Can I Play With Madness – Iron Maiden

Introduction

“Can I Play With Madness” by Iron Maiden is a quintessential track from their 1988 album Seventh Son of a Seventh Son. Known for its high-energy riffing and soaring melodies, this song has become a staple in the band’s legendary discography. Our note-for-note guitar lesson will guide you through every part of the song, ensuring you can replicate its powerful sound while honing your guitar-playing skills.

This lesson focuses on a variety of essential techniques found in “Can I Play With Madness,” all of which are vital for any guitarist looking to master the metal genre. From galloping rhythms to intricate lead runs, each technique is explained in detail to help you understand its application and benefit. Danny Gill breaks down this classic track in this exclusive Lick Library video tutorial.

The Guitarists Behind the Song

Iron Maiden's signature twin-guitar attack, powered by Dave Murray, Adrian Smith, and occasionally Janick Gers, has influenced countless musicians worldwide. Their approach to dual harmonies, melodic solos, and dynamic riffing helped define the New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM). In "Can I Play With Madness," Murray and Smith shine with their precise and emotive playing. Their ability to combine technical mastery with memorable melody is a hallmark of their influence on the rock and metal genres.

Key Techniques in “Can I Play With Madness”

1. Galloping Rhythms

The galloping rhythm is a trademark of Iron Maiden’s sound and features prominently in this track. This technique involves rapid, consistent picking to create a driving rhythm, often used to build tension and energy. Mastering this technique improves your timing, right-hand coordination, and ability to maintain stamina during fast-paced passages.

2. Dual Guitar Harmonies

One of the standout elements of this song is the seamless interplay between the lead and rhythm guitars. The dual guitar harmonies add depth and richness to the melody, showcasing Iron Maiden's complex arrangements. Practicing harmonies enhances your ear for melody and your ability to play in sync with other musicians.

3. String Bending

Expressive bends are used throughout the solos to add emotion and dynamics. This technique involves pushing the string up or down to alter its pitch, a staple in rock and metal guitar playing. String bending helps you develop finger strength, pitch accuracy, and a greater sense of musicality.

4. Vibrato

Vibrato adds sustain and richness to held notes, a key element of Iron Maiden's lead playing style. By varying the pitch of a note subtly, vibrato creates a singing quality that elevates your solos. This technique improves your control and expressiveness as a guitarist.

5. Hammer-Ons and Pull-Offs

The fluidity of the solos in “Can I Play With Madness” is largely thanks to the use of hammer-ons and pull-offs. These techniques allow you to play faster passages with minimal picking, improving both your speed and legato playing.

6. Alternate Picking

The intricate riffs and fast runs in this song require precise alternate picking. This technique, which alternates between downstrokes and upstrokes, enhances your speed, accuracy, and overall efficiency in picking.

7. Slides

Sliding between notes creates smooth transitions and adds a dynamic flair to the solos and riffs. Practicing slides improves your fretboard navigation and your ability to connect notes seamlessly.

8. Palm Muting

The driving riffs of “Can I Play With Madness” make extensive use of palm muting. This technique, achieved by lightly resting your palm on the strings near the bridge, tightens the sound and creates a punchy, percussive tone. It’s essential for crafting the tight, rhythmic feel characteristic of metal guitar.

9. Arpeggios

The bridge section features arpeggios, where notes of a chord are played individually rather than strummed. This technique is useful for developing finger independence and understanding chord shapes across the neck.

10. Power Chords

Power chords are the foundation of many Iron Maiden riffs, including the ones in this song. Their simplicity and power make them an essential tool for rhythm guitarists. Practicing power chords strengthens your left-hand coordination and improves your understanding of chordal harmony.

Why Learn “Can I Play With Madness”?

Learning this song will not only sharpen your technique but also give you a deeper appreciation of Iron Maiden’s artistry. It covers a diverse range of skills, from rhythm playing to melodic soloing, making it an excellent practice piece for intermediate to advanced players. Each section of the song offers a unique challenge, ensuring your playing continues to evolve.

Techniques Used in This Lesson

• Galloping Rhythms
• Dual Guitar Harmonies
• String Bending
• Vibrato
• Hammer-Ons
• Pull-Offs
• Alternate Picking
• Slides
• Palm Muting
• Arpeggios
• Power Chords

Dive into our lesson on “Can I Play With Madness” today and take your guitar skills to the next level!