"Warriors" from 'Live and Dangerous' by Thin Lizzy: Guitar Lesson

Introduction

The song "Warriors" by Thin Lizzy, from the critically acclaimed album 'Live and Dangerous,' is a pure exemplification of rock guitar at its finest. The twin guitar attacks of Scott Gorham and Brian Robertson bring out the soul of the song, enhancing Phil Lynott's haunting vocals. Danny Gill delves into this underrated Thin Lizzy gem.

Chords and Scales

The song is primarily rooted in A minor, blending effortlessly with harmonic minor and pentatonic scales. Chords like A5, G5, and F5 are played, which give the song its driving force. These power chords create a sense of rugged, defiant masculinity that encapsulates the very essence of rock. The chord progression provides a solid platform for the lead guitars to play off of, often launching into solos and arpeggios that add another layer of complexity.

Lead Guitarists and Their Playing

Scott Gorham and Brian Robertson, the duo who churn out those mesmerising guitar lines, show off their chops in this song. Gorham’s style is fluid and melodic, emphasising feel and space. Robertson, on the other hand, tends to be more aggressive and technically demanding, opting for speedy runs and complex phrases.

In "Warriors," their styles contrast and complement in a beautiful dance. Gorham usually plays the straight, sustaining notes, often employing vibrato for emotional effect, while Robertson handles the faster, more complex phrases, laden with hammer-ons, pull-offs, and slides. Together they perform one of rock's most tantalising dual-guitar acts.

Guitar Solo Analysis

The solo in "Warriors" is an amalgamation of different techniques and scales that work cohesively to convey the song's overall message. Starting off with a slow bend, Robertson utilises the A harmonic minor scale to infuse a slightly exotic, mysterious vibe. Shortly after, Gorham joins in with pentatonic licks that lend a bluesy feel, humanising the otherwise intricate soundscape. Their trading solos and harmonising runs are awe-inspiring. The use of unison bends at the end of the solo brings it to an emotionally charged climax.

Techniques

At the heart of "Warriors" are a plethora of guitar techniques that any aspiring guitarist would do well to learn. I would like to list some of them below:

• Vibrato
• Alternate Picking
• Legato
• Harmonics
• Pull-offs
• Power Chords
• Palm Muting
• Barre Chords
• Hammer-ons
• Double Stops
• Slides
• Sustain
• String Bending
• Unison Bends

Conclusion

"Warriors" encapsulates what Thin Lizzy is all about: powerful chord progressions, intricate dual-guitar harmonies, and solos that communicate on an emotional level. This song offers a rich tapestry of techniques and scales for guitarists of all levels to delve into. From the A minor and harmonic minor scales to the brilliant use of legato and alternate picking, "Warriors" is a must-learn for anyone serious about mastering the rock guitar.