Moonchild by Iron Maiden

Introduction

Iron Maiden’s “Moonchild”, the opening track of their 1988 album Seventh Son of a Seventh Son, is a powerful composition that showcases the band's signature guitar techniques, intricate harmonies, and high-energy rhythm work. Our note-for-note guitar lesson on LickLibrary breaks down this classic song, focusing on the core techniques that define its sound. Whether you're an aspiring guitarist looking to master Iron Maiden’s style or a seasoned player aiming to refine your skills, this lesson will provide valuable insights into the playing of Dave Murray and Adrian Smith. Andy James breaks down this classic track in this exclusive Lick Library video tutorial.

The Guitar Work of Dave Murray and Adrian Smith

Iron Maiden’s guitarists, Dave Murray and Adrian Smith, have long been celebrated for their dynamic dual-guitar harmonies and fluid lead work. Moonchild exemplifies their synergy, blending fast-paced alternate picking, intricate arpeggios, galloping rhythms, and expressive bends. Murray’s smooth legato runs contrast with Smith’s precise, articulate phrasing, creating a balanced and energetic sound. Their influence extends across the heavy metal genre, inspiring generations of guitarists with their melodic leads and innovative techniques.

Guitar Techniques in "Moonchild"

Galloping Rhythms

One of Iron Maiden’s most recognisable trademarks, the galloping rhythm, appears prominently in Moonchild. This fast-paced picking pattern involves a mix of downstrokes and upstrokes, creating a driving, energetic feel. Mastering galloping rhythms improves right-hand coordination and picking speed, essential for metal rhythm playing.

Dual Guitar Harmonies

Murray and Smith’s signature dual guitar harmonies give Moonchild its epic sound. These harmonised melodies are typically played in thirds or sixths, requiring precise intonation and timing. Learning these harmonies enhances fretboard awareness and the ability to play in sync with another guitarist.

Alternate Picking

The song features rapid alternate picking during its riffs and solos, demanding consistent motion and control. Practicing alternate picking builds picking-hand endurance and helps execute fast passages with clarity.

Legato Runs

Dave Murray frequently uses legato in his solos, executing smooth hammer-ons and pull-offs to create fluid, flowing phrases. Legato playing reduces picking effort and increases speed while improving finger strength and dexterity.

Tremolo Picking

The intro and verse sections feature tremolo picking, where a single note is rapidly picked to sustain intensity. This technique is great for developing wrist speed and control.

Arpeggios

Several sections of Moonchild use arpeggiated chord progressions, providing a melodic yet haunting quality. Arpeggio practice strengthens left-hand precision and helps guitarists transition smoothly between chord shapes.

Power Chords

The song’s heavy rhythm sections rely on power chords, a staple of metal guitar. Power chords are simple yet effective, and learning to transition between them smoothly is key to mastering rhythm guitar.

String Bending & Vibrato

Smith and Murray use string bending and vibrato to add expression to their solos. Proper control of these techniques enhances note articulation and musicality.

Whammy Bar Tricks

A few sections incorporate subtle whammy bar movements to create eerie, dramatic effects. This technique adds depth and sustain, useful for crafting a distinctive lead tone.

Why Learn These Techniques?

Studying Moonchild’s guitar parts provides valuable insight into advanced metal techniques, including:

• Improved Picking Speed & Accuracy – through alternate picking and tremolo picking.
• Enhanced Fretboard Knowledge – by working through harmonised leads and arpeggios.
• Greater Expressiveness – via string bends, vibrato, and whammy bar articulation.
• Better Coordination & Timing – thanks to galloping rhythms and dual-guitar harmonies.

Guitar Techniques Covered

• Vibrato
• Alternate Picking
• Legato
• Power Chords
• Arpeggios
• Galloping Rhythms
• Dual Guitar Harmonies
• Tremolo Picking
• String Bending
• Whammy Bar Tricks

By mastering the techniques found in Moonchild, you’ll gain deeper insight into Iron Maiden’s playing style while sharpening your overall guitar skills. Dive into our note-for-note lesson on LickLibrary and take your playing to the next level!