Decadence Dance: An Ode to Guitar Mastery

As a guitarist, encountering Extreme's "Decadence Dance" is akin to discovering a treasure trove of techniques and musical prowess. Released as part of their 1990 album "Pornograffitti," this song is a tour de force in guitar-driven rock, showcasing the band's virtuosity and the lead guitarist Nuno Bettencourt's exceptional talent. George Marios walks you through every note of this classic rock track in this Lick Library exclusive video tutorial.

Overview and Structure

"Decadence Dance" is a sonic rollercoaster, starting with a punchy, syncopated riff that immediately grabs the listener's attention. The song follows a typical verse-chorus-verse structure but takes unexpected twists and turns, keeping the audience engaged throughout its duration. Its catchy melodies, dynamic shifts, and explosive energy make it a favourite among guitar enthusiasts.

Chords and Scales

The song primarily revolves around power chords, giving it a heavy, driving feel. The main riff, played during the verses, utilises a combination of power chords and palm-muted single notes to create a rhythmic groove that underpins the entire track. The key of the song is E minor, with occasional chromaticism adding tension and excitement to the composition.

Guitar Solo Analysis

Nuno Bettencourt's guitar solo in "Decadence Dance" is a masterclass in melodic phrasing and technical proficiency. Spanning several octaves and incorporating various techniques, the solo showcases Bettencourt's versatility and creativity as a guitarist.

The solo begins with a blistering series of alternate picked arpeggios, showcasing Bettencourt's incredible speed and precision. He then seamlessly transitions into a melodic section, incorporating bends, vibrato, and legato to add emotion and depth to his playing.

As the solo progresses, Bettencourt explores different areas of the fretboard, incorporating tasteful use of tapping, harmonics, and whammy bar tricks to create dynamic and engaging passages. The solo reaches its climax with a series of lightning-fast runs and sweeping arpeggios, demonstrating Bettencourt's technical prowess and musicality.

Throughout the solo, Bettencourt maintains a perfect balance between technical proficiency and musical expression, delivering a performance that is both impressive and emotionally resonant.

Lead Guitarist: Nuno Bettencourt

Nuno Bettencourt's contribution to "Decadence Dance" is nothing short of exceptional. His innovative playing style, characterised by a seamless blend of technique and melody, elevates the song to new heights. Bettencourt's ability to seamlessly integrate a wide range of techniques, from blistering speed to soulful bends, demonstrates his versatility as a guitarist.

Born in Portugal and raised in the United States, Bettencourt began playing guitar at a young age and quickly gained recognition for his extraordinary talent. His unique approach to the instrument, influenced by a diverse range of musical genres, has earned him a reputation as one of the most innovative guitarists of his generation.

In "Decadence Dance," Bettencourt's guitar work serves as the driving force behind the song's infectious energy and undeniable appeal. His fearless exploration of the fretboard, combined with his impeccable sense of timing and phrasing, makes for a truly unforgettable listening experience.

Techniques Used

• Vibrato
• Alternate Picking
• Legato
• Tapped Harmonics
• Double Stop Bends
• Unison Bends
• Pinched Harmonics
• Trills
• Tremolo Picking

"Decadence Dance" is not just a song; it's a testament to the power and versatility of the guitar. From its infectious riffs to its blistering solos, the song exemplifies everything that makes rock music great. And at the heart of it all is Nuno Bettencourt, whose fearless creativity and unparalleled skill continue to inspire guitarists around the world.