"For Whom the Bell Tolls" by Metallica: Guitar Lesson

"For Whom the Bell Tolls" is undeniably one of Metallica's cornerstone tracks, appearing on their sophomore album 'Ride the Lightning'. This song showcases Metallica's ability to mix aggression with melody, making it a favourite for guitarists to dissect and learn. Sam Bell breaks down this classic album track in this exclusive Lick Library video lesson.

Guitar Chords and Scales:

The core of this song revolves around some essential chord progressions and power chords. Many of the riffs employ the power chords, which provide the song with its heavy and aggressive feel. The song doesn't feature intricate chord progressions but rather uses simple chord voicings, relying heavily on the E, D, and A power chords.

The scales that dominate are mainly the E minor pentatonic and the E natural minor. These scales serve as the foundation for most of the song's riffs and solos.

Guitar Solo Analysis:

The solo in "For Whom the Bell Tolls" is a testament to the genius of the lead guitarist, Kirk Hammett. While the solo isn't the most complex in Metallica's discography, it serves the song perfectly. Kirk uses the E minor scale to great effect, weaving between its notes to create a solo that's both melodic and biting.

There's an excellent use of bends, especially half and full bends, giving the solo its expressive quality. Kirk also employs vibrato to sustain certain notes, adding more emotion to the solo.

Kirk Hammett and His Playing:

Kirk Hammett, with his bluesy roots and love for hard rock and heavy metal, has always brought a distinctive sound to Metallica's tracks. "For Whom the Bell Tolls" is no exception. His playing in this song is a blend of aggression and melody. While his solo is relatively short compared to some other Metallica songs, it captures the essence of the track. He manages to convey the song's theme and emotions without resorting to unnecessary complexity.

Techniques Used:

For those looking to replicate or study the playing style of "For Whom the Bell Tolls", here's a list of some essential techniques used in the song:

• Vibrato
• Alternate picking
• Legato
• Power Chords
• Palm muting
• Slides
• String Bending
• Octave Melodies
• Open-string riffs
• Chord progressions

Conclusion:

"For Whom the Bell Tolls" is a testament to Metallica's genius and their ability to craft songs that are both aggressive and melodic. From the iconic intro to the captivating riffs and the expressive solo, the track offers a lot for guitarists to study and enjoy. Whether you're a budding guitarist or an experienced player, delving into the intricacies of this song will undoubtedly enhance your appreciation for Metallica's craftsmanship and Kirk Hammett's expressive playing. Dive into the song, explore the techniques, and immerse yourself in one of heavy metal's iconic tracks.