"Action! Not Words" by Def Leppard: Guitar Lesson

Introduction

When we discuss the epitome of '80s hard rock and glam metal, one band that undoubtedly makes the cut is Def Leppard. Their 1983 album "Pyromania" was a groundbreaker, and among its arsenal of hits is the lesser-known yet musically intriguing "Action! Not Words." This song offers an interesting palette of guitar techniques, chord progressions, and an iconic guitar solo that showcases the virtuosity of Def Leppard's lead guitarists, Steve Clark and Phil Collen. Lick Library tutor, Sam Bell, takes a deep dive into this classic track.

Chord Progressions & Scales

The song is mostly rooted in the key of E minor, occasionally stepping into E major, which lends it a versatile emotional landscape. The chord progressions are mostly power chords, involving E5, A5, B5, and C5. These are classic chord shapes that form the backbone of many rock songs, giving a robust underpinning for the flashy lead guitar work. The progression moves swiftly and is primarily built around I-IV-V patterns but with a rock-and-roll twist.

Lead Guitar Work

Both Steve Clark and Phil Collen's unique styles are beautifully showcased in this track. Steve Clark's emotive string bends and vibratos add depth and feeling to the fast-paced nature of the song. Phil Collen, on the other hand, brings a sense of flashiness with his fast alternate picking and legato techniques. The duo's harmonic interplay is a textbook example of how two guitarists can both contrast and complement each other.

Guitar Solo Analysis

The solo in "Action! Not Words" is a journey in itself. It kicks off with a soaring high E, moving into a series of fast alternate-picked notes in the E minor pentatonic scale. Quickly it shifts gears into an emotional string-bending passage that oozes with feeling, thanks to Clark's tasteful vibrato. Just when you think it's going to slow down, Collen steps in with a speedy, tapped harmonic sequence that takes the energy back up. They make generous use of the mixolydian and dorian modes to add flavour and intricacy.

The usage of double-stop bends and unison bends adds a bluesy touch to an otherwise hard-rocking solo. As it winds down, there is a touch of pinched harmonics that add that 'scream' to the guitar tone before settling back into the chorus. The solo is not just a display of technical prowess but a narrative that takes the listener on an emotional rollercoaster.

Lead Guitarists

Steve Clark was known for his blues-based approach to hard rock, emphasising feel over flash. His smooth bends and vibratos are a crucial aspect of Def Leppard's sound. Phil Collen, in contrast, brings in a shred element, taking inspiration from players like Eddie Van Halen. His fast picking and acrobatic techniques provide a yin to Clark's yang, making them one of the most revered guitar duos in rock history.

Techniques Used in This Song

• Vibrato
• Alternate Picking
• Legato
• Tapped Harmonics
• Double-Stop Bends
• Unison Bends
• Pinched Harmonics
• Chord Progressions

"Action! Not Words" is a stellar example of how multiple techniques can coalesce into a singular, memorable experience. It showcases the harmony between two virtuoso guitarists while packing a ton of techniques that would provide a great learning ground for any aspiring rock guitarist. The brilliance of Steve Clark and Phil Collen shines through every bend, every picked note, and every harmonic, making this song a hidden gem in the realm of rock guitar.