Monkey Wrench by Foo Fighters
"Monkey Wrench," a high-energy anthem by the Foo Fighters, exemplifies the raw power and infectious melodies that define the band's sound. Released in 1997 as the lead single from their album The Colour and the Shape, this track showcases Dave Grohl's iconic songwriting and dynamic guitar work. The song's relentless pace, driving rhythms, and melodic intricacies make it an exciting and rewarding piece for guitar players to master.
This guitar lesson offers a note-for-note breakdown of "Monkey Wrench," focusing on key techniques that will elevate your playing. Whether you're tackling the fast-paced rhythm guitar or the expressive leads, these techniques will not only help you master this track but also improve your overall skill set. Danny Gill breaks down this classic track in this exclusive Lick Library video tutorial.
Guitar Techniques Explored in "Monkey Wrench"
Power Chords
Power chords form the backbone of "Monkey Wrench," driving its powerful rhythm sections. These versatile chords are essential for rock and punk music, allowing players to create a full, aggressive sound. Learning power chords will improve your fretting hand strength and help you navigate chord changes with ease.
Palm Muting
Palm muting is prominently featured in the verse sections, giving the rhythm guitar a tight and punchy quality. This technique involves lightly resting the palm of your picking hand on the strings near the bridge. Mastering palm muting enhances control and dynamics in your playing, allowing you to create contrast and add texture to your sound.
Slides
The song's transitions and melodic runs incorporate slides, which add fluidity and expression to the guitar lines. By sliding between notes, you can create seamless connections and emulate the vocal-like phrasing of the original recording. Practicing slides improves finger dexterity and precision.
String Bending
The guitar solo in "Monkey Wrench" employs expressive string bending to emphasise key notes. String bending is a fundamental technique that allows players to add emotion and character to their leads. It also strengthens your fingers and refines your pitch control.
Learn more about string bending
Hammer-Ons and Pull-Offs
The solo also features hammer-ons and pull-offs, adding speed and fluidity to the phrases. These techniques are essential for creating smooth, legato passages and are widely used in rock and metal solos. Practicing them improves finger independence and articulation.
Syncopated Rhythms
The rhythm sections of "Monkey Wrench" use syncopated patterns to create a driving, off-beat groove. Syncopation challenges your timing and coordination, making it a valuable skill for any guitarist aiming to master complex rhythms.
Learn more about syncopated rhythms
About the Guitar Players
Dave Grohl, the Foo Fighters' frontman and a former drummer for Nirvana, is the driving creative force behind "Monkey Wrench." His rhythmic sensibilities, honed from years behind the drum kit, shine in his guitar work, characterised by powerful strumming and precise timing. Pat Smear, the band's rhythm guitarist during this era, complements Grohl's dynamic style, adding depth and energy to the track.
Grohl and Smear’s influence extends beyond "Monkey Wrench," shaping the sound of modern rock with their blend of raw energy and melodic sensibility. Learning their techniques provides insight into the artistry of one of rock’s most enduring bands.
Why Learn These Techniques?
By mastering the techniques in "Monkey Wrench," you’ll not only recreate one of rock's most iconic tracks but also build a versatile skill set that will serve you in countless other songs. These techniques enhance your rhythm and lead guitar abilities, allowing you to play with greater precision, expression, and confidence.
List of Guitar Techniques Used in "Monkey Wrench"
Dive into this lesson to unlock the power and precision of Foo Fighters’ "Monkey Wrench," and take your guitar playing to new heights!
About The Tutor
Tutor Profile
Danny Gill
Danny Gill is, without a doubt, the most loved tutor by our community. With an incredible array of DVDs and web lessons for LickLibrary covering a wide variety of topics all of which he covers with incredible detail, it's no wonder he carries as much respect as he does. As...