Many of Horror - Biffy Clyro

Learn to play "Many of Horror" by Biffy Clyro with our detailed, note-for-note guitar lesson that delves into the techniques and stylistic nuances of this iconic rock ballad. Released as part of Biffy Clyro's acclaimed album Only Revolutions, "Many of Horror" showcases powerful melodies, intricate guitar work, and emotive playing that combine to create a deeply resonant listening experience. Our lesson covers each of these elements in depth, enabling guitarists to capture the unique essence of the song. Whether you're looking to refine your technique, improve your musical expression, or simply play along to one of Biffy Clyro's best-loved songs, this lesson offers valuable insights for guitarists at every level. Danny Gill breaks down this classic track in this exclusive Lick Library video tutorial.

About Biffy Clyro and Guitarist Simon Neil

Biffy Clyro, led by vocalist and guitarist Simon Neil, is known for their compelling fusion of alternative rock, punk, and post-hardcore elements. Neil’s distinctive guitar style often combines raw emotion with technical skill, creating a sound that is both powerful and intricate. His approach to the guitar has influenced a generation of rock players, and in "Many of Horror," his expressive playing shines through in every chord and melody. Neil's guitar work on this track balances delicate arpeggios with gritty power chords and dynamic shifts, making it an ideal piece for guitarists looking to explore advanced rock techniques and expressive playing.

Techniques Used in “Many of Horror”

1. Arpeggiated Chord Progressions

In "Many of Horror," arpeggiated chord progressions form the foundation of the song's intro and verses. These arpeggios allow guitarists to break down chords into individual notes, creating a shimmering, cascading effect. This technique is ideal for enhancing finger dexterity and accuracy, as each note requires clean articulation. By mastering arpeggiated chords, players can add a sophisticated layer of musicality to their own compositions and performances.

2. Slides

Slides are used throughout the song, adding smooth transitions between notes and phrases. This technique is key for achieving the fluid, seamless sound that characterises the track. Practicing slides helps guitarists improve their ability to move efficiently across the fretboard and adds a polished, professional sound to their playing. It’s a versatile technique that enhances both lead and rhythm sections, enabling smoother transitions in a variety of musical contexts.

3. Power Chords

Power chords are a staple of rock music, and "Many of Horror" uses them to build intensity, particularly in the chorus. These chords, which consist of just the root and fifth notes, create a strong, focused sound that amplifies the song’s emotional weight. Learning power chords is essential for any guitarist aiming to play rock music, as they allow for a bold, punchy sound without requiring complex finger positioning. They are particularly useful in creating energy and drive in heavier sections of a song.

4. Barre Chords

Barre chords are prominently featured, providing a fuller, more resonant sound that supports the song’s harmonic depth. This technique involves pressing down multiple strings with a single finger, making it challenging yet rewarding to master. Barre chords expand a guitarist’s chord vocabulary and enable more complex voicings, making it easier to play in any key. For players aiming to achieve versatility and fluency in their chord changes, barre chords are an essential skill.

5. Hammer-Ons and Pull-Offs

Neil’s guitar work also incorporates hammer-ons and pull-offs to create a smooth, flowing sound between notes. These techniques are used to add speed and fluidity, enabling more dynamic, expressive playing. Mastering hammer-ons and pull-offs is crucial for players who want to increase their legato skills and achieve a seamless, lyrical sound in both fast and slow passages.

6. Vibrato

Vibrato is employed to add expressiveness to held notes, infusing each note with a sense of tension and release. In "Many of Horror," vibrato enhances the emotional resonance of certain phrases, giving the song its haunting quality. Practicing vibrato helps guitarists develop their tonal control and adds depth to their playing. It’s a valuable technique for expressing emotion and adding a personal touch to each note.

7. Alternate Picking

Alternate picking is essential for executing the song's rhythm and lead lines with precision. This technique, which involves alternating downstrokes and upstrokes, improves speed, accuracy, and endurance. By mastering alternate picking, guitarists can tackle fast passages with greater ease and build a solid foundation for more advanced picking techniques.

Benefits of Learning These Techniques

Learning the techniques featured in "Many of Horror" offers guitarists a wealth of benefits, from increased finger strength and dexterity to improved musical expression. Mastering arpeggios, for example, enhances a player’s ability to break down complex chords, while alternate picking and power chords build strength and accuracy in rhythm playing. Techniques like vibrato and slides allow guitarists to add their own emotional interpretation to the music, making each performance unique. By exploring these skills, players not only gain technical proficiency but also develop a deeper connection to the music they play.

Guitar Techniques List

• Arpeggiated Chord Progressions
• Slides
• Power Chords
• Barre Chords
• Hammer-Ons
• Pull-Offs
• Vibrato
• Alternate Picking

This lesson not only teaches you to play "Many of Horror" note-for-note but also guides you in developing the skills needed to tackle a variety of rock songs with confidence and precision. Dive into the techniques, connect with the music, and discover new layers of expression in your guitar playing with Licklibrary.