Eyes of a Stranger - Queensrÿche

Learn to Play "Eyes of a Stranger" Note for Note

"Eyes of a Stranger" is one of Queensrÿche's most iconic tracks, closing out their legendary 1988 concept album Operation: Mindcrime. This song is a showcase of intricate guitar work, featuring melodic solos, harmonised riffs, and expressive phrasing that exemplify the band's sophisticated approach to metal guitar. In this Licklibrary lesson, you'll learn how to play the song note-for-note, focusing on the techniques used by the band's guitarists, Michael Wilton and Chris DeGarmo.

By mastering this song, you'll not only expand your technique but also gain insight into the progressive metal style that influenced countless guitarists. Richard Shaw breaks down this classic track in this exclusive Lick Library video tutorial.

Guitarists Behind the Song: Michael Wilton & Chris DeGarmo

Michael Wilton and Chris DeGarmo were the creative force behind Queensrÿche's guitar-driven sound. Their ability to blend technical prowess with emotive phrasing set them apart from their peers in the metal scene. DeGarmo’s melodic sensibility and Wilton’s aggressive edge created a perfect balance, evident in the harmonised guitar sections and soaring solos of Eyes of a Stranger. Their influence can be heard in modern progressive and power metal bands, proving that their legacy remains strong in the guitar world.

Guitar Techniques Covered in This Lesson

Alternate Picking

This song features rapid-picked runs that demand precision and control. Practicing alternate picking helps improve speed, accuracy, and endurance in lead playing.

Vibrato

Wilton and DeGarmo use controlled vibrato to add expression to their lead lines. Developing your vibrato technique enhances sustain and gives your playing more emotional depth.

Legato

Smooth hammer-ons and pull-offs are a key part of the song’s fluid passages. Mastering legato technique helps with phrasing and makes playing fast runs more effortless.

Palm Muting

The song’s chugging rhythm sections utilise palm muting to create a tight, percussive attack. Learning this technique is crucial for achieving a professional-sounding metal tone.

Power Chords

Throughout the song, the rhythm guitar relies on powerful, sustained power chords. Strengthening your grip on power chords improves your overall rock and metal rhythm playing.

Unison Bends

Expressive unison bends add intensity to the song’s climactic lead sections. Mastering this technique enhances your ability to create dynamic, vocal-like melodies.

Double-Stop Bends

Blending two notes in a single bend creates a fuller, more dramatic lead tone. This technique is essential for adding richness and complexity to solos.

Trills

Fast, repeated hammer-ons and pull-offs add an aggressive, fluid sound to the song’s lead breaks. Practicing trills helps develop finger strength and dexterity.

Two-Handed Tapping

The solo section features lightning-fast tapping runs. Learning this technique improves hand coordination and adds a flashy element to your lead playing.

Whammy Bar Tricks

Expressive dive bombs and subtle pitch shifts add a unique flair to the solos. Understanding how to use the whammy bar effectively enhances your ability to create dramatic effects.

Guitar Techniques Used in This Lesson

• Alternate Picking
• Vibrato
• Legato
• Palm Muting
• Power Chords
• Unison Bends
• Double-Stop Bends
• Trills
• Two-Handed Tapping
• Whammy Bar Tricks

Master "Eyes of a Stranger" Today!

This Licklibrary lesson is the perfect way to hone your technique while learning one of the most celebrated metal tracks of all time. Whether you're a fan of Queensrÿche or looking to expand your lead guitar skills, this lesson provides everything you need to play "Eyes of a Stranger" with confidence and accuracy. Grab your guitar, and let's get started!