"Stay Away" by Nirvana: Guitar Lesson

Ah, Nirvana's "Stay Away," the angsty, gritty piece from their game-changing album, Nevermind. This song is a masterclass in the use of dynamics, simplicity, and raw emotion, all courtesy of lead guitarist Kurt Cobain. So, what makes this song a great lesson for guitarists? Sam Bell dives in.

Chord Progressions

The song operates on a fairly straightforward punk-infused chord progression. Most notably, the progression relies heavily on power chords. A standard E5 - F5 - A5 - B5 progression kicks off the song, acting as both the intro and the backbone for verses. This progression provides a rhythmic thrust and a grungy texture that propels the song forward.

Scales

Now, when we look at the scales used in this song, it’s mostly pentatonic in nature. The pentatonic scale is often the go-to for grunge and rock styles because of its stripped-down tonal palette. It brings a rawness that complements the lyrical content of frustration and societal angst. The verses and the choruses employ the F Minor Pentatonic scale, which drives home the song’s aggressive tone.

Solo Analysis

The guitar solo in "Stay Away" is not flashy, staying true to Cobain's style. While many guitarists indulge in fast scales or intricate picking, Cobain often chose to echo the song's vocal melody or central riff in his solos. The solo leans on the same F Minor Pentatonic scale but introduces some double stops to add harmonic interest. It's more of a textural element than a standalone showpiece, designed to maintain the song's intensity without stealing the spotlight.

Kurt Cobain’s Playing

Kurt Cobain, the lead guitarist and frontman, was no virtuoso, and that's not a dig. His genius lay in his ability to capture complex emotions with minimalistic musical tools. With "Stay Away," Cobain chose simple power chords and pentatonic scales as his canvas, splashing it with raw emotional hues. His playing here is a prime example of how less can be more, emphasizing feel over technical complexity. This minimalism speaks volumes, especially to a generation that found solace in the unfiltered expression of grunge music.

Techniques List

• Power Chords: The building blocks of the song, offering a grungy and rhythmically robust framework.
• Palm Muting: Used sporadically to control the dynamics and add percussive elements.
• Double Stops: Employed in the solo to add a layer of harmonic complexity without going overboard.
• Sustain: Noticeable throughout the song, allowing chords and notes to ring and fill the sonic space.
• String Bending: A few subtle bends can be heard, particularly in the solo, adding emotion to the melodic lines.
• Chord Progressions: The song’s E5 - F5 - A5 - B5 progression provides an anchor for both rhythm and melody.
• Arpeggios: Though not as prominent, Cobain occasionally arpeggiates chords, particularly during the pre-chorus to build tension.

Overall, "Stay Away" serves as a textbook example of Cobain's minimalist genius, using basic musical elements to deliver an emotionally potent sonic experience. His ability to turn simple chord progressions and scales into a powerful emotional statement is a lesson in musical economy that every guitarist can learn from. So, whether you’re a seasoned pro or a budding guitarist, Nirvana’s "Stay Away" offers an invaluable lesson in the power of simplicity and emotional resonance.