One Step Closer - Linkin Park

Introduction to "One Step Closer" by Linkin Park

"One Step Closer" by Linkin Park is an iconic track that defined the early 2000s rock scene with its aggressive riffs, heavy rhythms, and emotional intensity. This song, a standout from their debut album Hybrid Theory, is a perfect example of nu-metal's signature sound, combining elements of rock, metal, and electronic music. In this guitar lesson, you'll delve deep into the techniques used by the band's guitarist, Brad Delson, who masterfully combines power, precision, and emotion to create the song's unforgettable sound.

Whether you're a beginner looking to grasp the fundamentals or an experienced guitarist aiming to refine your skills, this lesson offers something for everyone. By learning "One Step Closer," you'll not only be able to play a classic track but also enhance your guitar technique arsenal. John Connearn breaks down this nu-metal classic in this exclusive Lick Library tutorial.

Guitar Techniques in "One Step Closer"

Power Chords

The foundation of "One Step Closer" lies in its powerful and straightforward use of power chords. Power chords are a staple in rock and metal music due to their punchy and robust sound, which provides the driving force behind the song’s aggressive riffing. By mastering power chords, you'll develop the ability to create a thick, full sound with minimal finger movement, making it easier to switch between chords quickly. This technique is essential for any guitarist looking to play rhythm guitar in rock music.

Palm Muting

Another key technique employed in this song is palm muting. This technique involves lightly resting the edge of your picking hand on the strings near the bridge to create a muted, percussive sound. In "One Step Closer," palm muting is used to create dynamic contrast, adding tension and emphasis to certain sections of the riff. Learning palm muting will enhance your ability to control your sound, giving you the flexibility to make your playing more expressive and varied.

Alternate Picking

Alternate picking is a fundamental technique used throughout "One Step Closer" to maintain the song’s fast tempo and rhythmic intensity. This technique involves alternating between downstrokes and upstrokes while picking, allowing for faster and more efficient playing. By practicing alternate picking, you'll improve your speed and accuracy, which are crucial for playing complex riffs and solos with precision.

Octave Melodies

The song also incorporates octave melodies, where the same note is played in two different octaves simultaneously. This technique adds depth and a melodic layer to the guitar parts, making the riffs sound fuller and more interesting. Learning to play octave melodies will enhance your ability to create rich harmonic textures and can be applied in various musical genres.

Pick Slides

One of the most distinctive sounds in "One Step Closer" is the use of pick slides. A pick slide is executed by dragging the edge of your pick along the strings, creating a gritty, scraping noise that adds an aggressive and edgy texture to your playing. Mastering pick slides will give you an additional tool for adding character and flair to your performances, especially in rock and metal contexts.

About the Guitarist: Brad Delson

Brad Delson, the lead guitarist for Linkin Park, is known for his minimalist yet impactful guitar style. Rather than focusing on complex solos or technical prowess, Delson prioritises the song's overall feel and emotional impact. His playing in "One Step Closer" exemplifies this approach, with riffs that are both simple and powerful, driving the song forward with an almost primal energy.

Delson's influence extends beyond his work with Linkin Park, as he has inspired a generation of guitarists to embrace the power of simplicity and focus on creating music that resonates emotionally with listeners. His style serves as a reminder that sometimes, less is more, and that the right note played at the right time can be more effective than a flurry of notes.

Benefits of Learning These Techniques

Learning the techniques featured in "One Step Closer" provides several benefits:

• Power Chords: Strengthen your rhythm playing and build a solid foundation for rock guitar.
• Palm Muting: Develop control over your sound dynamics, making your playing more expressive.
• Alternate Picking: Increase your picking speed and accuracy, essential for playing fast riffs.
• Octave Melodies: Expand your ability to create harmonically rich and layered guitar parts.
• Pick Slides: Add texture and flair to your playing, enhancing the overall impact of your performance.

Guitar Techniques Used in "One Step Closer"

• Power Chords
• Palm Muting
• Alternate Picking
• Octave Melodies
• Pick Slides

By mastering these techniques, you'll not only be able to play "One Step Closer" with confidence but also apply these skills to a wide range of other songs and styles. Dive into this lesson and take your guitar playing one step closer to the next level!

Guitar Techniques Used in This Lesson

• Power Chords
• Alternate Tunings
• Harmonics
• Octave Melodies

By the end of this course, you’ll not only play "One Step Closer" note for note but also gain a robust set of skills to elevate your playing style. Dive into the world of Linkin Park with LickLibrary and bring the essence of nu-metal to your guitar repertoire.