"On a Plain" by Nirvana: Guitar Lesson
If you're an aspiring guitarist who also happens to love grunge, there's no bypassing the influence of Kurt Cobain and Nirvana. One of their classics that often gets overlooked in favour of the monster hits like "Smells Like Teen Spirit" and "Come as You Are" is "On a Plain" from their seminal album, Nevermind. Sam Bell takes you through the entire song.
The Chords and Scales
The song operates primarily in the key of D major, with variations and nuances that provide that distinct 'grunge' flavor. A key point of interest is the use of power chords, which are stripped down to the root and the fifth, allowing for a raw, unfiltered sound that packs a punch. The verses predominantly feature D5, C5, and F5 power chords, and the chorus revolves around the G5, F5, C5, and D5 chords. Power chords are quintessential in rock and especially in grunge; they offer a broader canvas for Cobain to paint his gritty soundscape on.
When it comes to scales, we're predominantly working with the D Major scale, although the lack of third intervals in the power chords leaves room for interpretation. This is one of the great things about grunge; you're never too restricted by the traditional "rules" of music theory.
Solo Analysis
Now, let's dig into the guitar solo. Cobain was never one to show off flashy, intricate licks; his solos are often an emotional catharsis, an extension of the song's inherent emotion. In "On a Plain," the solo focuses on the repetition of a few key phrases, creating an almost hypnotic effect that mirrors the song's lyrical themes. Cobain was more interested in raw emotion than technical prowess, and that really shows in this solo.
Using a pentatonic scale rooted in D, the solo is a great example of how you can convey a lot without intricate fingerwork or speed. Cobain uses slides and bends to inflect his phrases, but it's the timbre and the tone that really make this solo stand out. With heavy distortion and a sort of 'controlled sloppiness', he was able to say more with less. The solo's seeming simplicity belies the complexity of its emotional impact.
Kurt Cobain: The Lead Guitarist
Kurt Cobain's playing in this song reflects his approach to guitar in general—emotional, raw, and far removed from the virtuosic solos of his 80s predecessors. Cobain was not a shredder, nor did he aspire to be. His choice of gear, often pieced together from what some might consider "low-end" equipment, added to the tonal quality that became signature to Nirvana’s sound. Cobain favoured a distorted sound that contributed to the band's grunge texture. But don't mistake this raw aesthetic as a lack of skill; Cobain had an innate understanding of musical dynamics and song construction.
List of Techniques Used
Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned player, "On a Plain" offers a great study into the nuance of grunge guitar playing. Cobain's unique blend of raw power chords, carefully chosen scales, and emotionally charged solos make this song a must-learn for any aspiring guitarist interested in grunge or alternative rock. The song is simple enough to be accessible but complex enough to offer a rich ground for exploration and interpretation. So grab your guitar, crank up that distortion, and dive into the depth of emotion that is "On a Plain."
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