Over The Mountain - Ozzy Osbourne

Overview of "Over The Mountain" by Ozzy Osbourne

"Over The Mountain" is a hard-hitting track from Ozzy Osbourne's 1981 album Diary of a Madman. Featuring the legendary guitarist Randy Rhoads, this song has become a staple in rock and metal history due to its blistering solos, intricate riffs, and unparalleled technicality. At LickLibrary, we provide a detailed, note-for-note guitar lesson to help you master this iconic song.

This lesson breaks down the song's intricate techniques, offering a comprehensive guide to replicate its signature sound. Whether you're an intermediate or advanced guitarist, learning the techniques within this track will elevate your playing and give you a deeper understanding of Randy Rhoads’ unique style. Danny Gill breaks down this classic track in this exclusive Lick Library video tutorial.

About Randy Rhoads and His Influence

Randy Rhoads was a virtuoso who combined classical influences with the raw power of metal. His innovative approach to guitar playing introduced techniques that redefined the boundaries of the genre. Known for his precision, emotion, and creativity, Rhoads’ work on "Over The Mountain" exemplifies his mastery of tone, phrasing, and technical skill. Aspiring guitarists can benefit immensely from studying his methods, gaining insight into both his technical expertise and his emotional delivery.

Techniques Covered in the Lesson

Alternate Picking

Alternate picking is essential in "Over The Mountain," especially for executing the fast-paced riffs and solos. This technique enhances speed and accuracy while maintaining rhythmic consistency. Learning alternate picking improves your efficiency and control across the fretboard, enabling you to tackle even the most complex passages.

Legato

Randy Rhoads often employed legato techniques to create smooth, flowing runs. These include hammer-ons, pull-offs, and trills, which feature prominently in the solos. Mastering legato will refine your transitions between notes, making your playing sound fluid and dynamic.

Pinched Harmonics

The aggressive tone in certain sections of the song is achieved using pinched harmonics. These add a sharp, squealing effect to notes, giving your sound more character and intensity. Incorporating pinched harmonics into your playing will allow you to express yourself with a wider tonal palette.

Two-Handed Tapping

Rhoads’ classical influence shines through in the intricate two-handed tapping sequences found in this song. This technique enables rapid note execution and expands the melodic possibilities on the fretboard. Practicing tapping improves your finger independence and creativity in soloing.

String Bending and Bluesy Bends

Expressive bends play a key role in the emotional depth of the solos. Randy’s use of string bending and bluesy bends adds tension and resolution to the melody. By mastering these techniques, you can add more expression to your solos and mimic the human voice's emotive qualities.

Power Chords and Palm Muting

The rhythm section of "Over The Mountain" relies on power chords and palm muting to drive the song's heavy, chugging feel. These techniques provide structure and impact, forming the backbone of many rock and metal songs. Learning them enhances your rhythm-playing skills and tightens your tone.

Dual Guitar Harmonies

Rhoads’ interplay of harmonised guitar lines is a standout feature in this track. These dual harmonies create a rich, layered effect, demonstrating his classical influences. Understanding harmonisation will improve your knowledge of theory and expand your creative options in composition.

Benefits of Learning These Techniques

Studying the techniques in "Over The Mountain" provides several advantages:

• Enhanced Speed and Precision: Techniques like alternate picking and legato sharpen your technical abilities.
• Improved Expression: String bending and pinched harmonics add emotional depth to your playing.
• Broader Tonal Range: Tapping and harmonisation introduce new textures and complexity to your solos.
• Stronger Rhythm Skills: Palm muting and power chords improve your timing and rhythm consistency.
• Creative Growth: Rhoads' unique phrasing inspires creativity and pushes you to explore different musical styles.

Guitar Techniques Used in "Over The Mountain"

• Alternate Picking
• Legato
• Pinched Harmonics
• Two-Handed Tapping
• String Bending
• Bluesy Bends
• Power Chords
• Palm Muting
• Dual Guitar Harmonies

Mastering "Over The Mountain" will not only help you replicate an iconic track but also transform your technique and elevate your overall guitar-playing ability. Dive into this detailed lesson and experience the magic of Randy Rhoads’ timeless craftsmanship!