About this Backing Track:
This is our ‘Gunshot to the Head of Trepidation' Trivium metal guitar backing track so you can tighten up you metal rhythm guitar playing.
A Gunshot To The Head of Trepidation Guitar Lesson
In Andy James’s video tutorial for "A Gunshot to the Head of Trepidation" by Trivium on Lick Library, he dives deep into the song’s intense riffing and technically demanding solos, making it a go-to guide for metal guitarists aiming to master Matt Heafy’s and Corey Beaulieu’s distinctive style. James breaks down each section meticulously, focusing on the elements that make Trivium’s sound so powerful, from tight, thrash-inspired palm-muted riffs to rapid alternate picking, syncopated rhythms, and harmonised guitar lines. Starting with the iconic intro, Andy explains the tone settings, gain levels, and picking techniques needed to nail the gritty, punchy sound that defines the song. He pays close attention to timing and hand synchronisation, particularly useful for learners who want to achieve the track’s complex feel without losing precision. Each riff is slowed down, dissected, and gradually brought up to speed, allowing players to build confidence in their accuracy and timing before tackling the song at full tempo. The solos in "A Gunshot to the Head of Trepidation" are technically intense, featuring rapid hammer-ons, pull-offs, and finger-twisting arpeggios, and Andy demystifies these sections by focusing on efficient finger placement and smooth transitions. He demonstrates Trivium’s signature harmonic minor scale runs and sweeping techniques, which add a neoclassical feel to the solos and give them that sharp, shredding edge. His breakdown of these sections includes useful tips on achieving fluidity and speed without sacrificing clarity, making even the most daunting phrases feel achievable with the right practice. For rhythm players, Andy discusses the groove and feel of each section, emphasising the importance of right-hand technique in achieving a consistent, aggressive tone. He also covers the rhythm guitar’s interplay with the bass and drums, providing context that helps players understand how each part fits into the song's overall structure. This tutorial is more than just a walkthrough; it’s a detailed insight into the elements that define Trivium’s sound. With Andy James's guidance, players can not only learn to play "A Gunshot to the Head of Trepidation" note-for-note but also capture the intensity and precision that make Trivium’s style so distinct.
