"Drain You" by Nirvana: Guitar Lesson

Introduction

"Drain You" by Nirvana is a quintessential grunge anthem from their groundbreaking 1991 album "Nevermind." What makes the song so iconic is the raw energy combined with a blend of clean and distorted tones. Kurt Cobain, the lead guitarist and frontman of the band, exhibits a unique approach to songwriting and guitar playing, which has made this song a must-learn for guitarists looking to get into the grunge genre. Learn the song note for note with Lick Library tutor, Sam Bell.

Chord Progression and Structure

The song primarily employs a simple chord progression, using mostly power chords. The verses are characterised by a clean tone, whereas the chorus and the bridge unleash distorted fury. The main chords used are F5, Ab5, Bb5, and Db5. What's interesting is how Cobain takes these basic power chords and injects emotion into them through dynamics and picking nuances.

Scales and Melody

The melodic components mainly derive from the F minor pentatonic scale. Cobain's knack for using simple scales to write compelling melodies is evident in the way the vocal melody intersects with the guitar parts. The pentatonic scale lends itself well to the moody atmosphere of the song.

Guitar Solo Analysis

The guitar solo in "Drain You" is not what you would expect from a traditional lead guitar solo. It's essentially a reiteration of the song's main melody, but with added grit and distortion. This solo serves the song rather than showcasing technical ability, which is aligned with Cobain's general philosophy on music. The solo is short, yet it packs an emotional punch, further driving home the song's themes of disillusionment and emotional drainage.

Kurt Cobain's Playing Style

Kurt Cobain was never about being the flashiest guitarist. His playing on "Drain You" perfectly encapsulates what he was all about: emotion, raw energy, and the ability to make simple things sound enormous. His utilisation of dynamics, from clean verses to distorted choruses, is a masterclass in how to use simplicity to your advantage. In the noisy bridge section of the song, Cobain even employs a bit of dissonant "anti-soloing," breaking away from traditional scales to create an unsettling soundscape.

Technique Overview

In terms of techniques, "Drain You" features a number of elements that make it a diverse study for any aspiring guitarist. Here's a list for quick reference:

• Power Chords
• Palm Muting
• Chord Progressions
• Alternate Picking

While Cobain might not have been a virtuoso in the traditional sense, his playing was steeped in emotion and authenticity. This song, like many Nirvana tracks, utilises power chords in its main riff and relies heavily on dynamics and alternate picking for its sound.

Palm muting is used to add a chugging rhythm to the verses, allowing the guitar to sit back in the mix while still driving the song forward. The chord progressions, though simple, are effective and are a key part of the song's infectious appeal.

The use of alternate picking is another critical aspect, especially during the bridge where the picking intensifies. This technique adds an element of urgency and agitation, fitting seamlessly with the song's theme and tone.

Conclusion

"Drain You" is a fantastic song that showcases how simple elements, when combined effectively, can create something extraordinary. From its simple chord structures to its emotive solo and energetic dynamics, it remains an enduring masterpiece in the grunge genre and a valuable study for any guitarist interested in alternative rock. While the technical demands are not overly complex, the song teaches valuable lessons in dynamics, tone, and the art of conveying emotion through six strings.