Scream Aim Fire by Bullet For My Valentine

Explore the exhilarating world of metal guitar with our Scream Aim Fire guitar lesson from Bullet For My Valentine. This track, a high-energy anthem, is packed with technical brilliance and unforgettable riffs that challenge and excite guitarists. Our detailed note-for-note lesson dives deep into the techniques used in the song, breaking down the fast-paced solos, intricate rhythm sections, and expressive embellishments. Andy James breaks down this classic track in this exclusive Lick Library video tutorial.

About Bullet For My Valentine and the Guitarists

Bullet For My Valentine is a Welsh heavy metal band known for their melodic metal-core style, combining blistering guitar work with emotive songwriting. The lead guitar work of Michael "Padge" Paget is central to the band's sound. Paget's style draws from classic metal influences like Iron Maiden and Metallica, while incorporating modern technical precision. His ability to blend melody with ferocity makes his playing a masterclass in expressive metal guitar. In this lesson, you'll gain insight into the techniques that make his work on "Scream Aim Fire" so powerful.

Techniques Explored in This Lesson

Alternate Picking

Alternate picking is fundamental to the fast, galloping rhythms in the verse and solo sections. Mastering this technique not only improves speed but also enhances precision, making it indispensable for tight, aggressive playing.

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Galloping Rhythms

The driving force behind "Scream Aim Fire" is its galloping rhythm. This technique requires controlled picking and rhythmic precision, laying the foundation for the song's relentless energy. It’s a staple in metal and a great way to build stamina and timing.

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Power Chords

Power chords dominate the rhythm guitar parts, providing the song’s thunderous foundation. Learning power chords not only builds hand strength but also trains you in constructing dynamic, heavy sounds.

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Palm Muting

Palm muting is used extensively in the riff work, creating a punchy, staccato effect that enhances the song's aggressive tone. This technique is key for tight and controlled riffing in metal.

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Two-Handed Tapping

The solos in "Scream Aim Fire" feature electrifying two-handed tapping runs. This technique combines speed and fluidity, allowing you to play fast melodic lines that are otherwise challenging.

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String Bending and Bluesy Bends

String bending is used for emotive, wailing solos, while bluesy bends add a unique melodic flair. Mastering these techniques enhances your expressiveness and vibrato control.

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Tremolo Picking

The rapid-fire tremolo picking in the solo sections adds intensity and excitement. This technique improves your ability to maintain speed and consistency across long passages.

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Dual Guitar Harmonies

One of Bullet For My Valentine’s signature elements, dual guitar harmonies, shines in this track. This technique teaches you about melody construction and teamwork in ensemble playing.

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Pinched Harmonics

Pinched harmonics add a screaming, high-pitched quality to the riffs and solos, a quintessential element of the metal sound. Learning this technique adds character and flair to your playing.

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Slides

Sliding transitions between notes create smooth, dynamic movement in the solos and riffs. This technique improves finger coordination and enhances phrasing.

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List of Techniques Covered

• Vibrato
• Alternate Picking
• Legato
• Two-Handed Tapping
• Pinched Harmonics
• Palm Muting
• Galloping Rhythms
• Power Chords
• String Bending
• Bluesy Bends
• Slides
• Tremolo Picking
• Dual Guitar Harmonies

By learning these techniques in the context of "Scream Aim Fire," you’ll elevate your playing to new heights, gaining skills that are both practical and stylistically authentic to the metal genre.