"Something in the Way" by Nirvana: Guitar Lesson

"Something in the Way," a haunting, melancholic ballad from Nirvana's seminal album "Nevermind," captures the band's ability to articulate raw emotion through simple yet profound musical ideas. Let's dig deep into the guitar aspects that contribute to the song's impact, from the chords and scales to the approach of lead guitarist Kurt Cobain. Sam Bell breaks the song down chord for chord, note for note.

Chords Used

The song mainly revolves around a dark, descending chord sequence that leverages the somber tonal quality of the F# Minor scale. The chords used are simple and mostly consist of:

• F#m: F# A C#
• Emaj7: E G# B D#
• D: D F# A

It's worth noting that the 7th added to the Emaj chord imbues a sense of yearning that complements the lyrical theme.

Guitar Scales

Primarily based on the F# Minor scale, the song encapsulates a raw, melancholic vibe. The choice of the F# Minor scale is particularly effective for reinforcing the song's mood. The scale notes are: F#, G#, A, B, C#, D, and E.

Guitar Solo Analysis

While there isn't a traditional "solo" in the song, Kurt Cobain's guitar work provides an underlying tension that acts as a counterpoint to the vocals. It's worth noting that instead of flashy techniques, Cobain opts for simple, almost minimalist, layers that are awash in chorus and reverb effects. The effectiveness lies not in technical complexity but in emotive resonance.

Lead Guitarist: Kurt Cobain

Kurt Cobain's approach to guitar was that of a sonic painter rather than a virtuoso. He prioritized emotional resonance over technical mastery. In "Something in the Way," the textural aspects of his guitar playing are crucial. His use of a clean electric tone with effects like chorus and reverb demonstrates a keen understanding of atmosphere and mood. Rather than filling every sonic space, Cobain lets the notes breathe, giving them room to reverberate emotionally as well as musically.

Techniques Used in "Something in the Way"

In keeping with the minimalist nature of the song, Cobain employed a select few techniques, focusing on raw emotion rather than technical dazzle. Here's a list:

1. Chord Progressions: The descending chord sequence forms the backbone of the song.
2. Arpeggios: Picking out individual notes in a chord, as opposed to strumming, contributes to the song's haunting feel.
3. Palm Muting: Used subtly to control resonance and dynamics.
4. Barre Chords: Simplifies the fretting hand movements, making transitions between chords more fluid.
5. Sustain: Effective use of sustain to let the notes ring out and fill the musical space.
6. Altered Tunings: Though not overly prominent, Cobain occasionally played this song in drop D tuning during live performances to add extra low-end depth.

Now, let's associate these techniques with more detailed definitions for your learning convenience:

1. Chord Progressions
2. Arpeggios
3. Palm Muting
4. Barre Chords
5. Sustain
6. Altered Tunings

In summary, "Something in the Way" serves as a lesson that technical complexity isn't a prerequisite for evocative, memorable music. Sometimes, it's the simple yet thoughtful application of basic chords, scales, and techniques that allows a song to penetrate deeply into the listener's soul. Cobain's guitar work in this song is a masterclass in minimalist expression, proving that less can often be more.