entire way up and down the neck. Your alternate picking is quite good and your traverse (moving between strings) is quite good as well. That's part of what makes this lick tough. Soldier, you nailed it!!!
Congrats Soldier, you just ...
LEVELED UP!!
Posted by: yoncopin Jun 26 2016, 05:58 PM
Thanks Todd! Here's lesson 5 @170bpm
Posted by: Todd Simpson Jun 27 2016, 01:54 AM
CONGRATS SOLDIER!!!! You are knocking em down!!!!
MEDALS OF HONOR
1.)Precise picking control
2.)Tight palm mute
3.)Precise use of PINKY POWER!!!
I'm glad to see you using your PINKY here soldier. It's easy to forget that the smallest finger often needs the most work!!! Your timing is good, your technique is solid, you keep it going all the way up and down the neck. You do slip off just a bit at the very end, but prior to that it's a great run. In other words...
Congrats Soldier, you just ...
LEVELED UP!!
Posted by: yoncopin Jul 2 2016, 09:17 PM
Here's Lesson 6 @ 200bpm. I got a bit behind schedule, had major computer issues for a bit there.
Posted by: Todd Simpson Jul 3 2016, 12:15 AM
Welcome back to the fight!! CONGRATS SOLDIER!!!! Your hard work is continuing to pay off!!!!!
MEDALS OF HONOR
1.)Tight hand synch
2.)Smooth looping of the lick
3.)Precise pick control
Now this is what I'm talking about!! You nailed the mission and then nailed it on DOUBLE PICKING!! Well played and well fought soldier!!! You are ready for the next mission!!!
Congrats Soldier, you just ...
LEVELED UP!!
Posted by: yoncopin Jul 3 2016, 01:28 AM
Thanks! It's a 2000 Ibanez RG570 w/ Dimarzio Air Norton and Steve's Special pickups.
Posted by: Todd Simpson Jul 3 2016, 06:38 AM
NICE!!! An RG570 eh? Very spiff indeed. Those are some of my fave guitars ever built. Have you had it long? The original wizard neck is a think of beauty imho My fave guitar is currently an RG560 which is along the same lines and MIJ, just has two single coils and a humbucker in the bridge. Mine is still bone stock as I like the alnico humbucker.
Its the red one behind the RG7620 
Posted by: yoncopin Jul 3 2016, 12:53 PM
Yes you have quite an awesome collection! I've had it about six months. I got it in its current form off eBay for about $400, I wanted a slightly newer HSH to complement my 1989 RG760. The RG570 is MIJ as well. Sometimes I'm really into the Ibanezes and sometimes I'm really into the Fenders. It's great to be fortunate enough to have a variety . I used this https://www.guitarmasterclass.net/wiki/index.php/Ibanez_guitar_buying_guide to help pick it out.
Posted by: yoncopin Jul 4 2016, 09:52 PM
Alright, here's Lesson 7
Posted by: Todd Simpson Jul 4 2016, 11:48 PM
That Ibby reference is WONDERFUL. It really breaks it down in practical terms. Everything in it is spot on IMHO You have some seriously nice Ibby's my man!!! I can appreciate that 
I have two nice ibby's (RG560 and RG7620 both mij) but those are probably the only ones I"ll ever have as they are just to darn pricey anymore. Seems like everyone is trying to buy the old Ibbys!! Not long ago you could get an RG560 for $300 or so (that's what I paid) now it's sometimes double that. Uggh!!! I've resorted to buying newer ibby's like the XPT700 and XPT750. I"m keeping the XPt750, it feels a pinch faster and the neck is a pinch thinner and it's got different pickups (D activator X). I also just bought another RGT42FM. I sold the last one and then started to miss it. So I figured I"d get another. Loved that guitar. Indonesian, but still played very well.
Anyhoo, enough of my Ibby fetish, on to the DEBRIEF!!!!!
CONGRATS SOLDIER!!!! You are seriuously KILLING IT!!!!
MEDALS OF HONOR
1.)PINKY POWER!!! Using the pinky to great effect and with precision!
2.)Tight Hand Synch! Righ/Left Synch is spot on and solid tracking with the metronome.
3.)Solid Palm Mute!! No string noise!!!
You did a great job on this. It's a bit of a confusing lick when you repeat it. Some folks get twisted up in it. You seemed to sail straight through!! Nice I'm sure you had a few passes that were rough, everyone does, but by the time you hit record, BINGO!!!
Congrats Soldier, you just ...
LEVELED UP!!
Posted by: yoncopin Jul 8 2016, 01:38 AM
Thank you for the nice comments on my guitars and playing Makes me feel like I'm doing something right
I tried to push the speed on this one, here's Lesson 8 @ 210bpm
Posted by: yoncopin Jul 9 2016, 12:56 AM
So looking to lesson 9, am I supposed to wait to submit a take until I can do quarter notes at 240bpm? Is that the requirement for passing? That seems insanely fast to me.
Posted by: Todd Simpson Jul 9 2016, 10:39 PM
There are no speed requirements ever in bootcamp. Ever.
You can work at any speed you feel comfy working at. The entire point is to play with precision so as long as you are playing Mission 9 in a precise fashion, the speed of play is entirely up to you. I sometimes do video demos displaying what a mission "should" sound like at various speeds. You don't have to join me in playing them that fast, it's just a demo after all
I just now went back and edited the lesson to remove any reference to metronome speeds to shoot for. Eventually, at some point in your playing you will be playing bits like this with precision well past 240bpm. For now, don't worry about that at all. Just play the mission with precision and find your own speed. As precision increases speed is a byproduct. So focus on precision
Sarge
Posted by: yoncopin Jul 10 2016, 01:34 AM
Ok, got it How did I do on Lesson 8?
Posted by: Todd Simpson Jul 10 2016, 05:11 AM
How could I forget 8!!!! Thanks for posting the other part of that vid Onwards to the Critique!
CONGRATS SOLDIER!!!! Yet again you have SLAIN THE DRAGON!! I'm guessing you are starting to see some improvements your other playing as well? You are keeping a very tight hold on your technique which is never sloppy or lose. Everything nice and tight!! Let's Debrief!
MEDALS OF HONOR
1.)Tight Picking at each point on the neck
2.)Right and left hand TALKING as they should be!!!
3.)PLANTED right hand keeping noise at bay.
You continue to display very solid technique and a really fine grasp of the fundamentals. You are ready for what awaits!!!
Congrats Soldier, you just ...
LEVELED UP!!
How did I do on Lesson 8?Posted by: Todd Simpson Jul 13 2016, 09:50 PM
How is lesson 9 coming? Remember, any speed of play is fine. As long as you play with precision
Sarge
How did I do on Lesson 8?Posted by: yoncopin Jul 14 2016, 01:44 AM
Ask and ye shall receive I was recording my REC take for https://www.guitarmasterclass.net/guitar_forum/index.php?showtopic=57224&b=1&st=0&p=0&#entry0 last night, so this had to wait a day
Sarge
Posted by: Todd Simpson Jul 15 2016, 04:10 AM
CONGRATS SOLDIER!!!! Some very spiff shredding there to be sure. Your technique is tighter and more controlled every time you put up a Mission!! Let's debrief!
MEDALS OF HONOR
1.)Spot on right/left hand synch!
2.)Military Grade Alternate Picking!
3.)Solid Palm mute!
I know this is a confusing bit to play. That's why it's here. These are going to continue to get tougher as you go. It's great to see you ripping through them!!! You get your SECOND CHEVRON (Stripe) on your Mission Badge at LEVEL 12. You are knocking on the door!!! Keep it up!!
Congrats Soldier, you just ...
LEVELED UP!!
I was recording my REC take for https://www.guitarmasterclass.net/guitar_forum/index.php?showtopic=57224&b=1&st=0&p=0&#entry0 last night, so this had to wait a day Posted by: yoncopin Jul 19 2016, 09:57 PM
I tried to record a vid on the iPad but it didn't get the processed sound or metronome. I thought I'd post it anyway, Lesson 10 at 120bpm.
Posted by: Todd Simpson Jul 19 2016, 11:39 PM
Well Fought Soldier!!!! Now you are walking the PATH OF BLOOD!!!! Some very spiff playing there to be sure. Your technique is tighter and more controlled with each Mission. Let's debrief!
MEDALS OF HONOR
1.)TIGHT right/left hand synch!
2.)Military Grade Alternate Picking!
3.)Rock Solid Palm mute!
You are displaying great control and great technique on these missions. This will serve you well as the mission get more and more complex. This one is a bit of a finger twister and you were spot on. I ran it against a metronome and you did quite well!! Very good use of the PINKY also
Congrats Soldier, you just ..
LEVELED UP!!!!!!
Posted by: Todd Simpson Jul 22 2016, 07:22 PM
MISSION 11 AWAITS SOLDIER!!! Let me know if you have any questions!!!
Sarge
Posted by: yoncopin Jul 24 2016, 07:18 PM
Back from the beach, everything going fine so far on Lesson 11. I have the pattern down, but can't practice it as long because of the wide stretch. My hand gets tired quicker and I don't want to push it too far. The tricky bit is ascending the pattern because you're leading with the pinky, which isn't as accurate for me. I'll have it soon
Posted by: Todd Simpson Jul 25 2016, 02:07 AM
BINGO!!!!! The leading pinky is often the tough part in many of these MISSIONS. Leading with the PINKY is not something that is easy at first. However, once you get it, it will make a host of other licks much easier to pull off. It's the most neglected finger on the hand of many a fine player.
Sarge
Posted by: yoncopin Jul 27 2016, 02:54 AM
This was the toughest one yet, I had to really slow it down. Lesson 11 @ 80bpm
Posted by: Todd Simpson Jul 27 2016, 10:39 AM
VERY NICE!!! You have got the "LEADING PINKY" technique going on really well here. Your timing is very good and your alternate picking is quite spiff as well!!! Soldier. I"m gonna throw a bit of a TWIST your way here. You have come a long way and I think you are ready for this. It varies with each player. But I think you have hit the point where you can handle. it.
You are only two missions away from your first DOUBLE CHEVRON badge and I have yet to ask you to do any "MULTI PICKING" There is quite a bit of it to come after MISSION 12. I want to see if you can challenge your fingers to a DUEL!!! Try to take this lick, going up or down the neck, and DOUBLE PICK IT. Just pick every note twice. Sounds easy right? It is a bit harder than it sounds at first. But it will prepare you for what you will face once you cross over to your next seres of challenges.
Again, forget about trying to play this fast. Just play at a COMFY speed. Whatever that is. Double pick, through the entire thing, going up or down the neck. Dealers Choice!!!
You are RIPPING through these and at this rate you will be our highst ranking Soldier in a couple of weeks!!
Posted by: yoncopin Jul 27 2016, 01:50 PM
Thanks! MULTIPICKING -- I'm on it Sarge!!!
Posted by: Todd Simpson Jul 27 2016, 08:13 PM
You are ready Soldier!!! GIVE EM HELL!!
Sarge!
Posted by: Todd Simpson Jul 29 2016, 12:32 AM
I think you are ready Soldier!!! Don't let it throw you off itf it seems hard at first. It only seems hard because, it is hard. But you can do it!! I've seen the seeds of greatness in your playing. Time to water them and let them grow!
Posted by: yoncopin Jul 29 2016, 02:33 AM
This is a really nice thing to say... here it is MULTIPICKING! Not too bad, was able to increase speed from the last video from 80->90bpm.
Posted by: Todd Simpson Jul 29 2016, 10:26 PM
CONGRATS SOLDIER!!!! Welcome to the world of MULTI PICKING!!! For your first time out, you did really well! Let's debrief!
MEDALS OF HONOR
1.)Very spiff finger control on a very tough lick
2.)MULTI PICKING FROM HELL!
3.)Tight right/left hand synch!
You checked all the boxes on technique. What really impresses me though is the multi picking. It sometimes throws people off so bad, they toss the guitar in to a wall. You seem to have a really good handle on it!!! CONGRATS! Well fought Soldier!! Keep at it! Your next mission awaits! Mission 12 is the first "Barrier" to your Double Chevron Badge. You can do it!!!!
Congrats Soldier, you just ...
LEVELED UP!!
You are ready for MISSION 12 and beyond!!! Keep in mind that if a mission has 6 examples, you have to play all 6. Try to do one or two as multi pick!!!
Sarge
Posted by: yoncopin Jul 31 2016, 02:15 AM
Lesson 12 110bpm with multipicking! Double chevron here I come!
Posted by: Todd Simpson Aug 1 2016, 07:00 PM
WELL FOUGHT SOLDIER!! This lick is really handy when playing a solo that is in an open string key! Try to mess around with in in any backing of E, A, D, G, or B. and use the appropriate string! Easy as that . For now, let's debrief!
MEDALS OF HONOR
1.)Very even and steady timing
2.)Great palm mute ( never lifted once)
3.)Smooth precisoin/speed.
In short you just killed it and are ready to dive in to the deep end!! I fear I mislead you with the double chevron though 
Lesson 12 is the last of the single chevron lessons. You get your first double badge at Level 13. Then your Triple Badge at level 26. The highest soldier we have currently is Fzalfa @ Level 32. The first Quad Chevron badge is at level 39. I"ve been teaching here more than five years an nobody, I repeat, nobody has EVER reached the Quad badge. With persistence you could be the first!!
For now, you just LEVELED UP!!!
Sarge
Posted by: yoncopin Aug 3 2016, 01:20 AM
Ok, this time for the double chevron! Lesson 13 @ 140bpm
Posted by: Todd Simpson Aug 3 2016, 11:23 PM
Is that an RG570 by chance? Nice On to the debrief!
BLOOD IN!!! BLOOD OUT!!!!
MEDALS OF HONOR
1.)Ascending and Descending in steady, solid pacing.
2.)TIGHT hand synch through the entire run.
3.)Blood on the Frets!!! ( I can hear the time you put in, in every note)
This is a tough Mission on the picking hand, and you just KARUSHED IT!!!!! All of your work is paying off in spades Soldier!!
Congrats Soldier, you just CROSSED OVER to the rare land of the DOUBLE CHEVRON BADGE!!
and......LEVELED UP!!
Posted by: yoncopin Aug 5 2016, 08:48 PM
Lesson 14 @150bpm. This one was a lot of fun Playing the new 1991 Ibanez RG760 which came yesterday, and a photo of my wall of black guitars 
Posted by: Todd Simpson Aug 5 2016, 10:22 PM
WOW. Before we get to the debrief, let me share my sick amount of honest jealousy for the RG760. It's one of my "Buck List" guitars an I will have one before I die gosh darn it!!!! Super congrats on adding that to the collection. Looks to be in MINT condition which is super rare. Don't sell that guitar under pain of death!!!
-----
On to the MISSION!!!
Soldier, I must say I'm Impressed. You are playing this lick smoothly, with very tight hand synch an a great palm mute. Every note is tight and staccato as it should be. Very clean and precise playing which is exactly what I'm looking for. Let's Debrief!!
Soldier you are kkilling it!! Keep up this momentum and you'll be reaching lesson 400 soon!
Let's Debrief!!!!!
MEDALS OF HONOR
1.)Precise control of pick and fretting
2.)Right and Left hand working in very good synch
3.)I can see you have put in the time in the woodshed!!!!
You are ripping through these Soldier!!! Keep it up!
Congrats Soldier you just ...
!!!LEVELED UP!!!
Playing the new 1991 Ibanez RG760 which came yesterday, and a photo of my wall of black guitars Posted by: yoncopin Aug 6 2016, 12:58 AM
Thanks Todd! Yeah, it's about as good as you could hope a 25 year old guitar would be, really happy with it. I do know of http://www.ebay.com/itm/262564942046?ssPageName=STRK:MESELX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1555.l2649
Posted by: yoncopin Aug 7 2016, 05:39 PM
Todd, question about https://www.guitarmasterclass.net/wiki/index.php/Lesson_Series:_%E2%80%9C0_To_60%2C_An_Introduction_to_Alternate_Picking%E2%80%9D_-_Lesson_15... When are you supposed to economic pick? Anytime you change strings?
Posted by: Todd Simpson Aug 8 2016, 11:16 AM
Good question! Yes, when you think it might improve the playability of the lick, or make it a bit easier, use two down or up strokes in a row. I didn't notate any pick strokes as I want everyone to explore it a bit to find where they get benefit from economic picking. I usually use econ when moving in a given direction. E.g Descending traverse strings (e.g. High E to B string) = double up strokes.
Posted by: yoncopin Aug 12 2016, 02:16 AM
Ok, here's lesson 15 @100 bpm. I used the economic motion on the first string transition from the E to A string.
Posted by: Todd Simpson Aug 12 2016, 11:27 PM
Like a man on a Mission, like a moth to the flame, like a warrior to the front line, you continue to dive in and keep swinging!!!!
Let's Debrief!!!!!
MEDALS OF HONOR
1.)Very tight right/left hand synchronization
2.)Zero extra string noise/killer palm mute
3.)Precise articulation of the pick during string traverse
Congrats Soldier you just ...
!!!LEVELED UP!!!
You continue to impress me Soldier!! These next lessons are going to get HAIRY. Don't worry, yoiu can handle it!!!! Also, think about adding in DOUBLE PICKING on as you go forward!!!
Sarge
Posted by: yoncopin Aug 13 2016, 01:38 PM
Thanks Todd! My thoughts on double picking thus far is that it actually makes the lessons easier. My left hand is slower than my right and it gives me more time to move my fingers. What do you think, focus more on the weakness or focus on the alternate picking?
Posted by: Todd Simpson Aug 14 2016, 03:58 AM
BOTH!!! I"m not saying do one or the other, I'm suggesting running each mission in singles and doubles Even in Triples and or Quads if you can manage it It forces the picking hand to adapt in different ways depending on whats being played. So keep doing single alt picking, but add in a multi pick version of each lick as well Dealers choice on which kind of multipicking
Todd
Posted by: yoncopin Aug 15 2016, 09:49 PM
Lesson 16, I forget what tempo I recorded these at because I changed it for the triple multipicking
Posted by: Todd Simpson Aug 16 2016, 09:08 PM
Well Fought Soldier!!! Your MultiPicking is really starting to take off!!!! Let's Debrief.......
MEDALS OF HONOR
1.)MULTIPICKING from Hell!
2.)Right/Left Hand Synch, also from Hell!
3.)Zero extra string noise, SOLID palm mute!
You are doing really well on these Soldier. Your technique is very solid and your picking is getting better by the day it seems! Keep pushing yourself and see how far you can go. Many folks get stumped by the Missions that are basically just "Create a solo against this backing" but I don't think you will have trouble with those. I've heard you doing solos
Congrats Soldier, you just ...
Posted by: yoncopin Aug 23 2016, 02:34 AM
Lesson 17, funny last time I said the multipicking was "easier". Not so on this lesson, it was the other way around.
Posted by: Todd Simpson Aug 23 2016, 08:16 AM
Well Fought Soldier!!! I can tell from the Sheer Aggression that you are more than ready for the PATH OF BLOOD that is to come!!!! You are about to enter the land of the THIRD CHEVRON and it's a tough road but you are ready!!!!!!!
Let's Debrief.....
MEDALS OF HONOR
1.)Articulate playing! Very nice control of the pick while traversing strings.
2.)Right and left hand are in TIGHT synch. That takes WORK!!!! nice
3.)MULTI PICKING!!! I couldn't be more proud of your MULTI PICKING WORK!!! Also, you keep a nice firm palm mute the entire
You are making GREAT progress Soldier!!!! Whatever you are doing it's working!! Keep it up!!!
In other words, you just......
Posted by: yoncopin Aug 23 2016, 01:56 PM
Thanks Todd! I really appreciate your feedback and enthusiasm I've actually been feeling a bit discouraged with my playing lately. I've been struggling with a https://www.guitarmasterclass.net/guitar_forum/index.php?showtopic=53529&view=findpost&p=736912 that Gabriel assigned to me. I've been practicing daily at GMC now for about two years and have been kind of disappointed in myself for struggling so much with something so fundamental. It makes the music I want to play seem so distant.
I think it's also compounded by a bit of guilt/poser/imposter syndrome. I just sold my old amp, Pod HD and a ton of other stuff and bought myself a Line 6 Helix. I couldn't be more excited about it, but I like to "earn" my gear and I have not been feeling worthy of such a glamorous item.
In good news though, I made a lot of progress on my studio rack All the cuts and drilling is done, thanks for your feedback!
Posted by: yoncopin Aug 24 2016, 02:13 AM
One question about Lesson 18, are you looking for a complete composed solo? or do you just want me to turn the camera on and jam, like the Saturday Shredfest? I jammed on it for a while tonight and lots of decent ideas, but it'll take quite a bit to put a solo together a practice the whole thing. I don't think I've ever actually done that.
Posted by: Todd Simpson Aug 26 2016, 03:38 AM
Guilt is like a carrying a bag of bricks. You just got to sit it down sometimes Buying new gear can often help motivate us to keep playing through a rough patch. I've found that a new guitar can often motivate me to write new bits in a new way just from the way it plays/sounds. So I'd say don't feel at all bad New Gear is ALWAYS a good thing IMHO Embrace the Happy!
Good to see your rack is coming along!! Keep us posted
Todd
I've actually been feeling a bit discouraged with my playing lately. I've been struggling with a https://www.guitarmasterclass.net/guitar_forum/index.php?showtopic=53529&view=findpost&p=736912 that Gabriel assigned to me. I've been practicing daily at GMC now for about two years and have been kind of disappointed in myself for struggling so much with something so fundamental. It makes the music I want to play seem so distant.I think it's also compounded by a bit of guilt/poser/imposter syndrome. I just sold my old amp, Pod HD and a ton of other stuff and bought myself a Line 6 Helix. I couldn't be more excited about it, but I like to "earn" my gear and I have not been feeling worthy of such a glamorous item.
In good news though, I made a lot of progress on my studio rack
All the cuts and drilling is done, thanks for your feedback!You can improve or plan it out, or do a bit of both. As long as you can use some of the licks/bits that you have learned so far in Missions you've completed. There have been wands of Minor Scale and Pentatonic licks to choose from. Try to review the licks you can remember and review some older lessons if needed, and make use of licks that we have learned so far to go in your solo. That's what I"m really looking for
Make sense?Sarge
Posted by: yoncopin Aug 28 2016, 03:04 AM
Thanks Todd, here is my take on the Lesson 18 Improv. I did a few of those descending scales and noodled around a bit, some good, and plenty of mistakes. Got my rack assembled today, now for the finishing
Edit 8/29: I should add that I don't really like my solo much. As I find is often a problem for me, I'm really just playing notes from a scale, that don't sound bad, and throwing in a few of the licks I know. There isn't much happening here that is truly intentional or musically expressive. Musically, I haven't gotten to the point where I'm actually expressing myself in a style that I would actually want to listen to. I'm not sure how to develop that other than to just keep making solos and improvising...
Posted by: Todd Simpson Aug 30 2016, 08:43 AM
Nice One Soldier!!!! I think you may be beating yourself up too much here on the solo. I liked it quite a bit I think it's one of the best solos I"ve ever heard you play to be frank. I can hear you pausing and thinking/feeling where the next bit should be which is how it starts getting to where you want it to be. It's a relationship between you and the backing track. The more you do it, the more you will hear the solo happening in your head a seconds ahead. Your fingers will head to that position to make the lick happen that your brain is saying should go there. After a certain point, you don't even think in terms of licks, it becomes a mostly emotional response to what you are playing over/against/with. You will literally "feel" what the next bit "wants" and your fingers will just play it. The best way to get there is to simply play lots of solos over backings. Just like anything else, scales, etc. repetition is key.
On this on in particular, you have good note choice, good timing, some sweet chops, and it works musically, so I'd say give yourself credit, I certainly am!!!!
Let's Debrief...
MEDALS OF HONOR
1.)Well played and executed. This one Mission more than any other, keeps folks from getting their next badge. Making up a solo can be a scary thing. Especially at first. I can't tell you how many folks have had their last badge right before this Mission. Breaking that barrier is something to be proud of.
2.)Your technique here is just what I was looking for. You show a variety of techniques and you string them together without it sounding like just a bunch of bits strung together, it sounds like music
3.)Your timing is also very good here. It's great to see your progress as a player! Keep going!!! Solo over songs that you like, just try to find the root note on the E string. A shocking amount of rock music works with the minor and blues scale, so once you find the root, you can start noodling around
You really did make a good solo here and as a result Soldier, you have.....
Soldier, you have just
As if that weren't cool enough, you finished your rack!!! Can't wait to see it with some gear in it
Sarge
Edit 8/29: I should add that I don't really like my solo much. As I find is often a problem for me, I'm really just playing notes from a scale, that don't sound bad, and throwing in a few of the licks I know. There isn't much happening here that is truly intentional or musically expressive. Musically, I haven't gotten to the point where I'm actually expressing myself in a style that I would actually want to listen to. I'm not sure how to develop that other than to just keep making solos and improvising...
Posted by: yoncopin Sep 12 2016, 01:27 AM
Lesson 19 here @ 90bpm. I've been really busy with this, Gabe's lessons and finishing my pedal cabinet. Here are a few photos of the card itself 
Posted by: Todd Simpson Sep 16 2016, 09:14 PM
Well fought Soldier!!! This is not an easy bit to play. You are really showing promise and ability here Soldier! Let's Debrief....
MEDALS OF HONOR
1.)Good Muting! Without good muting, this entire thing does not work. It's got open strings in it so without good muting you get all sorts of noise. Your muting technique is quite good and has come a long way so congrats there!!
2.)Even Strikes. Very hard to get solid and even strikes with both hands. The goal is to make it sound like it's coming from one hand and you are doing a very good job of it!
3.)Timing. Your timing here is very good!!! There is a nice pace to the playing and its not rushed or dragged.
If this is any indication, you are going to rip through these next lessons like a Hot Boot Knife through Butter!!
P.S. Your new fx module is looking spiff!!! Congrats on that. I can't wait to see a few of these in a rack!! Being able to build y our own pedal board, out of analogue fx, and have it off the ground and safe in a rack is a killer idea. The control board can get beer spilled on it and not wreck the brain of the gear. Also, amazing flexibility, folks could choose their fx and the order they go in. Would also be great outboard gear in a studio!
Back to the fight!
In other words, you just...
LEVELED UP!
Posted by: yoncopin Sep 19 2016, 07:07 PM
Lesson 20 here!
and my pedal cabinet with two working effects 
Posted by: Todd Simpson Sep 19 2016, 08:33 PM
New Mission and a new build!! Congrats Soldier Before I Get in to the Mission, I gotta give you props on your build!!! Looks amazing. Super nice. Really looks like it could be in any top notch studio. I don't know if you are up for starting a small biz selling custom cabs to studios, but I gotta say, you certainly have the skills to do it. IF you ever need a second line of work, or wanna make a few bucks, even selling through ebay/reverb could make you some good money. Folks will pay for nice quality. Do you know anything about wood stains and such? Could you do oxblood for example? Just to give you an idea of what things go for, here is a tiny oxblood stained table for a studio that runs $655. They are sold out currently
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/445786063095315592/
Also, I see your modules in there!! Very spiff. Could be another income stream Custom analogue modules of your choosing. Literally any configuration. Very spiff indeed!!!
Tod
and my pedal cabinet with two working effects
Posted by: yoncopin Sep 19 2016, 09:12 PM
Before I Get in to the Mission, I gotta give you props on your build!!! Looks amazing. Super nice. Really looks like it could be in any top notch studio. I don't know if you are up for starting a small biz selling custom cabs to studios, but I gotta say, you certainly have the skills to do it. IF you ever need a second line of work, or wanna make a few bucks, even selling through ebay/reverb could make you some good money. Folks will pay for nice quality. Do you know anything about wood stains and such? Could you do oxblood for example? Just to give you an idea of what things go for, here is a tiny oxblood stained table for a studio that runs $655. They are sold out currently https://www.pinterest.com/pin/445786063095315592/
Also, I see your modules in there!! Very spiff. Could be another income stream
Custom analogue modules of your choosing. Literally any configuration. Very spiff indeed!!!Tod
Thanks so much Todd
That is very kind of you to say. I'm very pleased with how the project turned out. I really liked experimenting with pedal building, but the enclosures were such a pain and my room was approaching a serious cable-pocalypse. This is nice and contained and I don't have to spray paint anything I would definitely still call it a prototype, but for my home use it'll work just how I need it to. It was a good opportunity to learn more about electronics, woodworking, audio, etc... It's a bit hard to tell, but this cabinet is stained "Classic Grey" so oxblood is definitely doable. I don't think I'll be making it a business any time soon though, I just love creating and building things It's taken a lot of time away from my actual guitar playing, so I'm glad to be back to that. Once I get some more effects I'm planning to do a more thorough write-up for GMC and maybe post it to a couple other DIY places.
Posted by: Todd Simpson Sep 19 2016, 10:16 PM
Well Fought Soldier!! You have a really good grip on everything in this mission. You are more than ready for what lay ahead!!!!
MEDALS OF HONOR
1.)Picking is on point! Your picking is very clean and as a bonus you are not losing your palm mute! This is a very important skill that can take forever to get a handle on and you've got it!
2.)Muting spot on! You keep a good solid palm mute the entire time and don't let a lot of extra noise happen which is great to see! Being able to control the noises that happen and don't happen is key!
3.)Pacing is great as well!! You don't rush or lag during the entire bit.
In short you KILLED IT Soldier!!!! Prepare yourself for some rough bits to come but nothing you can't handle!!!!
In other words, you just ...
P.S Are you using the Helix to control your modular fx rack? Does it take midi control or some type of remote control?
Keep it up Soldier!!
Todd
and my pedal cabinet with two working effects
Posted by: yoncopin Oct 12 2016, 12:50 AM
It took me a bit of time to get back in the routine of practicing after my vacation, but things are starting to settle down again. Here's Lesson 21!
Posted by: Todd Simpson Oct 12 2016, 12:36 PM
NICE!!!!! Well Fought Soldier!! I just realized after looking through this tab, that's it's a stripped down version of what's being done in the video. I'm going to update the lesson itself but as this was my bad I'm not going to hold you responsible. You played well and deserve your kudos!!!!
Let's Debrief...
MEDAL OF HONOR
1.)Right hand is firmly planted on the bridge and you are starting to articulate the pick very well with a pinch of wrist and some finger action. Well done there!
2.)Precise as a Scalpel. This is a very good workout for either alt picking or econ depending on how you approach it it.
3.)CONTROL: No extra string noise, no unwanted notes and very even and deliberate pacing. Score!!!
In short, your hard work is paying off in spades and you are more than ready for the hurdles that away you in coming missions! ATTACK!!!
You just.....
LEVELED UP!!!
P.S. Just for giggles, here is the tab and the guitar pro files that match the lick in the vid. It's a BEAST of a lick to pull of at speed so if you give it a shot, take the metronome down to about half.
21.gp5 ( 1.93K )
: 58
21.gpx ( 15.07K )
: 54
Posted by: yoncopin Oct 17 2016, 12:57 AM
Lesson 22 ready Sarge!
Posted by: Todd Simpson Oct 17 2016, 11:15 PM
Well Fought Soldier!!! Remind me again, is that Ibby an RG570? Either way fine choice Not to mention a good choice for this MISSION!!! Sometimes, you just need an Ibby!!!! On to the debrief!!
NICE!!! This is a really tough bit to play as you can't rely on your picking hand AT ALL. It's a great warm up and a great way to work on your left hand!!! If you can play scales with your left hand only, then picking becomes a tone choice. You can add picking or not, depending on how you want it to sound.
Try this technique with just about any shape, any scale, anything at all, it's great work for hand power/finger power/pinky power.
MEDALS OF HONOR
1.)Left hand POWER! That was a great example of using it to shred your brains out!!!
2.)Pacing and Speed! This is a very tough one to keep even and you did very well on keeping it nice and smooth!! Not rushing or dragging.
3.)Aggression! The best part was the aggressive style. Jumping right in to the lick and going for it!!
In short, you just ...
LEVELED UP!
Posted by: yoncopin Oct 20 2016, 01:01 AM
and Lesson 23! I took some of your advice in https://www.guitarmasterclass.net/guitar_forum/index.php?s=&showtopic=57511&view=findpost&p=739535. I tried to make it easy and quick to record, but up the quality a bit.
Posted by: Todd Simpson Oct 20 2016, 10:23 AM
CLEAN KILL SOLDIER!!! This is not an easy Mission, it involves on one of the trickiest bits for many folks, the dreaded "PINKY SLIDE"! You seemed to have no trouble at all!!! Well done there. Many folks find it very hard to slide with the pinky and instead they slide with the next closest finger which makes doing three note per string runs very awkward. Congrats on getting a handle on this technique!!!
Also, very spiff ibby! Can you give me a run down of your collection one more time? Love them in your vids In addition, very glad to see that my bit about making easier/better videos helped out You have made quite a nice setup there in your home studio!! Direct recording to PC and a new vid editor. It always helps to have as many steps removed as possible. I've found it encourages better and more frequent video making! Welcome to the world of HD videos
Let's debrief!!!!!
MEDALS OF HONOR
1.)PINKY TRAVEL; Nice fret travel! Not only traversing strings, but traveling up the fretboard in a very smooth and precise fashion.
2.)PACING: The pacing is nice and even and deliberate as it should be.
3.)MUTING: VERY good job muting on this as it's one of those licks that is prone to cause string noise. You keep a good solid palm mute while using your thumb and finger to control the pick. It's the culmination of everything we work on in chat and it's coming together nicely!!!!
In short, you just ...
LEVELED UP!
Posted by: yoncopin Oct 20 2016, 01:38 PM
Thanks Todd! The guitars are a silver 2000 RG570 and a black 1990 RG760. I really enjoy them both. I have quite a few other guitars and they all seem to have their special place, I love them all. I think I'm pretty much set, until...
Yes, I didn't struggle with this lesson too much. Once I memorized the pattern I pretty much had it. My speed still isn't great, but I'm trusting what you said about that coming on it's own. So I'm just focusing on precision, essentially right at the edge of my comfortable speed.
The video setup is really great, I'm glad I invested the time in setting it up right. That also inspired me a bit to setup a DAW template with my drum plugins. I've been using that more as a metronome than just a click track. It's a bit more fun to jam to and makes a bit better video. So, I hope you enjoy the results!
Posted by: Todd Simpson Oct 21 2016, 11:38 PM
Fine scores on both!! Personal advice would be to only sell them on pain of death. They just dont' make them like that anymore and the necks on those are works of art that are now found on guitars that cost about 2 o 3 thousand dollars. Even the new Peripery Jake Bowden Sig sports the Wizard II which is a bit thicker and the guitar costs an arm and a leg. The Wizard is now called the SUPER HP WIZARD or something similar and requires hyper strong support rods to keep it from warping.
One bit of advice, avoid 10 gauge strings if possible. If not, it's your axes and some folks do do fine. Some folks put 10s on a wizard and notice it warp. I use 8s or 9s at best on my RG60
Very true about each axe having it's own spot. It all depends on what you are playing. With wads of stuff in bootcamp, you may find that one of the Ibby's is your best bet as that's what I write most of it on
I do enjoy the results quite a bit! Top quality vids with drums. Having a daw template with your drums ready to go and a camera ready to roll, really takes away the "pain in the neck factor" of sitting down to record quite a bit. Found that out the hard way as I used to do it the old way from scratch each time and found it actually discourage me sometimes.
Your precision is quite good! The speed will just happen over time without even realizing it
Todd
Yes, I didn't struggle with this lesson too much. Once I memorized the pattern I pretty much had it. My speed still isn't great, but I'm trusting what you said about that coming on it's own. So I'm just focusing on precision, essentially right at the edge of my comfortable speed.
The video setup is really great, I'm glad I invested the time in setting it up right. That also inspired me a bit to setup a DAW template with my drum plugins. I've been using that more as a metronome than just a click track. It's a bit more fun to jam to and makes a bit better video. So, I hope you enjoy the results!
Posted by: yoncopin Oct 22 2016, 07:54 PM
Thanks for the advice, I wouldn't want anything to happen to them Up next, lesson 24.
Posted by: Todd Simpson Oct 24 2016, 06:17 AM
Let's debrief!!!!!
MEDALS OF HONOR
Congrats Soldier! You are knocking em down left and right!! Let's Debrief!! ...
BTW Such a lovely Ibby there, every time I see it
1.)PICK AND HAMMER!: The "Pick and Hammer" is very important and you have a very good grasp here both ascending and descending. Some players find if very hard to do to one or the other, just depends on the player and do both with style!!
2.)Palm Mute Madness: Very good control of leaving your palm in one place and using your fingers to make notes. This is something I try to teach all the time and it takes folks quite a while to get the hang of it, and you have it!!!!!!!!
3.)Timing and Precision: Very tight and very evenly played. This is not easy to pull off on this lick and you used your PINKY!!
In short, you just ...
LEVELED UP!
Up next, lesson 24.Posted by: yoncopin Nov 4 2016, 09:57 PM
Lesson 25 here!
Posted by: Todd Simpson Nov 5 2016, 02:56 AM
Yet again WELL FOUGHT SOLDIER!!!! This is what I call a "Back and Forth" Lick for hopefully obvious reasons I can't help but notice the smooth delivery of your alternate picking and the confident fretting of your right hand. This is EXACTLY what I like to see. no hesitation. Pure killer instinct.
on to the debrief!!!!
MEDALS OF HONOR
1.)Slow and Steady wins the race! : You do a great job of pick control on this one. Steady pace and even playing. Nice!!
2.)PALM MUTE MADNESS: Very clean palm mute per usual as I've come to expect. Nice!!
3.)Back and Forth like a champ!: This can a VERY VERY confusing lick, Well done
In short, you just ...
LEVELED UP!
Posted by: yoncopin Nov 6 2016, 01:48 AM
This was a great comment to get
On to Lesson 26!Posted by: Todd Simpson Nov 6 2016, 07:03 AM
WELL FOUGHT SOLDIER!!! I notice you are doing a lot of articulation using just your finger and thumb and it's great to see!! This is something that some folks just fight and fight and fight. It seems you have fought and are winning this battle. Super congrats there. Also, your technique continues to be very solid and you are even using your PINKY!!!! Soldier, this is the type of Mission Vid! I like to see!
Let's Debrief!
MEDALS OF HONOR
1.)Planted palm mute and using your fingers to control the pick. Nice!
2.)Very precise control over your String Traverse. Traverse is just plain difficult for many a Soldier. Traverse of course, just talking about moving from one string to another. Once you get this, soooooo many other things fall in to place and you got a really good handle on it Soldier!!
3.)Even handed timing and synch. Not rushing or dragging, just right.
In short, you are showing great finger control and pick control and very good right/left hand synchronization. This is exactly what I like to see. Soldier you just...
LEVELED UP!!!!
IN ADDITION, YOU JUST MADE IT TO THE TRIPLE CHEVRON BADGE!! CONGRATS!!!
On to Lesson 26!Posted by: yoncopin Nov 8 2016, 01:59 AM
Here we go, Lesson 27!
Posted by: Todd Simpson Nov 9 2016, 12:15 AM
Well Fought Yet Again Soldier!! You have come a LONG way and it's great to see!! This Mission makes use of the dreaded PINKY and involves a bit of a Streeeetch as a bonus. I wanted to say very well done on using Economic picking (two down strokes when ascending from B to high E), or at least it looks like that's whats happening This Mission, like all of them, has it's challenges and you have clearly got a very good handle on tough bits involved. On to the debrief!!
MEDALS OF HONOR
1.)Planted palm mute! Easy to get string noise when traversing, good to see you muting well!
2.)Tight right/left synch on the hands. If your hand synch drifts even a pinch, drills like this will let you know. Especially when played to a metronome. If you don't play with precision, it will jump out at you. You played with a very high degree of precision here.
3.)Smooth Traverse and Fret Transition. Being able to traverse frets and strings while making everything sound like it's being played on one string that's moving under your hand instead of your hand moving, is the goal and you nailed it
In short, you are showing great finger control and pick control and very good right/left hand synchronization. This is exactly what I like to see. Soldier you just...
LEVELED UP!!!!
Posted by: yoncopin Nov 11 2016, 03:10 PM
Lesson 28! I'm working on the Pink Floyd challenge too. I had a lot of fun on the Rammstein collab, so I think I'm going to try to do more of my own small writing challenges to try to improve in that area too.
Posted by: Todd Simpson Nov 13 2016, 12:09 AM
NICE!! This is a very technical bit of playing and you NAILED IT per usual. Your finger dexterity and pick articulation are coming along very nicely. Keep this up and you will be the TERMINATOR!
Let's debrief!
You ticked off every box I look for on this one Soldier!!
MEDALS OF HONOR
1.)Finger Traverse: With skill and grace, you traverse like a champ!
2.)Very good muting resulting in clean tone without string noise. KEY to playing a bit like this. Without good muting, it's a mess.
3.)Picking articulation is some of the best from you I've seen: AWESOME!
E.G. KRUSHED IT! and..
LEVELED UP!!!!
Posted by: yoncopin Nov 13 2016, 02:32 PM
Oh man, I can only hope. I am really feeling good about my playing right now, like I am actually getting better FINALLY. I still need some more speed. After listening to my Pink Floyd Sunday Shred fest, it has my classic problem of now variety in tempo. The very end I throw in a quicker lick, but slow <-> fast, quiet <-> loud, those are the ranges to explore to make your music interesting. Very excited with my progress lately, maybe just because I'm extending myself in the collabs and sunday shred. That said, here's Lesson 29!
Posted by: Todd Simpson Nov 13 2016, 10:20 PM
GREAT WORK SOLDIER!!! I've been very impressed with how fast you are getting better!!! I"m glad you can see it in your playing as well The BOOTCAMP is a great way to get better quick!!! IT's only part of the puzzle of course, but once you have this part moving, the other parts start falling in place. Sorta like learning one language makes it a bit easier to learn others, learning one aspect of guitar (Precision/shredding/syncopation/synchrony) can aid in learning other aspects. It's contrasting between these various bits, as you mentioned, that gives a player "dynamics" and allows him/her to create their own "Style". To wit!!!
This look far too easy for you Soldier!! I want you to dive in to BLACK OPS!! Give me a quick video of DOUBLE PICKING on just the first part of the MISSION. Just the first lick. I"ve seen folks have their noggin blow up just trying to multi pick this lick, but you can do it!!!
SARGE
Posted by: yoncopin Nov 18 2016, 02:04 AM
Here we go, double picking at 110bpm
Posted by: Todd Simpson Nov 18 2016, 06:04 PM
NICE!!! Still making it look easy, even at speed!!! No point in delaying this any more, you are ready for what's next. Let's debrief!!
I keep setting them up and you keep knocking em down!! I like the fight in you Soldier!! You are really on a roll. Keep it up!!!
MEDALS OF HONOR
1.)Clean muting/picking. Doing a great job managing the string noise that is very hard to escape in licks like these! Nice!
2.)Very smooth timing. It's often the case that these licks get rushed, dragged, but not by you!!
3.)DOUBLE PICKING! Very well done on the double picking here. You don't lose your mute, you don't start rushing or dragging, solid as a rock.
You are well prepped for the uphill climb before you soldier!!!
You are on a roll Soldier!! In short, you just...
LEVELED UP!!!!
Posted by: yoncopin Dec 10 2016, 06:01 PM
After a ton of back and forth with Fender and Line 6, I have ALL my gear back. So, after a short hiatus, I am back to practicing again. Hope your back is feeling better, here's Lesson 30 to keep you occupied
Posted by: Todd Simpson Dec 11 2016, 10:44 AM
Welcome Back Soldier!!! Glad to hear your kit is back to fighting shape as well! It's hard to fight without your Gun! Keep her clean and loaded at all times. On to the debrief!
MEDALS OF HONOR
1.)SYNCH! Your right/left hand synchronization is spot on Soldier. This workout, like most, will help show you if there are any gaps hiding from view. The good news is I don't see any!!!
2.)Technique: Your right hand is well planted to prevent unwanted string noise, and it's doing a good deal of the muting. This is something else that stumps many players as they often rely on right hand muting which results in not being able to play certain licks without generating string noise. Most of these licks are designed to make wads of string noise if you play them wrong. But you play them just right!!
3.)Steady Hand: Your picking is very clean and even. That's one of the hardest of all. This is VERY important and you've got a really good handle on it. Like I always say, you gotta learn to play like a robot if you wanna shred like a God!!!
You've ticked every box I want ticked for this mission Soldier! Stick a fork in it! It's done!!
In short you just....
LEVELED UP!!!!
Posted by: yoncopin Dec 23 2016, 02:21 AM
Lesson 31 ready to go Sarge! I don't like how my fingers are flapping in the wind on the 3rd part, but it's really tough to keep them close to the fretboard. My RG760 in this video got a new neck pickup this week, going from the Dimarzio Pro Track (mini-humbucker) to a Dimarzio Injector noiseless single-coil. It lets me get a lot more range out of one guitar and sets it a bit more apart from my other ones
Posted by: Todd Simpson Dec 23 2016, 05:47 AM
Congrats on your upgrade! The single coils are the one weak spot imho on many of my fave ibby's. I've often wanted a pup like you are installing with a coil tap so that I could use it as a humbucker and single coil, depending. However, the burden of being a bit of an Ibby purist has so far restrained me from modifying my golden era ibby's but never say never! I find I have to dig much deeper/harder than I like when using the stock singles.
For now, let's talk about your Mission!
This mission requires quite a bit of picking precision that makes you find picking direction and then keep it clean. Then I add a stretch in to things. This is one lesson on which many warriors have stumbled, but not you! Let's debrief...
MEDALS OF HONOR
1.)Precise and clean picking, even with a stretch.
2.)Very tight and controlled, right/left hand synch.
3.)Very good muting and noise control with the right hand
I know this Mission is not easy. But it's worth it!! You have demonstrated impressive ability and are ready for what awaits!
Congrats Soldier, you just ...
LEVELED UP!!
Now it gets a bit complicated. But you are ready!!
Sarge
Posted by: yoncopin Jan 21 2017, 11:31 PM
It feels like forever since I posted a video. Xmas & New Years were slammed with family, then I got pneumonia. I'm almost better and wanted to post a take for Lesson 32.
Posted by: Todd Simpson Jan 22 2017, 08:38 AM
WELL FOUGHT SOLDIER!!!!
This lesson has a wad of different techniques that have to be all tied together in order to play all of these various licks. I gotta say you really killed it!! It's a great example of putting everything we've done so far to very good use and all in very tight synch and well paced.
Let's DEBRIEF!!!
MEDAL OF HONOR
1.)TIGHT right and left hand synchronization!
2.)PLANTED right hand for a solid mute.
3.)PRECISION picking with very good pacing.
Ticked every single box I was looking for and did so with grace and apparent ease!!!! You are more than ready to move forward Soldier!!!!
In other words Soldier, you just...
LEVELED UP!!!!
Posted by: yoncopin Feb 2 2017, 02:15 AM
Lesson 33 here! I got sick... again... so these lessons are slow coming, but I'm still working. Daycare produces some of the nastiest viruses known to man. I'll also be gone for a week in Feb to take of my mom after her back surgery. It's been a tough month around here, but I'm still practicing as much as I can. I want to be good soooo bad.
The hammer-on part wasn't too bad, but the alt picking was more challenging. Less so because of the picking, but I tried really hard to focus on palm muting the first note and playing the second two open. I took more time to improve the hand synch, but I think I got precise if not especially fast.
Posted by: Todd Simpson Feb 2 2017, 04:22 AM
BINGO!!!! Soldier!!! This makes me enormously proud to see. You are doing an "Alternate Mute" (like alt picking but with muting) without even being asked to do it. Being able to "Alt Mute" as you are doing, is the culmination of the muting strategy that we have been working on since Lesson 1. Some players,...scratch that....MOST players that I've seen play, struggle with this type of advanced mute. Many rely on the left hand for muting the high strings until they play their last. Not you Soldier. You have crossed over the River of Blood. Congratulations
MEDALS OF HONOR
1.)ALT MUTING!!! Great to see you adopting this technique and doing it well!
2.)Keeping Symch While Alt Muting!!! Even better
3.)Smooth Traverse while Alt Muting!!!! Best yet
In other words, you just
LEVELED UP!!!!!
On a personal note, I'm very sorry to hear you have hit a rough patch
Great to see you finding the time to practice despite hitting said patch. Believe me, rough patches are plentiful, they are not a reason to skip practice. In fact, I find practicing often helps me stay calm during the really rough bits. I wish your Mom the best with her Sugery! She is lucky to have a good son to look after her Onward!!
Sarge
The hammer-on part wasn't too bad, but the alt picking was more challenging. Less so because of the picking, but I tried really hard to focus on palm muting the first note and playing the second two open. I took more time to improve the hand synch, but I think I got precise if not especially fast.
Posted by: yoncopin Feb 2 2017, 03:33 PM
Thanks Todd! I needed that. Things have been rough, having kids is hard. It'll get better, playing my guitar has been very nice when I've been able to.
Posted by: Todd Simpson Feb 2 2017, 07:45 PM
I can only imagine. I'm glad that you have found refuge in music I certainly have, my entire life. I also found solace in practice which made things easier I found the repetition soothing. I"m a pinch on the Autism (aspergers) scale, which may explain why repeats are calming. Evidenly "aspies" find calm in repetition The repeat becomes a kind of mantra, like Buddhists use in chanting, to get out of ones own head.
Onward Soldier!
Sarge
I needed that. Things have been rough, having kids is hard. It'll get better, playing my guitar has been very nice when I've been able to.Posted by: yoncopin Feb 9 2017, 02:21 AM
Lesson 34 - This one I was surprisingly able to go faster than expected. I don't really know how, with the big stretch, but this one wasn't too bad for me.
Posted by: Todd Simpson Feb 9 2017, 05:40 AM
NICE!!! This is NOT an easy Mission. Requires,
*String Traverse, forward and back.
*Smooth pacing throughout
*Precise picking
*Right/left hand synch
*Crazy stretch
So it pulls together a bunch of techniques all at once. You Killed it!!!... let's debrief.
MEDALS OF HONOR
1.)Pinky Power!! Great use of the pink to reach and hammer the notes
2.)SOLID string traverse without any unwanted notes/noise.
3.)Back and forth on the strings without missing the strike or finger. Nice!
You ticked every box I was looking for soldier and did it with style. Congrats!! you just..
LEVELED UP!!!!
Posted by: yoncopin Mar 7 2017, 02:17 AM
I was away there for a while, but it's good to be back and practicing. This lesson was challenging, since it was so open. I tried to practice different scale patterns ascending and descending until I could get pseudo comfortable with moving through them at tempo without thinking too much. I tried to avoid my cliche licks and stay within the lesson instructions. It isn't the fastest or most interesting solo, but I only had one moment where my brain fell behind and I flubbed a bit. I just tried to let the backing track play and improvise, so none of this is planned.
Posted by: Todd Simpson Mar 7 2017, 03:27 AM
Well Fought Soldier! This is what I like to see. You are using a wide variety of stuff we've done and your own bits. I noticed the scale inversions and they worked quite well. It really gave me an Iron Maiden vibe which I mus say is right up my alley. You could tour on those chops. You've come a LOOOOOOONNNG way and you are ready to solo over pretty much anything that gets thrown your way. If you have not done so, I'd say get over to Gabes collab and put in a killer solo and put the same solo in my sunday challenge to give it more exposure. Folks need to see that rapid progress is possible with a massive amount of hard work!!!
Let's Debrief!..
MEDALS OF HONOR
*Playing with the backing, not against it: This separates the wheat from the chaff. You did a really good job on this. I did get the vibe that you may have been running out at the very end but still, great solo.
*Technique: Spot on, everything we've worked on, synch/picking/muting, etc
*VIBE: the most important part of any solo. is it listenable? Will the listener hit skip as soon as the solo starts? Not this time!
Welcome to Level 36!! I have not handed many of these Triple chevron badges out in 5 years time. You are one of the few, the proud, the honest to goodness BADASSes that earn the living daylights out of it. Congrats.
You just...
LEVELED UP!!!
Posted by: yoncopin Mar 8 2017, 03:01 AM
Lesson 36, this one wasn't too hard so I tried to multipick it at 120bpm
Posted by: Todd Simpson Mar 10 2017, 12:24 AM
Well Fought Soldier!!! The fact that you didn't this one too hard speaks well of your ability Soldier! Some folks find this one to
be a real finger twister!! Well played on the Doubles as well! Let's debrief!
MEDALS OF HONOR
*AGRESSIVE STYLE: Points for shear aggression on this one Soldier! You attacked it with speed and precision. Nice.
*MULTI PICKING: Not only did you tear through the Mission, but you double picked it as well! Score!
*TECHNIQUE: Solid palm mute, precise multi picking, not to mention aggressive approach.
In short you just ...
LEVELED UP!!!
Posted by: yoncopin Mar 19 2017, 07:25 PM
Lesson 37, ready to go!
Posted by: Todd Simpson Mar 20 2017, 03:14 AM
Well Fought Soldier!!! You are only steps away from your next added CHEVRON on your badge. I have not given many of these out so it's a rarified group. You have made great progress Soldier!! Let's debrief!!
MEDALS OF HONOR
*Solid Picking Technique: Both hands are synched up, your strikes are very certain and strong. Nice!
*Solid Palm Mute: You have gotten a very good handle on picking while keeping your mute solid. Well done!
*Solid Timing: This Mission, like many, falls apart if your timing slips even just a bit. Not here, timing is spot on.
This is a bit of a finger twister and you clearly have a good grasp of it. I think you are more than ready for what's coming at you at the next Chevron stage. In other words, you just..
LEVELED UP!!!!!
Posted by: yoncopin Mar 21 2017, 02:02 AM
Lesson 37 ready to go!
Posted by: Todd Simpson Mar 21 2017, 02:21 AM
I think you mean LESSON 38? You already passed 37 per your new Mission Badge This looks like you just killed it and as it's your last stop before the next badge upgrade, I'm gonna make it a bit tougher on you as it looks too easy! Give me these licks as Either Double, Triple or Quad pick. Dealers choices!! You will find it forces you to pick. a bit different.
Sarge
[quI tote name='yoncopin' date='Mar 20 2017, 09:02 PM' post='745701']
Lesson 37 ready to go!
[/quote]
Posted by: yoncopin Mar 21 2017, 01:29 PM
This looks like you just killed it and as it's your last stop before the next badge upgrade, I'm gonna make it a bit tougher on you as it looks too easy! Give me these licks as Either Double, Triple or Quad pick. Dealers choices!! You will find it forces you to pick. a bit different. Sarge
Yes, 38
Alright, multipicking, I'm on it!
Posted by: Todd Simpson Mar 21 2017, 11:45 PM
Give em Hell Soldier!
Sarge
Alright, multipicking, I'm on it!Posted by: yoncopin Mar 30 2017, 01:34 AM
Lesson 38 double picked as requested!
Posted by: Todd Simpson Mar 31 2017, 07:59 PM
Well Fought Soldier!! You really kicked the living crap out of this one!!!!! I set the bar high and you cleared it!!! Let's debrief!!...
MEDALS OF HONOR
*DOUBLE PICKING FROM HELL!: Well done on DOUBLE PICKING every one of these!
*HANDY SYNCH: Top notch hand synch from start to finish.
*Palm Mute: Just enough to control any errant string noise.
You played each one of these with skill and grace. You are really tearing it up Soldier!! Keep moving!!! This is your last mission before your next Badge upgrade!
In short you just ....
LEVELED UP!!!
Posted by: yoncopin Apr 8 2017, 06:45 PM
Lesson 39, ready for a new badge 
Posted by: Todd Simpson Apr 9 2017, 04:32 AM
Soldier, you KILLED IT and to be honest, I wanna see you sweating bullets! This is just too easy for a Man of your Skill!!! Let's turn up the heat. Give me that first bit as DOUBLE PICK or TRIPLE PICK, Dealers Choice!!! That will make your fingers work just a bit
Sarge
Posted by: yoncopin Apr 9 2017, 03:40 PM
Sarge
Thanks Todd, I want that new badge
Posted by: Todd Simpson Apr 9 2017, 07:51 PM
NAILED IT!!!!! . That's what I'm talking about Soldier!!!! Same killer use of Technique, Double the picking action. Nice!! Let's Debrief!!
MEDALS OF HONOR
*PICKING AS CLEAN AS GLASS: Despite the Double Picking hurdle, each strike is measured and even and strong.
*SYNCH SO TIGHT YOU COULD BOUNCE A QUARTER OFF OF IT: Right/Left hand Synch is Spot On, Per Usual!!
*PALM SUNDAY PALM MUTE: Palm Muting so solid that it naturally coincides with a Religious Observance!
In short, you applied your usual precision to this little finger twister and made it your own! No drama, just clean and precise. Well fought Soldier!!! Also, you just made it to your next CHEVRON and ...
LEVELED UP!!!!!!
*Not many 4 Chevron Badges Floating about and I've been granting badges for more than half a decade. You must be doing something right Soldier!!!
ONWARD!!!!!
Posted by: yoncopin Apr 9 2017, 11:18 PM
*PALM SUNDAY PALM MUTE: Palm Muting so solid that it naturally coincides with a Religious Observance!
LOL
Posted by: yoncopin Apr 10 2017, 02:07 AM
Now I'm on a roll, here's lesson 40
Posted by: Todd Simpson Apr 10 2017, 04:12 AM
WELCOME TO HELL SOLDIER!!!! You've earned it!!!!!! It almost goes without saying that your level of Skill is making this look to easy!!!! Give me this thing MULTI PICKED SOLDIER!!!! TRY TRIPLES!!!! They will make your fingers torque a pinch but you can handle it!!!!!!!!! You are a 4 Chevron Soldier!!!! BLEED FOR IT!!!
SARGE
Posted by: yoncopin Apr 12 2017, 02:31 AM
Ok triple picking went pretty well
Posted by: Todd Simpson Apr 12 2017, 03:30 AM
NICE!!! Now your killing it Soldier!!!! This is what I like to see. EARNING IT!!! I can tell that you are putting forth serious effort here to push the envelope. Well fought! Let's debrief!
MEDALS OF HONOR
*MACHINE GUN PICKING: Steady as an AR-15. Mechanical and Rythmic, or in other words, AWESOMENESS!
*CHAIN FED HAND SYNCH: Like a chain fed 50 Cal "Ma Deuce" The Hand Synch is crucial when playing at these speeds and with this level of complexity. If you would have had synch issues, it would have stuck out like a sore thumb. None to see! Nice.
*FOX HOLE PALM MUTE: Planted and Stuck to the bridge!! Just as it should be. No lifting, no dodgey reposition. Solid as a rock and low to the ground, unaffected by enemy fire!!
You really killed it and I can tell you are working for it Soldier!!! Well fought and well earned. In other words you just..
LEVELED UP!!!
Posted by: yoncopin Apr 14 2017, 02:25 PM
Here's Lesson 41
Posted by: Todd Simpson Apr 16 2017, 10:04 PM
Soldier, you nailed this chunk of it for sure! I've played this clip over and over and I don't hear the other bits of the mission. Either I'm going deaf or they are not there.
Sarge
Posted by: yoncopin Apr 19 2017, 07:07 PM
Here are the missing parts, sorry about that!
Posted by: Todd Simpson Apr 19 2017, 10:12 PM
Now your talking Soldier!!!! That was the "open string" bit that was meant to compliment the other bit. You can use both in any solo that's in the right key, in this case A.
You nailed both sections without any hiccups at all! They are each a bit different but you nailed both with grace and aggression just as it should be!! Let's debrief!!!
MEDALS OF HONOR
*LEFT HAND SKILLS: I made use of every string on purpose so that you can try to mute without moving your hand too much. You did a great job of keeping your mute stable and not moving your right hand around. It's easy to get pulled in to moving the hand instead of just rotating the wrist.
*RIGHT HAND SKILLS: Didn't miss a beat or a note! These licks are designed to get you to strike then hammer without striking. Some folks get their strikes and non strikes mixed up and it's easy to hear when it happens. Not you! Spot on.
*SYNCH LIKE A BOSS: This drill is also designed to show any gaps in right/left hand synch. The good news is, you don't have any!! If there are gaps it's easy to spot. You have really good right left synch.
Soldier!! I fear these may not be challenging enough for fighter of your skill!! For the next MISSION go ahead and multi pick each drill. Dealers choice of multi pick. Doubles, Triples, Quads. Include a single pick version for reference. You may find multi picking to be a challenge on some of the upcoming drills, but you can do it soldier!! Back to this mission, you just....
LEVELED UP!!!
Posted by: yoncopin Apr 20 2017, 01:36 PM
Thanks Todd! I wanted to pass along my appreciation for you mentoring me with my playing. I always love reading your comments and usually crack a smile or two I think the reasons these lessons are getting easier is largely due to the work we've done up to this point. I think that's pretty great actually, because it means your bootcamp is working! I've told Gab this, but I REALLY want to get good, and since coming to GMC and learning "how to practice" I've made more progress in the last few years than the decades beforehand. I wanted to share my https://www.guitarmasterclass.net/guitar_forum/index.php?showtopic=58084&hl=, just in case you didn't catch it. I've been working this lesson as my primary daily practice for the last 5 months, and finally did it. If you have any comments about it I'd love to hear them too Thanks again!
Posted by: Todd Simpson Apr 21 2017, 03:26 AM
Well played!!! You really have come a long way in a very short amount of time. It's great to see to be honest I didn't see that rec but when you do a rec shoot me a pm and I"d be happy to hop on board and grade it
Your overall technique has improved by leaps and bounds. So much so that I'm having to make the Missions harder just to provide a challenge. I don't have to do that very often.
Keep it up!!
Todd
I think the reasons these lessons are getting easier is largely due to the work we've done up to this point. I think that's pretty great actually, because it means your bootcamp is working! I've told Gab this, but I REALLY want to get good, and since coming to GMC and learning "how to practice" I've made more progress in the last few years than the decades beforehand. I wanted to share my https://www.guitarmasterclass.net/guitar_forum/index.php?showtopic=58084&hl=, just in case you didn't catch it. I've been working this lesson as my primary daily practice for the last 5 months, and finally did it. If you have any comments about it I'd love to hear them too Thanks again!Posted by: yoncopin May 5 2017, 02:53 AM
I spent a lot of time jamming this one and had a lot of fun with it. I probably had other (not recorded) jams where I was feeling it more, but I always stiffen up when the record light is on. Without memorizing a solo note for note, I kinda fuddle things up. My brain is too involved. I guess that comes with more practice So, that said, here's lesson 42
Posted by: Todd Simpson May 6 2017, 02:43 AM
Nicely done Soldier!!! This Mission is one that stops many folks dead in their tracks. It's intentionally designed to have very little structure as a mission to allow/force you to pull all that you have learned in to one focused bit. I must say I'm impressed. Your solo was melodic and powerful yet also showed some of your fllashy bits in a tasteful way. This is exactly what I like to see in this Mission. In short you freaking KILLED!!!!!!
Let's Debrief!
*Licks Galore: Not just running scales, you built a solid solo with that feels connected to the groove of the backing. I know it is not easy to be at one's best when that red light starts flashing but that's why we have these Missions to prepare you to play at your best under pressure. Whether it's live or a recording.
*Vibe and Vibe and Vibe:, You really hooked in to the groove of the tune and played with it and not against it. I can tell you spent time in the woodshed The solo feels intentional but still loose enough to sound extemporaneous. Not an easy feat but you pulled it off with grace. Nice.
*Technique: lastly you put on a clinic featuring all the techniques we have been working on. Showing you have a firm grasp of the physicality of playing good leads.
Long Story short, you just....
LEVLED UP!!!!
So, that said, here's lesson 42 Posted by: yoncopin May 16 2017, 06:55 PM
Lesson 43 double-picked!
Posted by: Todd Simpson May 17 2017, 12:18 AM
Well Fought Soldier!!!! I knew you could do it!!! A bit of multi picking does the soul good!!! It forces the hand to figure out new approaches. The inversion is especially tricky with the multi pick. You really killed it. Let's Debrief!!!
MEDALS OF HONOR
*TRICKY PICKING: You nailed the multi pick Soldier. It's a big ask on something like this and you nailed it!
*SPIFF SYNCH: The multi pick can make your synch drift, but not here!!! Not you!!Spot on.
*TRAVERSE GALORE: This entire mission is one big String Traverse Drill. It gives ample chance for the fingers to lose track of which string is being picked/fretted. If there are gaps in your Traverse, this would show them. Good news. Smooth as glass!!
In short, you FREAKING KRUSHED IT!!!!!!! and..
LEVLED UP!!!!
Posted by: Todd Simpson May 17 2017, 09:55 PM
Wanted to share this finger power drill with my students. Give it a try
Posted by: yoncopin Jun 14 2017, 02:33 AM
Lesson 44. I don't particularly love my playing here. I can't seem to crack this 110bpm-ish tempo and I can tell that the hand sync isn't where I want it to be, even at this speed. I'm watching Cael and fzalfa go a lot faster it seems and I want to be able to use those fast runs in my own music too.
Posted by: Todd Simpson Jun 14 2017, 06:52 PM
Very well done!! After hearing you mention fzalfa and cael I have an idea. The way I'm having you play this is intended to force the hand to play it slow as you have to pick every single note. It' designed to focus the hand on synch and traverse, not so much speed. However, I'd like to introduce you to a "speed cheat".
Not great for working on hand synch but very handy when playing a with a backing that's a bit brisk. What I want you to do is make one more vid of this pattern, you clearly have it nailed, and pick only when you have to. Try to use the power of your left hand as much as possible and pick as little as possible. Once per string if possible. Once you start using left hammer ons instead of picking, you'll notice a bit of a jump in practical playing speed. Your performance on this mission is exactly what I'm looking for, but now and then it's good to throw other bits in
So try it using the "cheat code" as it were and see if you can still keep it clean and and see if it doesn't raise your bpm a bit
Sarge
Posted by: yoncopin Jul 3 2017, 02:12 AM
It did raise it a bit, I went from about 103 to 120 in the two weeks I've been drilling it. Not blazing, but a solid step. What do you think?
Posted by: Todd Simpson Jul 3 2017, 03:46 AM
NICE!!! That's solid progress Soldier!! Also, did you notice how the legato approach feels a bit different? Once you know a given scale/lick/drill back and forth, try it as picked, multi picked, and legato as you did here. Being able to flow between these, mid stream, mid lick, is where we are headed But first, we are going to get you through each approach on their own til you feel really comfy on each.
You made a big jump in speed using the Legato approach. It's worth learning for the speed bump alone to be honest. Sometimes, you want to play a bit briskly and removing the picking can make it possible. The muting becomes really important here as you need to mute enough to keep string noise at bay, but not so much that you deaden the notes you are trying to legato. You have a very good start on this and I'm impressed that you picked it up this quick!
One thing to try on your own, break such licks down in to chunks such as two string chunks, three string chunks etc. and loop the bit. Simple repetition will trade the fingers to move faster than the brain can actually think. At which point you are playing by instinct rather than choosing notes one at a time. When you reach this point, you'll notice you are not thinking about notes or even finger position, your brain goes in to a kind of zen mode and it just starts to flow. It can be very relaxing, much like meditation.
Enough of all that for now, let's DEBRIEF!!!!
MEDALS OF HONOR
*TO PICK OR NOT TO PICK! THAT IS THE QUESTION!: Being able to decide when to pick and when not to, is the key to playing this type of lick in legato fashion. You did a great job on picking only when needed.
*SMOOTH AS SILK: Your legato technique is quite smooth and flows well. It keeps within the timing and is strong enough on hammer ons as to not give it away as legato.
*HAMMER ON WHILE MUTED: This is one of the hardest things both to teach and to learn. Super Congrats, you have managed it. It's at the heart of my very own style and you show a great deal of promise using it here!
In short you just
LEVELED UP!!!!
Posted by: yoncopin Jul 3 2017, 02:47 PM
I'd say the first half of my practice was not on the legato itself, but on figuring out when to pick and on the up or downstroke. The upper strings was the particularly challenging bit. I played it very slow for a while just trying to get a comfortable picking pattern down, ignoring the actual fretting on only those top 2-3 strings.
I just touched this feeling a bit when recording this. I pushed the tempo a bit from my practice speed and when I got to the trickier upper strings I noticed for a moment my brain falling behind but my fingers were still going. I really tried to just go with it because I was already recording. It was kinda funny because as soon as I noticed it, I knew I was going to flub up the recording if I paid too much attention to what was happening
Funny because usually I am at my best when I really achieve perfect focus, no distractions, but in this case I was intentionally trying NOT to focus.
Posted by: Todd Simpson Jul 5 2017, 08:14 PM
With enough practice, your hands will almost take off on their own Overthinking it can cause them to lock up or spaz out on you. so sometimes it's best to turn the brain to zen/off and let the fingers fly The more you play, the more familiar you'll get with this and it will become part of your playing. When soloing, specifically, improvising, going to the zen spot is what many players do. They are not really thinking, as much as just feeling it. The licks sorta just flow. That's when things get really fun, when you don't have to even think about notes or frets, you just sorta let it happen.
well done on this mission and I"m glad to see you are progressing as a player in to these new realms as well All of this will serve you well as you move ahead.
Onward Soldier!!!
Sarge
I just touched this feeling a bit when recording this. I pushed the tempo a bit from my practice speed and when I got to the trickier upper strings I noticed for a moment my brain falling behind but my fingers were still going. I really tried to just go with it because I was already recording. It was kinda funny because as soon as I noticed it, I knew I was going to flub up the recording if I paid too much attention to what was happening
Funny because usually I am at my best when I really achieve perfect focus, no distractions, but in this case I was intentionally trying NOT to focus.Posted by: yoncopin Aug 20 2017, 01:30 AM
Man it's been a while, I've been playing this one over and over but just hadn't had the time to get the camera running and record it. Finally though, here it is, Lesson 45.
Posted by: Todd Simpson Aug 20 2017, 10:09 PM
Welcome back to the fight Soldier!!! I must say I'm impressed with the level of skill involved in pulling this one off. This is not an easy bit for many folks. Keeping the pull offs clean is often a stumbling block for many and then the three note per string pattern is another spot that can trip people up as it can be a confusion pattern due to so many repeated notes. Good news is, NOT SO WITH YOU!!! You seemed to have no issues at all and just KILLED IT.
Let's debrief....
1.)RIGHT HAND CONTROL: Without good right hand control, the pull off bit starts getting soaked in extra string noise. Not so with you. Your right hand stays firm and helps kill any unwanted noise so well done there.
2.)FINGER POWER: Being able to do pull offs both forward and backward is the entire point of the first two bits. Good news is you have developed some very good finger power so your pulls are very strong and very even. If the finger power is not there, the pulls sound weak and start to wobble in terms of timing. You killed it!
3.)PRECISION IN TRAVERSE: The third bit is non stop string traverse in a very tight pattern. Miss one note and the entire thing starts to fall to bits. As there are no gaps in the timing, one off note sticks out. Good news here is that you were very precise in your picking and fretting so it worked great
This is NOT an easy Mission, but with your obvious time put in, you were able to defeat it with grace. In short you just...
LEVELED UP!!!!!
**You are only 5 Missions away from your next badge (The Five Strip Chevron) which I've not given out many times in my many years teaching at GMC. It's a thing of rare happening indeed and I'll be stoked to see you reach it
keep it up!SARGE
Posted by: yoncopin Sep 1 2017, 01:49 AM
Lesson 46 ready to go Sarge! Also, in lesson 47 there is a 5-12 stretch, that can't be with your finger anchored at 5 right? Your hand has to move?
Posted by: Todd Simpson Sep 1 2017, 03:15 AM
Well Fought Soldier!! These are not easy licks to pull off by any stretch and to make things worse I haven't yet done a demo video for this one to show you guys what I"m looking for so you sorta have to wing it and guess for yourselves. Given all of that, I'm not sure how you managed it at all to be honest. I'm going to prioritize making a vid of me playing with the backing and adjust the tablature a pinch as well so things are a bit more straight forward. But despite all the obstacles, you turned in a very fine Mission Soldier!! This demo track is at the very bottom of the lesson and I just now put it up top as a soundcloud link for preview.
https://soundcloud.com/techniqueswithtodd/guitar-rock-ii-in-the-style-of
Anyhooo!
Let's debrief!!
MEDALS OF HONOR
*PRECISION: Playing with precision is the only goal of this entire affair and it's great to see you playing with more and more precision each time you do a mission. The speed will happen by itself if you just stay focused on precision!
*NOISE CONTROL: Despite using some distortion, I don't hear any unwanted string noise. Very well done on that. Adding gain makes any extra string noise show up and requires muting to be on point!
*Precision/Dexterity: You play both licks with precision and dexterity making fine use of the weakest finger, THE PINKY! Developing PINKY POWER is just critical. Great to see you playing with the pinky on lower frets instead of trying to stretch the third finger!
In short you just...
LEVELED UP!!!
*ABOUT THE NEXT MISSION: The purpose of this mission is to find out how far you can stretch your fingers in order to find out how far you have to go. The 5/12 fret stretch is possible but you may need to adjust your grip, sit in classical and take your thumb off the neck, play in "Thumbless Mode". All this would probably make more sense with a short video to show you the licks. I'm going to make a video for 47 right after I make one for 46 hopefully on Thurs. Don't worry if you can't reach the stretch as written. Just reach as far as you can, then go back down. DON"T PLAY TO THE POINT OF PAIN, this is NEVER a good plan.
Posted by: yoncopin Sep 2 2017, 04:33 PM
Lesson 47 ready to go!
Posted by: Todd Simpson Sep 2 2017, 08:28 PM
YOU ARE ON A ROLL SOLDIER!!!!! I've not seen this kind of drive and ferocity in quite some time. It's good to see a player earning the crap out of it!!!! Despite the fact that you are playing "Side Sadle" (on the right leg instead of classical position) you still manage to get an impressive stretch! That position stresses the wrist when making long stretches which is why so many folks use the classical position, as it lets the hand flatten out and allows the fingers to get more reach. This lesson in particular is designed to show the advantages of such an approach.
You have shown an ability to handle curve balls being thrown your way with grace and poise. Here is another chance!!! I want you to go on "SPECIAL FORCES DUTY" and try these bits while sitting in classical position and see if you can't get a bit more stretch out of your fingers.
Also, try to use a different method of multi picking for each and every one of these. DEALERS CHOICE as to which method you use. Singles, doubles, triples, quads.
keep up your killer muting technique and your assassin level hand synch and you will KILL the BLACK OPS version of this Mission.
You are really killing it Soldier!! I want you to keep your momentum while challenging you right to the edge of your ability!!!
Here is a Demo of doing a big stretch, sitting in classical position and playing "Thumbless" which is yet another trick to allow the fingers to stretch more. Employing all of these "tricks" I'm able to make the stretch at speed while doing hammer ons/pull offs.
FIGHT ON!!!
Sarge
Posted by: yoncopin Sep 4 2017, 02:21 AM
Okay, Black ops accepted, here's the video. I played this double picked and thumbless in the classical position. In this position I could stretch a hair more, but not much. I actually tried to stretch my fingers apart with my other hand just to see how far they could physically be apart. I could almost reach the 11th fret, no way it's getting to 12 without a lot more effort.
Posted by: Todd Simpson Sep 6 2017, 04:41 AM
NOW YOUR TALKING!!! That's exactly what I was hoping to see Soldier!!!! You were able to get some more distance, just by make a few changes. Well done!!!! Your guitar is better positioned, your hands are better positioned, even your fingers are in better form. Very nice!
Let me break down what the key to "Crazy Stretch" technique with one picture. It's from the video I shared. Check this out.
*Notice how far away my thumb is from the fretboard? When playing thumbless, and especially when going for a long stretch, the thumb should naturally move down toward the floor and the fingers should flatten/straighten out a bit as your left hand rotates under the neck. so that the palm of your hand is almost vertical with the plane of the guitar neck.
*The more you rotate the hand/wrist forward like this, the more you can straighten your fingers and the more you can get out of your reach!!! See how straight my fingers are in that screen grab? I"m almost touching fret 5 and fret 12 at the same time using just this one simple technique. The trick is being able to control it once you get it
*Also, notice how I'm fretting with just the very tips of my fingers. Not using very much "meat" at all, just the very tip. This allows you to stretch very wide as you don't have to cover very much of your intended string/fret with your finger! It takes far less of the finger to make a fretted sound on a string than you might think. So finding the bare minimum amount is key for work like this.
*Center Strategy: Notice how I mostly keep my hand "centered" between the two goal frets? It all depends on the two "goal notes" you are trying to hit, as to where you center your hand. At that point, you tilt your wrist under and forward, and flatten out the fingers and just use the tips to fret like we talked about. The centering allows you to not have to adjust your hand position each time you want to hit a note. So we put all that together, and you can play crazy stretches at speed!!!
But enough about stretch work, LET'S DEBRIEF!!!
Soldier I want to Congratulate you on going BLACK OPS and making it back alive!!! Some Soldiers just slink off and die in the woods so to speak. Not you. You powered through it and made it happen! Your multi picking is coming along very nicely indeed!
MEDALS OF HONOR
*MULTI PICKING FROM HELL! Despite the challenge of multi picking, you stayed the course and kept going. That's showing grit soldier!!!
*CLEAN EXECUTION: Despite the flurry of picking, I don't hear any random string noise. You keep everything high and tight and well muted!
*ASSASSIN GRADE PRECISION: Speed is a byproduct of precision and your playing in a very precise manner here.
*SYNCH, SYNCH, SYNCH: With multi picking, if you are off in terms of your hand synch, it shows!!!! You can't miss one strike without it being very obvious. Good news is you don't miss strikes!
CASUALTIES OF WAR
*On the downside, I did notice that you seemed to "Lag" (fall behind the beat) just slightly during certain parts either from trying to boost the metronome a bit to far, or focusing too intently on the multi picking. Not to worry though, this will fix itself with more time in the BOOTCAMP!!!
So in short, you came back from a very dangerous mission Soldier and just...
LEVELED UP!!!
**(You are only 3 Missions away from the much Vaunted, RARELY given QUINTUPLE CHEVRON BADGE!)
P.S. I took some of this huge post and added it to the lesson page. I hope it helps!
http://bit.ly/shredjourney47
Posted by: yoncopin Sep 21 2017, 07:42 PM
Lesson 48 ready!
Posted by: Todd Simpson Sep 22 2017, 08:31 PM
I watched this many times and even came back to it a day later to be sure Soldier. You are doing really good work on this and you have the basic techniques down, but watch the video one more time and focus on the last bit of tapping work. Notice that I'm playing it 4 times at each position and that the lick is a looping lick, so you should be able to play it at least two times through, four times at each position, and have it sound smooth. You are really close on this one, it's a LOT to put in to one Mission as it's really four missions stuffed in to one. The hardest part is probably the tapping bit at the end. If you can just record the tapping bit only, looped twice, played four times at each position, you will have earned your next badge Soldier!!!
Sarge
Posted by: yoncopin Sep 23 2017, 02:29 AM
Yeah, I agree. I kind of mailed it on the tapping bit. I don't have a lot of interest in that technique, so I kinda "skimmed" it. I'll make a better take this weekend.
Sarge
Posted by: yoncopin Sep 24 2017, 04:23 PM
Ok, here is a much improved take on the tapping.
Posted by: Todd Simpson Sep 25 2017, 06:13 AM
Now you are talking Soldier!!! I knew you could pull this off I hear you though, not every technique is going to be one that really skips your rocks as it were. Great to see you power through it! Let's Debrief both bits!
MEDALS OF HONOR
*Bonus points again for that spiff Ibby. Always happy to see her brought in to the Fray!!!!! I may be a pinch Biased. Just a pinch.
-TIMING TIMING TIMINE: All of these licks are built to show you if there are any gaps/problems in your timing. There is a distinct LACK of space between notes, demanding that you get to the next spot, without any kind of gap or hand reset. This is to encourage you to find a 'center strategy" with your right hand which you have done quite well!
-PRECISION PRECISION PRECISION: I have noticed that you have been playing in a very precise manner for quite some time now and it's great to see. Without precision, the rest of it falls apart. Once you have some precision, the rest gets much easier, much quicker.
-PICKING AND OR TAPPING: Whether picking, or tapping, you have very good right/left hand synch and very tight picking. Also, nicely muted through out which is also key. In short, YOU ARE GETTING IT!!!!
Also, you are just a couple Missions away from your next Chevron Rank Up!!! I have not handed out many level 51 badges since starting Bootcamp and I'd be stoked to see you sporting one Soldier!!!
Sarge
Posted by: yoncopin Sep 26 2017, 01:23 AM
Oh my goodness, sooo much tapping Lesson 49 ready to go!
Posted by: Todd Simpson Sep 26 2017, 09:33 AM
You are on a ROLL Soldier!!! You really kicked it in Ass!!! These are not simple tapping/hammering patterns. These are four finger taps with open strings in them, so it's a 5 note tapping sequence. Many folks will do the simple "Eddie Vanhalen" approach and use a 3 note tap in a closed position. Adding the open string in there really "opens" things up IMHO and frees the hand to find new places on the neck to play. I hope you were able to gleen some of this from this Mission Soldier!! Let's Debrief!
MEDALS OF HONOR
*PUSHING TO TARGET: Despite not being a big fan of Tapping, you attacked this lesson, in all it's complexity and made it your B***H! Score.
*PRECISION REIGNS: With Four Note tapping sequences, especially involving open strings, any gap in playing or any pull / tap that's not quite right sticks out like a sore thumb. I'm guessing you found this out as you worked through this mission. The good news is that by the time came for VIDEO, you were READY!!!! Nailed it.
PULLING TO OPEN: Pulling off to an open string is something that some folks struggle with, if this gave you pause, you sure didn't show it here. You RAWKED through the mission with aggressive style. Double Score!
In short you made short work of it Soldier!!! Keep up your Momentum!! ONWARD!!!! Oh yeah, you just ....
LEVELED UP!!!
Lesson 49 ready to go!Posted by: yoncopin Oct 6 2017, 08:07 PM
Lesson 50, ready!
Posted by: Todd Simpson Oct 9 2017, 03:20 AM
Soldier I've been struggling with this one as I can see that you've put in the time here! I did replay the last bit several times including the last note. It's not quite as strong as the others, though you do fret it, and you are thumbless while doing it. Let's just DEBRIEF!!!
MEDALS OF HONOR
*TUFF BY DESIGN: This lesson is designed to make you work your bum off in terms of your LEFT HAND. It forces you to play a complex, reversing, pattern, using only the power in your fingers. NO PICKS ALLOWED once you get past the first bit. I must say I'm impressed with how you handled it soldier. I've seen many folks try this and do nowhere near as good. Score!
*THUMBLESS : One of the hardest things for some folks to get a handle on is playing without their thumb connected to the neck in any way. Some folks can do it, some folks really struggle. Either way it's not natural, especially at first. However, it's a GREAT way to focus on your finger power as you can't use the thumb as a fulcrum! After watching your thumbless bit over and over, it's more than good enough to get you badged up!! Double Score!
*PRECISION: These Missions are all about precision. Especially in a lesson like this where even one mistake will blow the entire thing. There is nowhere to hide when you can't pick, and you can't even use your thumb!! Triple Score!
In short Soldier, you just....
LEVELED UP!!!!
*You are one of our HIGHEST RANKING Soldier EVER! Let me repeat that, EVER!!!! Here in BOOTCAMP. Many congrats on that!! It's been a long and winding road and you've earned it!! Keep up your momentum Soldier!! There are some really fun bits ahead that I hope you can incorporate in to your playing
Sarge
Posted by: yoncopin Oct 10 2017, 09:18 PM
My speed is definitely improving, I kind of had an epiphany the other day about my speed and specifically the picking speed of my right hand. I can't quite explain the revelation, but I think I'm on the verge of a significant step. I've been spending more time with the multipicking, both in this lesson and when jamming backing tracks, trying to switch between 1/2 1/4 1/8 1/16 notes and stay in time. I went ahead and multipicked this lesson too. I think I see how the improvement is going to come even if I can't articulate it.
Posted by: yoncopin Oct 11 2017, 02:18 PM
I'll try to expand on what I said about the right hand picking. I think the revelation was that when practicing and jamming, I just never move my right hand that fast. If I never challenge it to move fast (even on a a single string, not skipping), how would I ever be able to play fast when I want to, even IF my left hand was fast enough? When playing with a backing track the other day, I just tried to multipick everything I'd usually play AND shift the speed by changing the note subdivisions occasionally. I realized two things, my right hand isn't that fast and I couldn't stay in time when shifting speed. It seems so obvious, but it was a real ah-ha! moment where I identified a limiter and now can work to improve it.
Posted by: Todd Simpson Oct 11 2017, 05:46 PM
Nice!!!! Great to hear you are at a breakthrough point It often takes a while to get to that spot, where you can feel a big improvement happening. These Missions are designed to force you to think about your picking hand while also thinking about your fretting hand. So that they can be doing different things but in synch. These patters get wonky as they are very similar. So super congrats on keeping them straight! It's very easy to play the wrong pattern due to the similarity, but you nailed it. Love to see this kind of progress Also, your MULTI PICKING is quite strong and forces you to reconsider up or down stroke when traversing.
MEDALS OF HONOR
*PRECISION: An increase in precision is an increase in speed, congrats.
*FOCUS: Never missed a note. SCORE!
*TIMING: Never lagged or pushed. DOUBLE SCORE!
In other words you just ...
LEVELED UP!!!!!
*BTW CONGRATS Soldier, you just went up to the next level Chevron Badge. I have not given many of these out in over half a decade of Bootcamp. Well done. Fight on!!
Posted by: Todd Simpson Oct 16 2017, 08:10 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: yoncopin Oct 25 2017, 01:58 AM
Lesson 52 ready to go, glad to have you back!
Posted by: Todd Simpson Oct 27 2017, 05:17 AM
WELCOME BACK TO ME!!! Great to be here. Almost missed this one in all the Chaos!! Sorry for the lag and I'm glad you are moving on step closer to TOP DAWG in the BOOTCAMP!! Let's Debrief!!
MEDALS OF HONOR
*SYNCH: Great to see you getting so comfy with hand synch. This is something I've seen folks really struggle with and you seem like you are really getting a good handle on it. SCORE!!
*MUTE: Just enough palm mute. Too much, and you squash all the tone, too little, and you get too much ring and notes are not distinct. You hit the "Goldilocks" Zone and have it just right DOUBLE SCORE!!!
*TRAVERSE PICKING: Yet another area where folks really struggle. This Mission is built to show you any gaps in your traverse and / or your mute. The good news is I don't see any gaps. You play the entire things in a smooth and deliberate way. TRIPLE SCORE!!
In other words you just..
LEVELED UP!!!
Posted by: yoncopin Nov 5 2017, 10:19 PM
Here's Lesson 53 and I'm planning to get in on the Quick Licks this week. I fell out of my practice habits a bit and need to get my routine back.
Posted by: Todd Simpson Nov 6 2017, 03:23 AM
WELCOME BACK!!! This is some fine playing Soldier!!! This is NOT an easy bit for most folks and you just KRUSHED it. Keeping the pace nice and even is often a stumbling block as is switching from third finger to pinky in a single beat. Not so with you though. A fine example of dexterity and skill. Let's Debrief!!!! (looking forward to your QUICK LICKS as well!)
MEDALS OF HONOR
*MULTIFINGER POWER: Switching from third finger to pinky finger in less than a beat and keeping pace. Score!!!
*PACE CAR: Keeping a solid pace with all this traverse going on is not always easy. You make it look easy though! Double Score!!
*CLEANLINESS IS NEXT TO GODLINESS: Pick and Played clean as a whistle. Triple Score!!
In short you made short work of it Soldier!! Great to see you fighting in such good form!!! You are more than ready for the next Mission!! And you just....
LEVELED UP!!!!
Sarge
Posted by: yoncopin Nov 8 2017, 02:32 AM
Lesson 54 ready to go Sarge!
Posted by: Todd Simpson Nov 8 2017, 02:47 AM
Solder you are DRILLING AND KILLING!! This is what I wanna see!! Love the aggressive style! The flame top on that Ibby is just saaaweeet! let's debrief!
MEDALS OF HONOR
*LIKE A ROCK: You are developing a really solid right hand technique by keeping your hand planted on the bridge for quick access to muting and rotating your hand to get to different strings. Very good technique Soldier!
*STEADY AS SHE GOES: Your playing is very stead and well paced. Even that last lick which is very hard to keep together toward the end is very tight. Well done on keeping synch with time!
*PICKING LIKE A BOSS: Your picking is very good, even during string traverse. Your hands look like they are getting more comfy with the guitar!
In short you freaking KRUSHED it and your gaining ground on the top spot in Bootcamp! Keep it up!! And you just lll
LEVELED UP!!!
Posted by: yoncopin Nov 21 2017, 02:10 AM
Here we go, lesson 55 is ready!
Posted by: Todd Simpson Nov 21 2017, 03:17 AM
A Black Flamed Maple Ibby Always brightens my day Soldier!!!!! Not to mention, you are RIPPING IT!!!!! Very well fought Soldier. Even the long run is in top form. This method of running scales is very handy indeed. It can be applied to any scale that you want. It makes for great long scale runs in solos. Great to see you have a good handle on it!! LET'S DEBRIEF!!!
MEDALS OF HONOR
*TENSION FREE: I"ve noticed that you are getting MUCH better at playing with a reduced level on tension on both hands. This is something that is great to see. Playing with too much tension restricts precision, speed, and endurance. It's a great way to stunt one's playing. Very glad to see you are able to play with a light touch.
*PINKY POWER:Very stoked to see you using your pinky here. I kid you not, I've seen folks try this with the first three fingers. It's quite a lot of work doing this with the first three. It's not a great way to go about it. You have a really good command of the weakest finger and it's great to see.
*MINIMUM WAG: Your picking is nice and tight, as it should be. You don't allow any one pick stroke to go too far from the string. This is a critically important. If you let any one pick strike go to far from the string, you increase the amount of time needed to make it back to the string and it can throw off timing.
In short, you have really shown great progress and your overall technique is vastly improved. Also, you are way ready for the crazy bits that are coming up
Oh yeah, and you just...
LEVELED UP!!
Posted by: yoncopin Nov 21 2017, 02:31 PM
That is my go to guitar now, it sounds great and checks all my boxes for comfort and features. I swapped the pickups for Dimarzio's Mo'Joe and PAF Joe and added locking tuners, but the guitar itself only cost $300. That is nuts to me, so good for the money. I have been playing my RG570 a lot more lately too. I floated the trem again and fixed the return to neutral issue I had by polishing the knife edges and some new posts.
I've been trying to learn this Richie Faulkner solo. I've got the notes for about the first 0:40 but there is a ton of nuance in there. The speed of course, but the trills, whammy tricks and I discovered the unison bends on a trem require bending both strings because otherwise it goes out of tune. I'm a long way from being able to play it like he does, which can be discouraging at times, but for the moment it's got my interest so I'm going to keep plugging away at it.
Tension Free
I can usually play things a bit faster than I post in the video, but I feel like there is some tension/anxiousness there when I do. I think it was klasaine who said it, but he said something like if you can't sit down and play a thing right out of the gate (warmed up of course), then you can't really play it. If I play something for 30 minutes I usually end up speeding up, but I judge my progress by how fast I can effectively play it "cold"
Pinky Power
This lesson was a bit tricky to figure out when to use which finger. When you move up a position was the bit that I had to figure out. When I first practiced it I was re-adjusting before the slide to lead with my third finger, because I'm much more confident that way. Eventually I decided that I wasn't doing myself any favors by avoiding what was clearly a more efficient way to lead with my pinky and after a bit of practice it came more naturally.
Minimum wag
I watched https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8XPezIRYnpA a while back and his point to try to reverse the pick right on the far side of the string really stuck with me. It was another great nugget of wisdom. They say to practice it like you want to play, so I try to do my best. I've kept your precision before speed in mind this whole time. I am definitely improving, but I do wish that speed would come NOW
Posted by: Todd Simpson Nov 22 2017, 01:49 AM
That does look like a spiff solo!! Keep breaking it down in to small chunks until each section is workable. No matter how many chunks you have to break it in to
You are making really good progress. You couldn't ask more from yourself. Keep up your momentum and you'll keep getting better as you go Some tricky bits are heading your way but you are ready for them
sarge
Posted by: Todd Simpson Dec 30 2017, 09:27 PM
Happy Holidays Soldier!! I was just wanting to touch base to see how things are going. You are one of our highest ranked members and have a great run of Victories of these Missions under your belt. Hoping you get to crack the triple digit barrier in 2018. It's never been cracked, ever. You are more than half way there!
Sarge
Posted by: Todd Simpson Dec 30 2017, 10:24 PM
BTW, this mission and it's lick are quite handy in solo building. I use this method of scale running quite a bit as a sort of "connective tissue" to tie other bits of a solo together. I also use it to run up the neck to get to the next spot in a solo without just making a big jump which sometimes doesn't sound right. Try to work this lick in to your next solo/collab/etc. I think you will find it quite handy!
Posted by: yoncopin Dec 31 2017, 02:48 PM
Happy Holidays Todd! I am still here, the holiday season put a serious dent in my practice routine though. Lots of travelling and things to attend to. I am way behind on everything, exercise, sleep, guitar. I just got home last night from a long trip and need to find my way back into my home routine. Thanks for checking on me, I'll have some progress hopefully very soon.
Posted by: Todd Simpson Dec 31 2017, 07:34 PM
I hear ya! The Holidays are great but they can be a serious time/energy drain on ones normal routine. I hope you have no difficulty making the transition. Welcome back to the fight!
sarge
Posted by: yoncopin Jan 1 2018, 10:05 PM
Lesson 56 Sarge, thanks for the kick into gear!
Posted by: Todd Simpson Jan 2 2018, 02:43 AM
Well Fought Soldier!! Each bit was really tight!! I can see a confidence in your playing that I didn't see before. Whatever you did on your vacation it somehow made you a better player! Your attacking the licks with vigor and your technique is spot on. Good muting, good finger control, hand synch, timing, it's all there!!! There are some tricky bits coming that may feel better in classical but you had no issues playing these bits side saddle. If you run across one that just feels wrong, try to switch to classical to see if it's more comfy on your arm!! For now WELL FOUGHT!!
You just......
LEVELED UP!!!
Posted by: yoncopin Jan 5 2018, 02:35 AM
Lesson 57 ready to go Sarge!
Posted by: Todd Simpson Jan 6 2018, 05:35 AM
Well fought Soldier as this is really 3 lessons in one. Each bit requires dexterity and control That second bit can be a bit confusing as it loops but inverts, and that last be has a very odd fingering. However, you didn't have any trouble at all with any of it and that's great to see. You have made wads of progress since we began and you are one of our Top Ranked Soldiers. You are just a few Missions away from getting your next upgraded mission badge. I have not given very many of these out in 7 years so it's always a good thing You show a depth of finger control, pick control, hand synch, timing and precision that is truly impressive. Keep this up and you will be the first Soldier ever to break Double Digits!! in other words you FREAKING KILLED IT and
LEVELED UP!!!
Posted by: yoncopin Jan 6 2018, 02:42 PM
Thanks for the encouragement Todd, I always appreciate it. Such a little thing has a big effect and really keeps me going. I'm getting my routine back and finding my enthusiasm again. I watched this https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zSy7JD3hGEM and then my take back to back and it just made me feel like molasses even after all this time.
Posted by: Todd Simpson Jan 6 2018, 04:38 PM
Don't be thrown off by this type of stuff, remember you are only seeing the end result. These guys could have been playing since they were teenagers.
Todd
Posted by: yoncopin Jan 7 2018, 09:48 PM
Yeah I'm sure those guys have been playing forever. Is that level even attainable at this point or do you have to have started that early? Regardless, here's lesson 58.
Posted by: Todd Simpson Jan 10 2018, 04:37 PM
NICE!!! This is truly impressive Soldier. That one lick in the middle is a HUGE stumbling block for folks as it combines odd picking patterns with odd timing for the fingers. You played it with skill and groove. The first and last bits were spot on as well and that last part is a finger twister to be sure that gets most folks either going up or going down and you went all the way without a hitch. There is a smoothness and a confidence in your playing that I've noticed recently which is great to see. You are relaxed when the camera is rolling and it shows in your playing. You started a pinch stiff which is normal but you've way gotten over it. They get a bit more compllicated as you start pushing toward double digits but you are more than ready. Congrats Soldier you are inches from your next badge up and you just ...
LEVELED UP!!!
Sarge
Posted by: Todd Simpson Jan 14 2018, 07:47 AM
BTW you are 2 MISSIONS AWAY from being tied for HIGHEST RANKING SOLDIER EVER @ GMC. Yup. That means you are 3 MISSIONS AWAY FROM BEING "THE" HIGHEST RANKING SOLIDER EVER @ GMC. Congrats
Sarge
LEVELED UP!!!
Sarge
Posted by: yoncopin Jan 14 2018, 08:09 PM
That is very exciting!! It's amazing how much motivation I get from just seeing that badge number climb. It a great motivator
Posted by: yoncopin Jan 15 2018, 05:23 PM
Lesson 59 ready to go Sarge!
Posted by: Todd Simpson Jan 16 2018, 03:14 AM
You are making this look easy Soldier!!!!! This is a tricky bit and you nailed it. I want you to push it a bit soldier!!! Take a look at the video for OVERHAND TAPPING that's part of MISSION 59. It's the DETACHED DUTY portion of the Mission but it's also the crazy quasi impossible part and therefore the most fun!!!! Give the over hand tapping bit a shot, you can use any scale/note sequence you like as long as you use at least two fingers on your left hand during the over hand tap. You can use the open strings as well if you like, just like I did or not. You don't have to have a backing, but you can if you want. Bottom line, I just wanna see you stick the landing on an OVER HAND tapping lick!!!!
Sarge
Posted by: yoncopin Jan 17 2018, 03:32 AM
Ok, here we go. I tried a pulloff lick, but my overhand tapping chops weren't up to it.
Posted by: Todd Simpson Jan 17 2018, 08:40 AM
NICE ONE SOLDIER!!!!!! You really killed it!!! I knew you could pull this off!!! You made the first part look so easy that I knew you could dig deep and do the crazy bit!!! This is NOT an easy thing to play. The primary bit is hard enough, this bit is just crazy and you pulled it off with grace. Good job on your timing / hand synch / pace / position, overall musicianship! You are displaying really good technique and control lately and you are ready to take the top spot! For now you just...
*You are one Mission away for being tied for TOP DAWG!!!!
LEVELED UP!!!!
Posted by: yoncopin Jan 20 2018, 07:37 PM
Lesson 60 ready to go! I didn't use a click track on this one and instead started slow and sped the licks up. The third bit was really hard to get a strong note when changing strings without other string noise.
Posted by: Todd Simpson Jan 20 2018, 08:20 PM
WELL FOUGHT! This mission is flat out difficult. It's intended to force a player to get stronger using fingers only on the left hand. Once you get used to doing these kinds of licks, picking becomes a tone choice, not something that has to be done. Also, you can make long scale runs and pick just now and then. You are using very little gain here which is commendable. These get harder the less gain you use. I really am impressed that you were able to use the pinky on these. Some folks just can't manage the pinky without a pick. If you can get the pinky going without needing a pick, you have made a HUGE leap forward as a player imho. It opens up a wide variety of licks that are not possible otherwise. Let's Debrief!
MEDALS OF HONOR
*PINKY POWER: Well done on using the tiny finger without a pick!
*PACE: You have a good sense of timing on these which is impressive given that you can't use the pick!
*PRECISION: Hitting all of these with enough power to make a note without hitting the wrong fret is not easy. Nice!
This is a tough mission indeed. Keep doing these types of drills and apply them to every scale and lick that you know. It will make your left hand stronger and that's the key to a huge library of licks. In other words you just..
LEVELED UP!!!
*Keep it up Soldier! You are making great progress! One step away from Top Dawg!!
Sarge
Posted by: yoncopin Jan 22 2018, 10:09 PM
Lesson 61, ready to go!
Posted by: Todd Simpson Jan 22 2018, 11:51 PM
WELL DONE!! This mission is all about the STREEEEEETCH and using the pinky to increase one's reach. You are showing a really good command of reach and a good command of PINKY POWER!!! Add something from this mission to your daily workout/warmup routine in order to keep your nice stretch going and also try to move this down to the first/second frets if possible to push your stretch a bit further. Also, try this patter going up and down all the strings. If you can run it top to bottom you are well on your way to being able to play a huge wad of licks that require a big stretch.
One more thing. You just tied for the TOP DAWG!!! We have not had a tie for the top spot in quite some time. You and FZALFA are officially sparring for the top spot As they said in Highlander "THERE CAN BE ONLY ONE!" but for now we have two
MUCHO congrats on your achievement here. It's well earned. Very few folks have the STAR OF HONOR on their badge.
Well, one person to be exact, currently, until today. In other words you just ...
LEVELED UP!!!
Todd
Posted by: yoncopin Jan 29 2018, 12:08 AM
Lesson 62, ready to go Sarge! This one was the most challenging lesson than I've had in a while. I really wanted to focus on small movements and good control so my speed isn't that high. I'm going to try and continue practicing it, because my string changing and picking just isn't a fast or controlled as I'd like. I didn't want to get stuck for too long on one lesson, but this technique definitely needs work.
Posted by: Todd Simpson Jan 29 2018, 05:11 AM
You did well Soldier! This is not an easy bit for sure. This requires massive amounts of string traverse while playing complex arp shapes at the same time. This is one of the "Gateway Missions" that is there to see if you are ready to take the next step. After this mission, you get a six chevron badge. I've only given out one of those in Bootcamp EVER, just a bit ago to FZALFA. You two are trading the top spot back and forth Let's debrief!
MEDALS OF HONOR
*MUTE GAME IS STRONG: If you skimp on muting, this Missions sounds like MUSH, well done.
*PICK GAME IS STRONG: Precision picking, hitting only the strings you plan to hit. Not easy with this much traverse.
*ARTICULATION: Each shape is a bit different and at a different position, smoothly done.
In other words, you just ..
LEVELED UP!!
Sarge
Posted by: yoncopin Jan 29 2018, 07:44 PM
Lesson 63 ready to go Sarge!
Posted by: Todd Simpson Jan 31 2018, 07:09 PM
That was honestly perfect. I could not have asked for anything more. Your smooth articulation is impressive soldier. SUPER CONGRATS SOLDIER!!!! You really had to dig in to this one. It's not an easy Mission. HUGE STREEEEETCH and multiple parts to get a hold of before you can even attempt a video. This is where things start to get interesting and we separate the Men from the Boys as it were. It's only uphill from here but you are more than ready. Let's Debrief!
MEDALS OF HONOR
*SYNCH: Per usual you have really tight right and left hand synch. One slip and it would show up.
*STRETCH: This requires a huge stretch and you nail it!
*PRECISION: If you play this Mission sloppy, it shows up quick. You handled it with a high degree of precision.
In other words you just...
LEVELED UP!!! AND ARE RECIEVING THE SECOND 6 CHEVRON BADGE EVER AWARDED @ GMC!!!! 
Congratulations!
Sarge
Posted by: yoncopin Jan 31 2018, 09:11 PM
Lesson 64 AND Lesson 65! Because I'm the champ!
Posted by: Todd Simpson Feb 2 2018, 05:06 AM
Two at once!! That's what I call KILLING it Soldier! Both of these are multi part lessons that usually take folks a while to learn each part. Nope. You nailed em both at once. You missed the top spot by inches as Fzalfa got #66 just in time. You two keep trading the top spot and it's good competition to push you both to be better players! It sure seems to working your playing is improving each time! Let's debrief.
MEDALS OF HONOR
*ZERO NOISE: Any string noise sticks on on single string work as you are only wanting to hear one string. Sympathetic vibrations of the other strings can ring unless muted. Not here well done!
*TIGHT SYNCH: Spot on right and left hand synch.
*CONFIDENCE IS HIGH: You are playing with the confidence of a seasoned pro, I sense no hesitation in your playing at all. Nicely done!
In other words you just.....
LEVELED UP!!!
Posted by: yoncopin Feb 2 2018, 05:10 AM
Well I guess it's a good thing that I have lesson 66 ready to go!
Posted by: Todd Simpson Feb 2 2018, 05:58 AM
That was quick!!!! Nicely played! It's based off a classical bit so there is a pinch of finger twisting involved but you made it look simple! Lets debrief!..
MEDALS OF HONOR
*FINGER TWISTING: This little diddy is built to turn your fingers in to a knot. You blew through it with ease!
*TRAVERSE: This one is non stop string traverse. Miss one string and it falls apart, you didn't miss any!
*TIME: Smooth as glass and lick clockwork!
In other words you just...
LEVELED UP!!
*ALSO YOU ARE AGAIN TIED FOR TOP DOG WITH FZALFA!!
Well Done!
Sarge
Posted by: yoncopin Feb 3 2018, 03:20 AM
... and here it is, Lesson 67
Posted by: Todd Simpson Feb 3 2018, 05:40 AM
BEHOLD HE WHO WOULD NOT BE VANQUISHED!!!! Well Fought Soldier!! Let's Debrief!!....
This is NOT an easy Lesson. The goal here is to force your hand to play some very different bits back to back in order to allow your hand to adapt. You adapt quite well! You attack each lick with Pride and Purpose.
MEDALS OF HONOR
*FORM IS ON POINT: I've watched your form get better and better. I'm still amazed you can play all this stuff side saddle!
*TIMING IS ON POINT: I'm starting to think you are hearing a Metronome in your head. This is the key to being able to keep time IMHO. If you can hear the beat/click in your head, even if it's not present, you can play to the "Ghost Click" and keep on beat, nice!
*NOISE FREE: Your Muting Game remains Strong! A nice planted right hand. A very handy technique that you've adopted well.
In short, you are using all of the tips / tricks you've learned so far to be ablet to slash your way through these difficult multi part Missions. Keep going!!! In other words you just....
LEVELED UP!!!! *ALSO YOU JUST TOOK THE TOP SPOT!!!!!!!! CONGRATS!!
Sarge
Posted by: yoncopin Feb 3 2018, 08:35 PM
Lesson 68!
Posted by: Todd Simpson Feb 3 2018, 10:37 PM
You are half way there Soldier!! Take this scale pattern and apply it to E Minor at the 12th fret. same open string then fret three notes approach using our three note per string version of the Minor scale that we always used in vid chat. The tricky bit about this lesson is that there isn't any Tablature for the second part of the lesson. I want to see if you can take a given way of running up the strings and apply it to a real scale.
Let me know if this makes no sense.
Todd
Posted by: yoncopin Feb 4 2018, 02:36 AM
I’m on it! I thought that seemed like an especially short lesson.
Posted by: Todd Simpson Feb 4 2018, 07:16 AM
It's quite short The big part is the figuring out how to apply that approach to a scale without any sort of guide/tab/vid etc. You are the test case here. Depending on how you do I may end up adding a vid or tab. Nobody has made it this far so we are winging it a bit
Sarge
Posted by: yoncopin Feb 8 2018, 02:03 AM
Ok, now this one is really short
The big part is the figuring out how to apply that approach to a scale without any sort of guide/tab/vid etc. You are the test case here. Depending on how you do I may end up adding a vid or tab. Nobody has made it this far so we are winging it a bit Sarge
Posted by: Todd Simpson Feb 8 2018, 02:45 AM
Nailed it!!!!! That's the bit I wanted to see. No tablature, just figuring it out and playing it. NICE!!! Love that silver Ibby too Always a good choice. Let's debrief!!!
MEDALS OF HONOR
*YOU FIGURED IT OUT!!! No Tab Required, SCORE!
*SOLID TECHNIQUE: Double Score!!!
*CASUAL PLAY: Not stressing, not tensing, just playing, Triple Score!!!
In other words you just....
LEVELED UP!!!!
Sarge
Posted by: Todd Simpson Feb 10 2018, 03:57 AM
Don't lose your momentum Soldier!!! You are inches from the top spot!!
Sarge
Posted by: yoncopin Feb 11 2018, 12:23 AM
Ask and you shall receive, Lesson 69.
Sarge
Posted by: Todd Simpson Feb 11 2018, 02:45 AM
Well Fought Soldier!!! You really have a great roll going! Keep it up! This lesson has more bits than should be humanly possible and the hardest bit is at the end of course Just to make you earn the crap out of it!!! You are in rare territory here. Let's Debrief!...
MEDALS OF HONOR
*Aggressive Style: Attacking the lesson with all guns drawn and all techniques brought to bear.
*Precision on Display: Speed being a byproduct of precision, you got serious precision.
*Even did the Hammering Bit!!: That last bit is meant to be a stumbling block, but you got it!!
In other words you just;....
LEVELED UP!!!!
Posted by: yoncopin Feb 15 2018, 05:09 AM
This lesson was some serious business. I've been practicing it, but tonight I practiced it for a while, then played other things for a bit and then decided to record it. I wanted to get it all recorded in one sitting so the fatigue is a factor. It turned out to be double-fatigue since I had spent so long on it in my early practice. I think I was most pleased with my 1-3-5 fret stretch and 70B with the legato pulloffs.
Posted by: Todd Simpson Feb 15 2018, 08:37 AM
WELL FOUGHT SOLDIER!!! This is some killer work. This Mission is all about STAMINA. You should be able to play one of these most of the way up the neck without pain. As you practice these, you will be able to go up and down, then up and down and back up and so on. You can develop some amazing stamina. The secret is to not press to hard on any one note and to not clench to tight with the thumb on the back of the neck. That's what these are intended to teach. The more you play them, the more your hand will realize what the least amount of effort is required in order to play and keep playing. This is the real key to stamina. Pacing yourself and not over committing to any one note or series of notes.
You seem to have a really good handle on this as I don't see you tensing or stressing at all on these. It's great to see! As you increase your stamina, you will be able to play at the very edge of your ability, and do so for as long as you like!
Let's debrief.
MEDALS OF HONOR
*STAMINA!: The name of the game and the entire point of this mission and you KILLED IT!!
*TECHNIQUE: Your technique is on point Soldier!! Keep it up!
*AGGRESSIVE STYLE: You attack each drill with verve. Nice!
Soldier, you have just made it to some very rare air indeed. You've earned it and you are ready for what's next!!
In other words you just...
LEVELED UP!!!*ALSO!! YOU ARE TIED FOR TOP DAWG!!!!!!!
Sarge
Posted by: yoncopin Feb 21 2018, 02:57 AM
Lesson 71 ready!
Posted by: Todd Simpson Feb 21 2018, 04:37 AM
That was freaking TOP NOTCH Soldier!! First off, great tone. Not too much gain and I can hear each note and each pick stroke.
Getting your tone to this level takes a significant degree of tweaking. Time well spent. Is that a HELIX? What is your tone coming from? As for your playing KILLER ELITE. This is a FREAKING HARD AS CRAP Mission. No other way to put it. It's based on a series of slightly different arps combined with my fave scale inversion pattern. It's soooo easy to miss one note somewhere along the line and then you gotta start from scratch. This is the spot where the Missions really get sorta stiff. At this point you have been doing missions out the wazoo so you are more than ready for the tricky bits. The good news is that you not only played it, you made it look easy! You are more than ready for what lay ahead Soldier!!! Well freaking done.
Let's Debrief!!
MEDALS OF HONOR
*CLEAN AS A WHISTLE: Not a note out of place, not a finger out of fret range. Nice!
*QUIET AS DEATH: Not a pinch of string noise. This bit covers most of the strings in fast traverse. This requires good muting of nearly every string, while playing them. Not an easy bit for folks with bad muting. Good news, your muting RAWKS.
*ANGRY AS HELL: You attacked the Mission with Verve and Aggression. That's what I like to see!!!!
In short you just killed it and ..
LEVELED UP!!!!
Posted by: yoncopin Feb 22 2018, 04:11 AM
Thanks Todd! Yes, my tone is coming from a Helix. I've been using this tone for about a month now. I tend to use one for a long time and then learn a bit or feel like tinkering and make a new patch from scratch with new techniques. This one is based on an Uberschall and I have a slightly lower gain JCM800 one I use too. The big change this time was exploring and better understanding the palette of impulse responses I have, the Ownhammer Core Tone & Heavy Hitters I.
Thanks for the compliments on my playing. I'm back to being a bit more methodical with the lessons and trying to get the most out of them. I've been practicing https://www.guitarmasterclass.net/ls/Basic-Rock-Guitar-Bending-Vibrato/ for a while now too and have been drilling that final speed lick a lot. It seems so blazing fast that I don't know if I can ever move that quick.
Getting your tone to this level takes a significant degree of tweaking. Time well spent. Is that a HELIX? What is your tone coming from? As for your playing KILLER ELITE. This is a FREAKING HARD AS CRAP Mission. No other way to put it. It's based on a series of slightly different arps combined with my fave scale inversion pattern. It's soooo easy to miss one note somewhere along the line and then you gotta start from scratch. This is the spot where the Missions really get sorta stiff. At this point you have been doing missions out the wazoo so you are more than ready for the tricky bits. The good news is that you not only played it, you made it look easy! You are more than ready for what lay ahead Soldier!!! Well freaking done.
Posted by: Todd Simpson Feb 22 2018, 06:44 PM
After watching your progress, I think you can play anything you put your mind too Ones own "speed barrier" is something that takes a while to crack. Stay loose, don't think about individual notes, try not to think at all if possible, at speed, your really just using muscle memory (so called) and reflexes. Try playing the bit with your brain turned entirely off if that makes any sense. To do that you have to memorize the picking and fingering to the point where you can play it with your eyes closed.
Todd
Thanks for the compliments on my playing. I'm back to being a bit more methodical with the lessons and trying to get the most out of them. I've been practicing https://www.guitarmasterclass.net/ls/Basic-Rock-Guitar-Bending-Vibrato/ for a while now too and have been drilling that final speed lick a lot. It seems so blazing fast that I don't know if I can ever move that quick.
Posted by: yoncopin Mar 7 2018, 02:10 AM
Guitar room is open for business again!
Posted by: Todd Simpson Mar 8 2018, 05:22 PM
IMPRESSIVE! This is one of the really tough Missions. Here in the 70s you have shown you have what it takes to make it to the highest rankings ever seen. You and FZALFA have blazed a trail. The 70s missions are some of the most challenging in the entire series. This keeps up for quite a few missions so don't let it throw ya! On to the Debrief!..
MEDALS OF HONOR
*PICKING: Putting on a clinic on this one. Clean strikes all the way.
*MUTING: Perfect mute technique on every single one. Zero string noise despite have to traverse every string.
*PACE: Not once did I hear you rush or lag. You are getting an internal clock going. Having that sense of timing is crucial and you have it!
You just killed it. Everyone one of these could be used as the demo for Mission. Played in great form. You are in very hallowed ground and you've earned it. Keep it up. You are inches from the top spot! In other words you just..
LEVELED UP!!!!
Sarge
Posted by: yoncopin Mar 27 2018, 09:42 PM
Hey Todd,
In Lesson 73 Example D, what fingering are you using once you get to the G string? As the frets get higher my pinky starts to get cramped for space and the 3rd finger starts to make more sense but the switch is tripping my brain up. How are you intending it?
Posted by: Todd Simpson Mar 28 2018, 03:39 AM
I notfce that there are no GP5 files and there is no video file for this one which is an oversight. I'll make the gp5 files and record a video showing each example close up. For now, since this lesson is all about "PINKY POWER" and in particular, the "PINKY SLIDE" try to use the pinky for every bit that requires a slide up. The fingers will get a bit cramped, which is part of the challenge of the lesson. If you find that you simply can't play it this way without it slowing down your progress toward the next mission, just skip that part of it for now and play it in any way that your fingers can manage. You can always come back to it later and work on the pinky part. Forward progress is more important. There are plenty more chances coming to work on your pinky slides But yeah, this is a "pinky slide" lesson, and it's not easy. Using the weakest finger to lead the rest of the hand up the neck is flat out hard. Don't let it get you hung up though. Play it in any way that you can manage, but do so in precise a manner as possible.
Meanwhile I"ll get cracking on making the files/vid for this lesson. If you want to wait to see me do it in the vid, that's fine too Should be up by wed evening. Let me know of this makes sense
Sarge
In Lesson 73 Example D, what fingering are you using once you get to the G string? As the frets get higher my pinky starts to get cramped for space and the 3rd finger starts to make more sense but the switch is tripping my brain up. How are you intending it?
Posted by: Todd Simpson Mar 31 2018, 06:49 PM
I've added per note fingerings for part C and D. I'll update the lesson. Here is Part D in Guitar Pro and as an image. You can see a small number near each note, that number represents which finger should be used for each note. E.G. The pinky is 4 and the first finger is 1. I hope this helps. Let me know if this makes sense
73_Example_D.gp5 ( 2K )
: 40
Only you and Fzalfa have ever been this far up the food chain. Super congrats on making it this far!
Todd
In Lesson 73 Example D, what fingering are you using once you get to the G string? As the frets get higher my pinky starts to get cramped for space and the 3rd finger starts to make more sense but the switch is tripping my brain up. How are you intending it?
Posted by: yoncopin Mar 31 2018, 08:33 PM
Thanks! That's great, I am surprised I had it mostly "right" I was playing the last 6 notes with fingers 1-2-3, you have it as 1-2-4. I'll switch to trying that way. Thanks Todd!
Posted by: Todd Simpson Apr 1 2018, 05:13 AM
The fingerings are mostly a suggestion, in the end you gotta get your fingers to pull it off, so whatever works for you is probablyl a good thing Leading the slides with the pinky is the important bit, so as to make the pinky better at leading up the neck, which is sometimes doesn't want to do.
Todd
Posted by: yoncopin Apr 7 2018, 02:46 AM
Lesson 73 ready! I liked this one. It focused a lot on moving across the strings and was something I could see myself adapting and using. I've been pushing my speed too since I learned that REC lick. Once I get really warmed up I've been making big jumps in speed and practicing like that. Sometimes I'll have to take it back to slow to "remember" the lick but then I can go faster again. I think a plateau is being pushed!
Posted by: Todd Simpson Apr 7 2018, 10:38 PM
This is a challenge indeed. It makes use of a lot of things that we have been working on up to this point and puts them all to good use. These are all licks that can work as drills or in a solo, which is always handy I can tell that your precision / speed and control are all on the upswing. Also you are very using a very good economy of motion with your picking hand. You are not over committing to any one single strike. This is a mistake that holds some folks back for years. Once strike digs to deep, and you have to start the bit over. It's like hitting a speed bump. The good news is that I don't here any of that here. You are making clean and even strikes. Let's debrief!
MEDALS OF HONOR
*PRECISION: Each strike is clean and on point. Not one is over done. Smooth as glass.
*PACE: Not rushing or lagging. I think your internal metronome is working!!
*MUTE: Not an ounce of string noise despite all the string traverse.
This is NOT an easy bit as it contains several bits that are designed to stress your fingers and show any gaps in your ability. Good news is that I'm not seeing any gaps. That last long run is the beast of the bunch and you nailed it cold!!! In other words, you just..
LEVELED UP!!!
BTW Nice Ibby!!!!
Sarge
Posted by: yoncopin May 17 2018, 02:13 AM
Whew, finally... here it is lesson 74!
Posted by: Todd Simpson May 17 2018, 08:13 PM
Well Fought Soldier!! This is one of the Toughest Missions yet. You are in to the tall grass on this one. You comport yourself well Soldier!! This one requires some serious alternate picking and some serious finger control. Like many of the others, one slip up and you get to start over. There is no space to hide any mistakes or poor technique. The good news is, you didn't make any mistakes so Score!! Let's Debrief!
MEDALS OF HONOR*MUTE LIKE A PRO: This one has string traverse pretty much non stop. If you let up on your mute, one of the strings will passively ring. Not here. Mute Kung Fu is Strong.
*ALT PICKING ON POINT: Your Alt Picking technique continues to improve and it was always pretty good to start with. You are not "over picking" or over committing to any one strike. Instead, each strike is like a drop of rain in a storm. Not one more or less than the other.
*SYNCH LOCK: Any drift in hand synch would show up right away. You've got no issues there. Each Mission your synch gets tighters. Here's to that!
I know there are a LOT of notes to memorize in this mission and in those near it. It's a LOT to take in and not only memorize, but play without a flaw as well. That's why this Mission is so far away from number 1. You are very close to breaking triple digits Soldier. You are also getting a very good handle on the skills of Bootcamp. Things will actually seem easier once you crest the hill of Mission 100. But for now, you just..
LEVELED UP!!
Sarge
Posted by: yoncopin May 27 2018, 02:05 AM
Ok, Lesson 75. I'm not that happy with my timing on the third stretch lick, but I was trying to push the tempo a bit. I've been practicing this one enough I think and am trying to build my lesson momentum back up.
Posted by: Todd Simpson May 27 2018, 07:17 PM
Great to see you back in the FIGHT Soldier!! This is NOT an easy fight to be sure. This one requires serious pinky power and precision. It''s a great way to play three note per string versions of harmonic minor scales. I pushed them down toward the nut to make the stretch a bit more of a challenge You rise to the challenge quite well! That third lick is the beast of the bunch. It's built to make one go beyond ones normal reach to find a new way to stick the landing on crazy pinky reach type licks.
You play the third with a high degree of precision imho. It's even and steady and sounds good to me! They all look good. Let's debrief!!!!.
MEDALS OF HONOR
*PINKY POWER: This one is all about pinky power and you really stick the landing! This is impressive just by itself. Score!
*AGGRESSIVE STYLE: You really attack this one and push the envelope. That's what I love to see Soldier!! That's where gains come from. When we push ourselves just past the edge of our ability.
*TECHNIQUES O PLENTY: All of your previous work leading up to this is on display. Muting, hand synch, strikes, it's all there.
This mission is neck deep in the toughest missions you are likely to face on your way to cracking triple digits. Many a soldier is thrown off by the sheer difficulty of the task at hand. Not you Soldier!!
FEARLESS!!!
and you just.
LEVELED UP!!!!
Congrats and keep it up!
Sarge
Posted by: yoncopin May 27 2018, 07:44 PM
Oh man, "sticking the landing" is a great way to describe that third lick. I spent a lot of time trying to hit it precisely and not slide into it from the 6th fret.
Posted by: Todd Simpson May 28 2018, 04:21 AM
Sticking the landing isn't just for gymnastics! It's for guitar acrobatics as well It's one of the hardest things for the pinky to get used to. Good news is that you have clearly put the work in on it!!
Sarge
Posted by: yoncopin Jun 3 2018, 08:43 PM
This was a monster lesson! Whew, just recording it took all afternoon
Posted by: Todd Simpson Jun 4 2018, 02:39 AM
Nice!!!! Soldier, this is the longest, toughest mission that you have attacked so far. This one is a BEAR. There are just wad of bits to get right and plenty of chances to mess up. As with most bits, you miss one note, it sounds way wrong and you get to start over. The good news is that you really nailed the crap out of it and didn't miss! One shot one kill! Let's debrief!!.
MEDALS OF HONOR
*PICK ARTICULATION: This one is Looooong and when the arm gets tired, it starts to do wacky things, like pick from the elbow. The good news is that you have worked up some serious stamina Soldier! Not once did I see you picking from elbow. No sir, you keep it high and tight the entire time picking from the fingers back as God intended....
*DUAL MUTE: You use both hands to keep string noise at bay which is needed when doing bits with traverse. You keep your picking hand planted and steady and use your fretting hand as a back up mute, again spot on form. .
..
*SYNCH: Your right and left hand synch is getting better and better and it was good to start with. Your precision is increasing and as a result so is your speed ( a byproduct of precision ). Keep it up and keep pushing the envelope! Well done on this one Soldier. It's at the 3/4 mark on the way to double digits. You are in the Super Hero section of the missions. Once you shoot your way through, things will seem to get easier, despite the fact that some of it is more complex. Well done!! In other words you just...
LEVELED UP!!
Keep firing Soldier!!Sarge
Posted by: yoncopin Jun 10 2018, 08:14 PM
Lesson 77, getting back in the swing of things!
Posted by: Todd Simpson Jun 11 2018, 08:13 PM
WELL FOUGHT!!! This is yet another of the Mission designed to separate the Wheat from the Chaff. Some soldier would simply take a look at all the bits in this mission an throw up their hands. Each one of these bits could be a Mission in itself to be honest and at the lower ranks, each one of these things was a Mission!!! Not so here in the tall weeds!!!
You are completing the RITUAL that all must endure to push past the limits of ones own mind to reach the other side.
This mission combines a great many techniques that we have worked on in the 70 plus lessons that have lead to this point. Everything from Muting to proper picking and synch. The good news is that you have passed through fire and come out the other side with a very solid grasp of these techniques. They are the foundation upon which you will build your own personal "Style". It's very hard to build a style on a weak foundation. It can be done, it's just needlessly difficult.
Let's debrief!!
MEDALS OF HONOR
*TECHNIQUE ON POINT: From your muting to your hand synch and everything in between, all of your technique is brought to bear and to great effect. I don't see any gaps worth mentioning. You are well prepared for the road ahead soldier.
*AGGRESSION ON POINT: Not once do I see you back away from a lick. There is no timidity in your playing. No sense of uncertainty. This is something that is very important. Audiences can tell when a player is simply intimidates by a given lick and tune out. Not so here. Playing is bold and purposeful.
*STYLE COMING THROUGH: You are starting to create your own "Style" of play based on all that you have picked up so far. Beyond technique there is expression. Focus on allowing your inner sense of the notes/music, to pervade your playing as you go forward.
It's been an honor to watch you progress so very far soldier!! You are quite close to the Triple Digit Wall that has remained unbroken for so many years. Your quest will see you through to be the first passed it's gates if you keep up your momentum!!
Also, CONGRATULATIONS are in order. You are now TIED for the
Sarge
[color="#9932CC"][/color]
Posted by: yoncopin Jun 13 2018, 01:32 AM
Hahahahah what a great video reference Quite appropriate Thanks for all your comments, I'm gonna keep working. I like the next mission has some multipicking. I think I could benefit from more of that.
You are completing the RITUAL that all must endure to push past the limits of ones own mind to reach the other side.
This mission combines a great many techniques that we have worked on in the 70 plus lessons that have lead to this point. Everything from Muting to proper picking and synch. The good news is that you have passed through fire and come out the other side with a very solid grasp of these techniques. They are the foundation upon which you will build your own personal "Style". It's very hard to build a style on a weak foundation. It can be done, it's just needlessly difficult.
Let's debrief!!
MEDALS OF HONOR
*TECHNIQUE ON POINT: From your muting to your hand synch and everything in between, all of your technique is brought to bear and to great effect. I don't see any gaps worth mentioning. You are well prepared for the road ahead soldier.
*AGGRESSION ON POINT: Not once do I see you back away from a lick. There is no timidity in your playing. No sense of uncertainty. This is something that is very important. Audiences can tell when a player is simply intimidates by a given lick and tune out. Not so here. Playing is bold and purposeful.
*STYLE COMING THROUGH: You are starting to create your own "Style" of play based on all that you have picked up so far. Beyond technique there is expression. Focus on allowing your inner sense of the notes/music, to pervade your playing as you go forward.
It's been an honor to watch you progress so very far soldier!! You are quite close to the Triple Digit Wall that has remained unbroken for so many years. Your quest will see you through to be the first passed it's gates if you keep up your momentum!!
Also, CONGRATULATIONS are in order. You are now TIED for the
Sarge
[color="#9932CC"][/color]
Posted by: Todd Simpson Jun 13 2018, 02:15 AM
THE PAIN!!!!!!!
Keep it up Soldier!!
Quite appropriate Thanks for all your comments, I'm gonna keep working. I like the next mission has some multipicking. I think I could benefit from more of that.Posted by: yoncopin Jun 17 2018, 02:36 AM
And here comes lesson 78
Posted by: Todd Simpson Jun 19 2018, 01:17 AM
Well Fought Soldier!!! I must apologize for not having video examples for all of these licks. It's something that I've been planning to do for some time now and I think it would really help folks on these Missions where there are more than half a dozen differnt Missions stuffed in to one Mission. Without any sort of demo, you guys are left only using the tab which doesn't always convety the idea in the same way that a simple video can do. I will redouble my efforts to make vids for these and I'll start with the ones that are coming up for you guys that are neck deep in in tall weeds!!
So I"ll start with 80 and work my way up. That way the vids should be just slightly ahead of where you guys are. The "Elite Fighter Group" is bumping up against 80 and soon to be bumping up against triple digits!!! I take pride in saying you guys freaking RAWWWWWWKKK!!!!!!!
On to the debrief!!!!! This is a BEAR of a Mission. It runs the gambit from picking to pull offs. It's meant to stretch your ability by making serious requirements on your skill and ability to change gears quickly to play something entirely different. The good news is that you have a really strong grasp on all of the techniques that I throw out at you during this mission. You have put in the time and effort to earn your way up the food chain and it shows!!!! I don't know if you realize just how much your technique has improved. Go back and watch your first 10 mission vids. Then come back and watch the past 2 or 3. You'll see what I mean.
It's been great to watch you earn the crap out of it soldier!!! You have overcome many of the pitfalls that keep folks from becoming the player they want to be. You've done it in the only way possible. One practice session at a time Nobody can take this away from you. The evidence of your effort is in these vids and in your other recorded work. I'd encourage you to take every chance you can to join every collab you come across and then do some improv over some youtube backings and share them here on GMC for feedback. KRIS is a great example of how one can make use of pre built backings to dive deep in to ones own bag of tricks!! He even throws them out on facebook for wide world to see!
But speaking of KICKING ARSE!!!
MEDALS OF HONOR
*NOT TENSING: This is the one thing that I've seen make more folks stumble and even quit playing, than any other factor. It's instinctive to tense up when playing something one is not certain about or when playing a bit brisk. Sadly, this is THE WORST thing one can do. It's an AWFUL habit that simply wrecks ones ability to make progress. The good news is that you have learned to play without "tensing up" and keep your hands a bit relaxed which is the key to keeping on the path of making gains!!
*NOT ELBOW PICKING: Another thing that just wrecks many folks. Picking from the elbow is a cardinal sin IMHO. The good news is that you never make that sin. You have learned to pick from the fingers back instead of the elbow forward. This is the key to unlocking the precision / speed that all of us have within us. It certainly unlocked mine!
*NOT RUSHING/LAGGING: The last bit in our TRINITY OF SHRED that keeps many of the faithful from entering the Heavenly Way of Awesome Play. Folks often don't lock to the beat, even if that beat is just their own internal metronome. Some folks never develop an internal metronome. So you can hear them rush/lag when no drums/click is present. Most of these folks simply can't play/record without that click track going for example, when using their daw. They can't lock in on the drums. They can't count time, they gotta have that click, like a training wheel that can't be taken off. To each his own of course, but I'm always glad to see a player that can keep time using their internal metronome.
So this then is the NOT list of things to avoid. The Holy Trinity of DEATH. DEATH of ones ability to progress that is. Thankfully you sir have avoided these pitfalls wth grace and skill and persistence.
Keep up your momentum and your focus. You are pushing through the hardest bits you'll ever see in the "Journey". The journey and everything else will start to seem easier once you cross the Triple Digit Hump.
Also, CONGRATULATIONS are in order. You are the new TOP DAWG !!!! Nicely done Soldier!!!
Sarge
Posted by: yoncopin Jun 20 2018, 05:48 PM
Thanks Todd! I always really appreciate your feedback. Everytime I read one of your responses I get a little boost of motivation and encouragement. Thanks a lot for taking the time to write them I actually can't tell that much how my technique has improved. Having old videos to watch is fantastic, but I still sometimes wonder if I've even come that far. I know the answer is yes, but it's really great to hear you say. It'll be the two year anniversary of my Shred Journey tomorrow, that seems like a looong time, sometimes I do wonder if I'll ever "get there".
This is a great quote
As long as I'm playing things correctly, you don't necessarily have to make videos for my sake. They'd always be nice, but you're here to ask questions if I have them and the GuitarPro files are useful too.
Posted by: Todd Simpson Jun 20 2018, 09:56 PM
Happy to help I'm always here for ya!! I planned on making videos for every single chunk of BOOTCAMP and I'm still gonna. I want it to be as complete as possible. So it's for everyone!!!
You nailed it when you talk about just trying to keep taking steps forward. That's all anyone can do. Just keep going, not give up, try to find a way to make it as fun as possible along the way If it seems tedious it's time to switch gears and play something just for giggles. No matter what you are playing, even if it's something you've played a million times, you are still playing! Every single second you spend on the instrument is adding to your overall experience as a player. So every bit of play time has value IMHO, no matter what you are playing. You can always polish a bit up just a pinch more, even if it's a song/lick you play a lot.
You've made big strides since you started, I can certainly see it! In the grand scheme a couple years playing isn't that long of a time, even though it can feel like forever The more fun you can make it for yourself, the less you will notice the "work" aspect of it. After all, playing guitar should be a joyful thing. Something that one looks forward to. Sometimes we get so focused on playing a certain thing that we forget the bigger picture. The more fun it is, the more you'll do it and the more you'll enjoy the process. So finding ways to keep it enjoyable is the key and it's different for every player. Keep it up!!
Todd
I actually can't tell that much how my technique has improved. Having old videos to watch is fantastic, but I still sometimes wonder if I've even come that far. I know the answer is yes, but it's really great to hear you say. It'll be the two year anniversary of my Shred Journey tomorrow, that seems like a looong time, sometimes I do wonder if I'll ever "get there".This is a great quote That's really all you can focus on, is picking up the guitar everyday and doing something/anything to improve. Some days are more focused than others, but I do try to just keep taking steps forward, even really tiny ones. I hope in the end that gets me where I want to be.
As long as I'm playing things correctly, you don't necessarily have to make videos for my sake. They'd always be nice, but you're here to ask questions if I have them and the GuitarPro files are useful too.
Posted by: yoncopin Jul 7 2018, 02:00 AM
Lesson 79 finally here, whew...
Posted by: Todd Simpson Jul 7 2018, 06:16 PM
SUPER CONGRATS!!! This is one of the toughest bits yet and includes the "THUMBS AKIMBO" technique which requires you to pull your thumb entirely off the neck of the guitar and thus loose the ability to use the thumb as a fulcrum to help the finges have more power. Without the thumb, it's all down to fingertip power which is something many players simply never ever try. Sort of like the "Left Hand Only" technique, the purpose here i ISOLATION. It requires you to isolate your finger tips to make strikes.
Some folks simply can't pull this off at first. You obviously put the work in on this one. None of thee bits are easy. They are inspired by riffts done by bands like Periphery. All the skipping around, and a rejection of traditional chordal and note sequence structures.
You adapted well to all of this. Your playing has expanded quite a bit just from learning these bits. Try to write some tunes using this type approach even if it's not your normal thing to do. Stepping outside of our comfy zone is where real grownthe happens
MEDALS OF HONOR
*CLEAN AS GLASS: You shred your way trough some very complex riff on this one. There are a few bits where it sounds like you hand might be getting tired from going at it like a Mad Mad, so that gets a bass as I give points fo BERZERKER RAGE.
*QUIET AS DEATH: Your palm muting just keeps getting better. You are able to mute and lift with great efficiency which provides a great sense of dynamics to you playing.
*MEMORY MAN: How many drills/riffs can I stuff in to one Mission? Now you know! You didn't back away, you dove right in and plowed through. Well done.
You are on the fast track to TRIPLE DIGITS which (as an instructor) has been a dream of mine to see a student break, ever since I made the first Mission. No pressure!!!!!
In other words you just ....
LEVELED UP!!!!!
Posted by: yoncopin Aug 12 2018, 07:24 PM
After a too long wait, here's lesson 80! I spent most of my timing working on section B, it's was the slowest for me and I could tell I needed work to move up and down the neck like that, probably still do.
This lesson was also slow to record as I've been working a lot on this https://www.guitarmasterclass.net/guitar_forum/index.php?showtopic=59457&hl=. So far, the comments on it are I think about what I'd expect. I really wish I had worked on the tone for it more, I just recorded my everyday practice tone which doesn't suit the lesson as much as it could. I spent some time setting up dry recording/reamping and monitoring this morning and made another take just to fiddle with the tone. I took me all of ten minutes to have the whole thing sounding a lot more fitting. I wish I had taken the time before submitting it, but whatever I guess. Maybe I'll do another take, I always feel this way after a REC take, slightly disappointed, like I know I could do better but also needing to move on to keep things interesting.
Posted by: Todd Simpson Aug 13 2018, 07:39 PM
NICE REC TAKE!! I liked your tone in that and it seemed to fit well I usually record guitar (as you've probably heard me talk about, with no fx/gain/etc. and use a real time plugin to hear the tone and then change it later in software if I end u up not liking it. Have no audible latency is the real key for using guitar plugins imho, otherwise it's just hard! But I'm a big plugin fan, some folks really prefer a real amp which makes re amping important. Being able to record a dry version of your guitar to another track while recording the amped version to a separate track is key on that approach. So you've got a dry track to re amp and you can take as many whacks at it as you like) The take was well played and you clearly have that one in hand. Every take could use a pinch more polish, but it's a good thing to get the thrust of a lesson and move on rather than getting too bogged down imho as momentum is important. Well done on that one! You are clearly ready for the next!!
Back to MISSION 80!!! You are in the tall grass now Soldier. You've earned your way here so you are ready,willing and able to knock these out!!! You are at the stage where you have to nail multiple pieces in one Mission. Miss it on one piece, do the entire thing over. The good news is that you clearly have every technique involved well in hand. These cover a good bit of ground and you don't seem phased by it! Let's debrief.
MEDALS OF HONOR
*GRACE UNDER PRESSURE: Over time you have developed the kind of deft touch that I often seen in my favorite players. Striking and or Fretting with too much force is something most everyone has to struggle with at some point. Especially once precision/speed starts to develop. Resisting the instinctual urge to tighten up, pick from the elbow with a tense arm, bear down to hard when playing briskly, fret to hard when traversing, etc. are all things that can really destroy ones ability to make progress. You have managed to develop a very balance strike/fret pressure that works very well no matter what you are playing. You can speed up, slow down, run scales, etc. without tensing. This is a HUGE accomplishment it itself and bodes well for your playing going forward!
*TRAVERSING THE GAP: Yet another issue that everyone has to fight through is traverse. String traverse and fret traverse. Many players are fine, as long as they are on one string. Throw licks with several strings, wads of fret positions at them, and the dreaded tensing occurs. Not so here. You traverse strings and frets in a smooth and deliberate fashion. Neither rushing nor lagging, always on the beat and in time. I can hear your metronome going and you match it quite well. It's very easy to rush the beat to try to make it to a note, or lag the beat when a finger change is tricky. Playing with consistency and evenness is something that just takes wads of practice and you have clearly put in the practice.
*PINKY POWER TO THE MAX: This Mission featured quite of bit of riffage that focused on the pinky. I'm very glad to see that you didn't try to use the third finger in it's place. It's not an unpardonable sin, we all do it from time to time, but I"m glad to see you making use of pinky and sticking the landing each time as that's what I had in mind when I created these drills. Fretting, hammering, shifting, and making use of the weakest finger. That's usually when the pinky fails, during licks that stress it. Not here. You have PINKY POWER!!!!
In short, I'm thrilled to see you step up and KRUSH it yet again!.. You just..
LEVELED UP!!!!!! (one step closer to the triple digit barrier)
This lesson was also slow to record as I've been working a lot on this https://www.guitarmasterclass.net/guitar_forum/index.php?showtopic=59457&hl=. So far, the comments on it are I think about what I'd expect. I really wish I had worked on the tone for it more, I just recorded my everyday practice tone which doesn't suit the lesson as much as it could. I spent some time setting up dry recording/reamping and monitoring this morning and made another take just to fiddle with the tone. I took me all of ten minutes to have the whole thing sounding a lot more fitting. I wish I had taken the time before submitting it, but whatever I guess. Maybe I'll do another take, I always feel this way after a REC take, slightly disappointed, like I know I could do better but also needing to move on to keep things interesting.
Posted by: yoncopin Aug 14 2018, 08:32 PM
I'm going to try to start recording things that way too from now on. With a dry signal I can use my Helix Native plugin to use the same tones I play with too. I won't get into the details, but the best way with the Helix is to use it as the audio interface but my studio monitors are connected to my Scarlett 6i6. It's a bit confusing to try to explain, I just need to figure out how to connect it all to have a smooth workflow.
These longer lessons are challenging, it's a lot to stay true to in my daily practice routine and I've probably been practicing them longer than I need to because recording them takes a decent chunk of free time.
Thanks as always for your thoughtful comments, they're very encouraging and motivating. On to 81!!
Posted by: Todd Simpson Aug 16 2018, 12:24 AM
Thats a good plan! Using the plugin is a great way to go about it. Keep in mind that you can use a different input source than output source in most DAWs so you can use your helix usb direct to record multiple tracks (with and without fx) to your daw at the same time. Then you can use your sound card to monitor everything. Just use the helix plugin on input when recording and that way you get your helix tone and can still have the clean / dry / unaffected tone. Then you can change the patch later at any time
Todd
These longer lessons are challenging, it's a lot to stay true to in my daily practice routine and I've probably been practicing them longer than I need to because recording them takes a decent chunk of free time.
Thanks as always for your thoughtful comments, they're very encouraging and motivating. On to 81!!
Posted by: yoncopin Aug 30 2018, 02:08 AM
Lesson 81! I really liked the open position lick in this one, it twisted my brain just enough to learn something cool sounding and new.
Posted by: Todd Simpson Aug 30 2018, 04:38 AM
Nailed it!!!! The open string position is a lot of fun That same lick works in open A and open D. Just using the open string and the nut as a capo It does feel strange to modulate from from the fretted position to the open position but it's worth doing. Let's Debrief!!!
MEDALS OF HONOR
*TIGHT AS A DRUM: Your playing is really nice and tight. Hand synch is spot on which is key as these licks don't really have any gaps in them (per usual) so any slip up would stick out like a sore thumb. Good news is, you were spot on the entire time!
*MUTE LIKE A GOD: With all this constant string traverse, yet again, we have lots of chances for unwanted string noise. You have developed a very strong muting technique and as a result, you keep string noise at bay.
*REARRANGE THE BRAIN: As you noticed, the open string version of this lick is sorta wonky. It makes sense musically, but the hand itself seems to want to play something else the first few times through in many cases. You worked it out and it sound just like the fretted version which is the goal!!
In short you RIPPED IT UP!! Also you are our TOP GUN!! I've added the badge for HIGHEST RANKING SOLDIER to your badge!! You just...
LEVELED UP!!!
Posted by: yoncopin Sep 1 2018, 01:39 AM
Love that highest ranking soldier badge Lesson 82!
Posted by: Todd Simpson Sep 1 2018, 02:48 AM
NICE!!! This one is PACKED with speed traps and traversing to different shapes and inside picking on some, outside picking on others, scale inversions, etc. It's got enough wacky licks to drive some folks nuts. Not you!! Like a guided missile!!!!
You didn't get thrown off by the variety of licks. Sometimes the brain wants to carry over from the last lick to the next lick and when they are way different it causes the hands to get confused. But not with you!!! You nailed every single one. There is a plethora of techiques going on here. This is truly in the deep weeds. We are very close to the unbroken barrier. The "Ice Wall" of Bootcamp. So these are gonna be tricky.
The good news is that you have practiced your brains out for several years and have earned it! So I don't think anything coming up is going to shake you very much! Fortune favors the prepared mind as they say!!
Let's Debrief!
MEDALS OF HONOR
*SPICE OF LIFE: They say variety is the spice of life. It can be the bane of your existence if you are learning this Mission. You deftly handled each one with grace and verve. Nice.
*TECHNIQUE ON POINT: There are a variety of techniques going on here and it's enough to stress even seasoned players. You show uncommon valor in ripping through it and making it look easy.
*AGGRESSIVE STYLE: I like how I can feel you pushing the edge of your ability. You never push to far, never slip up, but you are always pushing the edge a bit. Well done!!! You KRUSHED it and made it look simple. You are ready for what's ahead!! You just.. LEVELED UP!!!! *Also, You remain our TOP GUN!
Sarge
Lesson 82!Posted by: yoncopin Sep 1 2018, 10:46 PM
Hey Todd, exercise 83B doesn't have a GuitarPro file and I'm having a hard time figuring out what it's supposed to sound like. Do you have that file somewhere that you can post again? Also, you use the word "stretch" for 83A, but there's no way anyone's stretching from 3->10, is this another "hit the target with the pinky" exercises? Kind of target practice?
Posted by: Todd Simpson Sep 2 2018, 01:43 AM
Sorry about that Soldier!!! I checked my files and here is what should be for Part A. Don't worry about doing this one all the way up. Just reach as far as you can without feeling pain. I'm playing this bit THUMBLESS as you can see in the video. The purpose is to show you that you can reach crazy stretch positions by pulling your thumb entirely off the neck and rotating your wrist under the neck a bit as I'm doing in the vid. It's a fun warm up
Lesson83A.gp5 ( 1.99K )
: 37
and here is part B.
Lesson83B.gp5 ( 1.62K )
: 38
I'll shoot these to FRAN and he will sort it on the site asap. I'll take a look at 84 in the mean time.
Sarge
Posted by: yoncopin Sep 2 2018, 08:43 PM
This is still somewhat overwhelming to look back on, I can't believe we've been at this for this long.
Thanks for those lesson bits, I recognized that tapping lick from previous lessons once I could hear it. Sooo, here's lesson 83.
Posted by: Todd Simpson Sep 3 2018, 09:49 PM
Putting on a Clinic!!!! Yet another one from the tall grass, deep end of the pool, scary part of the forest. This one combines a huge variety of techniques in to one mission and requires that you switch gears between shreddy/tappy/wonky at the drop of a hat. I'm actually trying to throw you off the horse at this point. These a meant to be tricky. However, if you have made it this far, you have done all of the bits required to play all of these pieces. It's just that we are stacking them all on top of each other. For some, this may present a problem. Not for you soldier. You've earned it every single step of the way and so you are more than ready for these crazy missions with a wad of drills stacked up. I don't even need to hear the metronome behind your playing anymore as you always play in time and on pace. The metronome is in your head at this point. This is the place that I'd llove for everyone to be. Where they can count time internally and stay spot on. The sense of time is something that we internalize, hopefully, at some point, so we don't actually require the metronome as much. You can actually tell if you are rushing/lagging, just as a matter of instinct. This takes time. No way around it. In a scant 2 years or so, you have made some serious gains.
I would encourage you to start pushing yourself to the very edge of your ability to see the point where your precision starts to hit a wall. We each have a "wall" at every stage of our playing that we have to push to move past. You have the technical ability to play just about anything I can throw at you at this point, and you have developed a good sense of timing. So now is a good time to push yourself to the very limit of your ability to find out where the edge actually is so that you can work on moving past it. You are approaching the point where you will be able to play these just like I play them, same precision, same speed. That said, don't let the quest for sheer precision/speed hold you up. There is always another mission waiting. Just push it as far as you comfortably can in the time you would normally spend and find the edge!
MEDALS OF HONOR
*TECHNICAL PROWESS: Your technical ability is clear. You never miss. You've earned it to be sure. You play in a precise and controlled manner with no errant string noise or false notes. Score!
*LIKE A CLOCK : You have developed a very good sense of TIME. This is crucial for any player who wants to be a great player. Without an innate sense of timing, one's playing feels sloppy and disconnected. Not yours. Double Score!
*MEMORY MAN: There are a LOT of notes going on in this mission. You never miss a single one. You memorized every lick and played it back perfectly. It's a great example for others to follow. Mega Score!! You remain out TOP DOG soldier!!! You are the HIGHEST RANKING Boot Camp Soldier EVER.
And you just...LEVELED UP!!!Sarge
Thanks for those lesson bits, I recognized that tapping lick from previous lessons once I could hear it. Sooo, here's lesson 83.
Posted by: yoncopin Sep 8 2018, 07:57 PM
Lesson 84! Ok, I tried to do push it to the edge of comfort without getting too hung up on a lesson, just like you said. The hardest part of this one for me was lick 2, the pinky/ring finger descending with my left hand. I often stumbled trying to get those fingers in sync, that was definitely my speed limiter. This time instead of recording at a tempo I knew I could do perfectly, I figured it would be good for you to hear and see me trip up a bit, that might be a good idea going forward. Listening back, I'm actually pretty pleased things sound a bit more together than they felt. I think maybe I should push a bit more on the next one.
PS - Also just noticed my #83 badge has Phil66's name on it
Posted by: Todd Simpson Sep 9 2018, 06:43 AM
I appreciate your aggressive style Soldier! It's always good to push beyond one's limits to find out where those limits are. I think you may have pushed a pinch far for the video in a couple of places though. Let's go bit by bit.
Part 1: This lick is designed to force the hand to adapt to a longer spacing. I'm trying to get you lower the wrist relative to the neck so that you can play the bit without having to actually move your hand back and forth. To do this, folks typically have to sit in classical or play standing as side sadle prevents you from getting your max reach just do to restraints is places on the hand due to the angle involed. The low E is probably the hardest. I'd say loop the low E. Adjust your guitar neck until you can get better reach and you can go thumbless if need be. If you can manage this side saddle, more power to ya. I think you could play it smoother at a bit slower rate, but at speed, having the hand in one spot and relying on the fingers is key. I'm going to re do the tablature for part A and have Fran replace it. It's not clear from the tab. I'm wanting you to just strike the open string and hammer on the rest while palm muting. This makes it sound like a strike while using the left hand hammer on to make the fretted notes. The muting requires you to really dig in on the left or it won't make much sound. I just now recorded a quick demo of a close up of the left hand so you can see what I mean. Also, here is the new tablature.
84_Warmup.gp5 ( 1.87K )
: 32
Give this one more shot and try to get your left hand to a comfy spot where it can stay centered and just rely on your fingers. Also, use the strike once hammer many (3 hammer ons in this case) to work up finger power while muted. I apologize for the tab not being clear. Also, you get a pinch off beat on this one as the metronome may be going a pinch fast, especially trying to pick each note. I think you can play at this speed once you do it as a strike/hammer on.
PART 2: Perfect
PART 3: About 22 seconds in you start to go off the rails a pinch which is understandable given that this lick is in a very tight spot on the neck and you are using a pinky (good form) so it makes it really hard. Also, perhaps a pinch quick on the speed forcing you to mis step. I'd rather see you in full control in the vids, but always push beyond the edge to find out where that is.
PART 4: You seem to be rushing a bit and getting off track with the metronome. You've got this lick well in hand but are losing synch with click track. Probably just shooting the "over the edge" version instead of the one just before that.
I appreciate your aggression on these Soldier! At your level (currently the highest rank I've ever given out) you have to really focus on precision. I don't remember ever having you go back in to the breach but I think it's worth doing. As always, keep pushing, but share the vid of the clip that is right before you go over the edge. Those are the ones that need to be spot on. Fear not! You can play all of this with no problem. Once more in to the breach!!
Sarge
PS - Also just noticed my #83 badge has Phil66's name on it
Posted by: yoncopin Sep 9 2018, 04:13 PM
Ok, I dialed it back to a tempo where I can be more precise. It was a good exercise to push the limit, but I guess it went too far beyond.
Posted by: Todd Simpson Sep 9 2018, 08:52 PM
Well fought Soldier!! Thanks for letting me see your EDGE takes! Feel free to include them as well after your critique takes! I might be able to give you some tips to help the edge become the norm! The takes in this video are quite good. You are putting in a brisk pace and keeping it all under control. Also, your warmup take is very good. You got exactly what I was hoping for. That's a great warmup to get your fingers stronger. Add it to your warm up routine. Run it up and down and loop it. It will wear your fingers out but it's a great finger drill. Being able to hammer on while muted is something not every player can do. It's what gives Nuno his signature sound. Let's Debrief!
MEDALS OF HONOR
*MUTED HAMMER ONS: This is a difficult technique but it's worth working on as it can be a great addition to your bag of tricks. It will work on any lick, any scale, also you can use it to pick some notes in a scale and just hammer on others and it will sound like your picking the entire thing due to the muting creating a percussive sound similar to a pick strike. Nice.
*TRAVERSE: There is a LOT of string and fret traverse in this one. It's designed to show any gaps in your muting or ability to traverse while keeping hand synch. The good news is your muting is solid as a rock and your traversing is tight. Score!
*AWKWARD FINGER POSITIONS: The pentatonic run can feel very odd, especially at first. It can be hard to make it through, much less play briskly. It's not so much a shred lick as it is a series of speed bumps. You tore through it like a pro!! Mega kill!!
In short you KILLED it per usual Soldier!! Some of these bits make great solo licks, some make great drills. Keep them all in your bag of tricks and let your lick library grow and grow!! You just ....
LEVELED UP!!! You remain our TOP DAWG. (The highest ranking Soldier, EVER)
Soldier, you are KNOCKING ON HEAVENS door as it were. Here is a preview of the badge nobody has ever seen because I've yet to bestow it on on any Soldier. Once you crack the triple digit barrier, you are in rare air. This is the insignia for anyone that can climb that mountain.
Posted by: yoncopin Sep 13 2018, 01:18 AM
Lesson 85!
Posted by: Todd Simpson Sep 13 2018, 01:32 AM
Soldier you are really cutting a swathe through these!!! The only thing that sticks out is that last bit with the scale inversion. It's impossible to shred that bit. It's just not designed for it. It's an articulation drill. You krushed every single but of this but fell off the metronome a bit during that last piece. I know you can play that bit in lock step with the click track. It probably feels like you are going from a jog to a crawl when you go from the previous bits to that last bit. It's one long speed bump. I know how that can feel. In solos, to get a sense of more speed, I often double, triple, even quad pick scale inversions to make them sound like they are happening faster, even though in reality I'm just repeating notes and my left hand speed remains constant. You are actually playing that last bit faster than I think I've attempted it and I gotta give you props for aggression!! But like we talked about, being that you are the tip of the spear, as our resident, Highest Ranking (Ever) Soldier, you get to set the bar. So I need that last bit a bit more in top of the click. I appreciate you pushing the edge though!!
Sarge
Posted by: yoncopin Sep 13 2018, 01:42 AM
Your reply was so fast I was still here practicing, I knocked it back a few bpm and am on the click now You're totally right about the mental part, I recorded the others so much faster and it felt weird to slow down so much.
Posted by: Todd Simpson Sep 13 2018, 01:47 AM
NAILED IT!!!!! That's what I"m talking about Gonna post this while I write it up. I knew full well you could play that last bit with precision. Mind you, not everyone can play that last bit at all, or anywhere near that speed. It's a finger twister of a bit, and it uses the weakest finger as a bonus. It's pure speed bump (or sleeping policeman in the UK). It's there to force you to slow down, even when your hands don't want to. Let's Debrief!!
MEDALS OF HONOR
*PINKY POWER: You may have noticed that this Mission leans a lot on the weakest finger. Forcing it to stick the landing and do its part out there by itself or next to it's nearest kin. These are things the pinky does not typically enjoy. Especially if the pinky has been neglected. Throwing it four frets out and asking it to stick a landing on every string can over tax it. No so here. You have clearly spent time in the woodshed bringing the weakest finger to heel. It's well earned. KILL.
*NO HELP FROM THE LEFT: You may have noticed that the use of open string drills across every single string precludes the ability to use one's left hand to assist in any muting. That's the idea behind such drills. It lets you find out if there are gaps in your right hand mute. Typically these gaps start right about where the strings are unwound (G,B,E) as many folks get used to covering the mute on those with their left. Sadly this is poor form and prevents one from doing licks that cover every string and use open strings as a bonus. The good news is that you have clearly worked on your mute so there are not gaps. MEGA KILL.
*SYNCH AND SWIM: You also may have noticed that, at speed, and given that there are no gaps betwen notes, that any bits where you lose hand synch stick out like a sore thumb and force you to start that lick over. Even if you just played 5 out of 6 strings, once slip, start over. That's the purpose of making really long traverse drills. To see if your synch will just wear out and start to fall apart. Happy to say I think you could keep it up all day and not slip. ULTRA KILL.
You have this one sorted Soldier. You just...
LEVELED UP!!! (Also you remain our TOP KICK *EVER*)
Sarge
You're totally right about the mental part, I recorded the others so much faster and it felt weird to slow down so much.Posted by: yoncopin Sep 13 2018, 09:10 PM
Lesson 86
Posted by: Todd Simpson Sep 14 2018, 02:05 AM
BINGO!!!! Also, you didn't fall for the Speed Trap/Speed Bump/Sleeping Policeman! Well done there. You may have noticed the CRAZY FAST then, BRICK WALL, approach in a few of these. It's to train your fingers to play to the piece instead of playing to their own fancy. Even in the middle of a guitar solo, you may switch to a lick that fits, but feels like hitting a brick wall. You can make it work with a transition like a bend or pinch or whammy, etc. This is practice for that kind of speed shift. Let's debrief!!
MEDALS OF HONOR
*PERFECT PACE: This is another one with tricky pacing issues. It's very easy to run right through it. You saw it coming a mile off and slowed the pace accordingly to be able to play the bit perfectly. Nice!!
*SINGLE STRING MADNESS: Your fret traverse on the single string is impressive. Never missed a note. Spiff!!!
*PINKY POWER: You continue to impress me with your Pinky Power!! Many folks would try to cheat it (even though it's not cards or a board game, we still call it cheating) with the first three fingers instead of using the pinky. Some of these bits require a very good range/reach, like last time, and require you to stick the landing . You stick it each and every time. Awesome!!
You are really doing a fine job of setting the bar. Nobody has ever been this far. So anyone that ever comes behind you will only have your videos as a reference as to what makes a passing grade. Thankfully, your doing a killer job so they have a fine example to follow. In other words, you just..
LEVELED UP!!!!
Sarge
Posted by: yoncopin Sep 15 2018, 06:28 PM
Lesson 87, that stretch to 10 was a tough one
Posted by: Todd Simpson Sep 15 2018, 09:02 PM
Well Fought Soldier!!! You are continuing to rip it up like a pro!! This one had some seriously tricky bits. That didn't throw you off at all though. I'm starting to think I could throw just about anything at ya and you'd just power through it. Let's Debrief!!
MEDALS OF HONOR
STICKING THE LANDING: That one crazy stretch, where you have less than one beat to stick the landing with your pinky and then hit the next note? If you miss it by half a beat, you get to start over. So you have to stick two landings really, the pinky and then the return note. The good news is you stuck both landings and did so without missing a beat. Nice!!!!
CLEAN AS A WHISTLE: Not one glitch, not one miss, not one note out of place. Your precision is getting really impressive. The licks in this one make it easy to miss a note. Of course, I'd hear it, and have to call you on it. But no, not one note missed. With the busy licks involving the pinky, not missing a single note is particularly impressive.
PICKING LIKE A MAD MAD: On point with the picking game. Synch is tight, strikes never dig to deep, pace is steady as a rock. Spiff!!
the only thing I'd suggest is your left hand mute seems focused on the upper three strings. This is fine most of the time. For licks that require traverse of every string, muting every string with the left is a good idea. However, you seem to be able to switch back and forth with no problem
You just..
LEVELED UP!!
Posted by: yoncopin Sep 18 2018, 01:44 AM
Lesson 88! I really liked the melodic aspect of part C, I enjoyed playing that one over and over.
Posted by: Todd Simpson Sep 18 2018, 02:57 AM
Impressive work Soldier!!! This one had just about every picking technique I could throw at ya and you handled it like a pro!!! Not so much as a note out of place! Let's Debrief!
MEDALS OF HONOR
*DEALERS CHOICE: Inside picking, outside picking, econ picking, single string work, doesn't matter what gets thrown your way, you handle with no problem at all. Your picking technique is solid as a rock, Soldier!
*PINKY POWER PREVAILS: You have developed a good habit of using your pinky where some folks would resort to the first three fingers only. This is a very habit to have and will serve you well as you fight on!
*PRECiSION/SPEED: I've said it before and I"ll say it again, speed is a byproduct of precision. I've seen your precision increase and your speed increase with it. Keep it up!!!
Yet again you've made short work of a multi part Mission with various traps and tricks intended to derail even the most seasoned player. I think you are able to see these things coming which is great. You just..
LEVELED UP!!! (You remind TOP DAWG and the HIGHEST RANKING SOLDIER EVER!)
Well fought! Keep it up!!!
Sarge
Posted by: Todd Simpson Nov 20 2018, 11:32 PM
I have gone back and re worked Lessons 89-100 to focus each on on what I actually want you to get from them. There is no fluffy, no filler. The Content is more streamlined and laser focused on the bits that matter. Give it a look when you get a chance..
https://www.guitarmasterclass.net/wiki/index.php/Lesson_Series:_%E2%80%9C0_To_60%2C_An_Introduction_to_Alternate_Picking%E2%80%9D_-_Lesson_89
Sarge
Posted by: Todd Simpson Feb 18 2019, 04:04 AM
Went back and saw this REC and WOW! Nice!! I read this original post to fast. I just re read it and went and saw the rec. Killer job indeed. There are just a WAD of techniques and soulfullness required to make that rec work. It's all of your hard work on display at once. SCORE!!
SARGE
I think the reasons these lessons are getting easier is largely due to the work we've done up to this point. I think that's pretty great actually, because it means your bootcamp is working! I've told Gab this, but I REALLY want to get good, and since coming to GMC and learning "how to practice" I've made more progress in the last few years than the decades beforehand. I wanted to share my https://www.guitarmasterclass.net/guitar_forum/index.php?showtopic=58084&hl=, just in case you didn't catch it. I've been working this lesson as my primary daily practice for the last 5 months, and finally did it. If you have any comments about it I'd love to hear them too Thanks again!Posted by: yoncopin Feb 18 2019, 08:05 PM
Thanks Todd! I have been out of sync with my practice lately. I've been jamming everyday to backing tracks and learning a new lick here and there, but nothing very structured. There has been a lot going on (all positive), so hopefully I can get back to serious practice again soon.
Posted by: Todd Simpson Feb 19 2019, 05:15 AM
You are still our TOP DAWG Soldier!! You had and incredible run. It was like nothing I'd ever seen to honest. NOBODY has EVER climbed that high that fast. You have set the Bar Soldier. Everyone else is now tasked with trying to beat it!! I would like to see that triple digit badge with the Star of Honor being proudly displayed by a GMC Bootcamp Soldier!! I think it may happen this year! Look forward to you getting back in the fight!!!
Todd
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