help with metal/ heavy break down writing

[hesslich]

So i just joined a metal band (dont no the types) that plays alot of realy heavy break downs and fast "shredding" guitar parts, however i listen to/ play very little metal as it is. I was wondering what scales i should use, and to write with more of a diatonic or chromatic approach to chords. I figuered a lot of minor/ harmonic minor, but im not sure. I was Also wondering what modes and some basic progressions that are commonly used. My theory knowledge is some what limited.

thanks alot
any feed back is a appreciated

[Rumblestiltzkin]

Originally Posted by hesslich

So i just joined a metal band (dont no the types) that plays alot of realy heavy break downs and fast "shredding" guitar parts, however i listen to/ play very little metal as it is. I was wondering what scales i should use, and to write with more of a diatonic or chromatic approach to chords. I figuered a lot of minor/ harmonic minor, but im not sure. I was Also wondering what modes and some basic progressions that are commonly used. My theory knowledge is some what limited.

thanks alot
any feed back is a appreciated

Sounds like you're on the right track. What scale that you use is not so important, making the bass sound the way you think is the most heavy or bad-a@@ is important. Also, remember that minor and major are relative of one another so don't write off using a major scale pattern in a dark, minor key'd song. Common modes for metal are Major, Minor, Harmonic Minor (for a classical-esque sound), and phrygian.

Suggestion: take a few metal songs that you think you could play, then learn them by ear. Then analyse what scale(s) are being used. Think about what notes are diatonic and which are chromatic.

BTW, most metal doesn't have a formula such as some jazz and blues tunes. Use your ear and try to figure out the root note chord changes first, then add fills and licks in later based on scales and chromatics.

[trasser]

Well, I play almost every genre out there, but what I like about metal is, that chord progression wise, there are NO rules. But when you are improvising, you really have to stick with the scale. Mostly, metal will be played in minor, but ask the guitar players which scales they are using. Don't try and guess it, some of the metal players out there use really weird scales, arabian and spanish and such. So, don't be afraid to ask. Once you know which scale to use, it will definately be easier for you to approach the songs as well.