Learn to Play AC/DC Volume 2: Master the Guitar Techniques of a Rock Icon

Join veteran Lick Library tutor Danny Gill and delve into the electrifying world of AC/DC's razor-sharp guitar riffs, powerhouse solos, and killer rock n' roll grooves with "Learn to Play AC/DC Volume 2". This comprehensive guide presents detailed, note-for-note lessons for five iconic tracks: "Sin City", "Shoot to Thrill", "Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap", "Thunderstruck", and "The Jack". Master the gritty, raw sound of lead guitarist Angus Young, and step into the shoes of a rock legend.

"Sin City"

"Sin City" is a guitar-driven powerhouse that revolves around a gritty, syncopated main riff, powered by the unison rhythm of both Young brothers. It's an excellent introduction to Young's penchant for mixing minor pentatonic and blues scales, creating an aggressively bluesy sonic character. The solo showcases Young's impressive string bending abilities, with a particular focus on whole-step bends for maximum expressiveness.

"Shoot to Thrill"

"Shoot to Thrill" boasts a potent mix of open-string riffs and minor pentatonic scale runs. Pay special attention to the dynamic contrast between verse and chorus - the former has a tight, palm-muted groove, while the latter explodes with raw power chords. The guitar solo is a stellar example of Young's impressive alternate picking skills, moving seamlessly between strings while maintaining a rapid, consistent rhythm.

"Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap"

The groovy, menacing vibe of "Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap" offers insight into Young's mastery of arpeggiated chord progressions. His use of power chords adds heaviness to the main riff, while the guitar solo sees him seamlessly transition between legato phrasing and staccato, bluesy bends. The result is a richly textured soundscape that radiates raw, primal energy.

"Thunderstruck"

"Thunderstruck" is a tour-de-force of Young's string mastery. The intro's one-handed tapping technique, often mistaken for pick-work, creates an ethereal, pulsating effect. The song moves between open-string riffs and power chord progressions, leading up to a solo that displays Young's impressive use of alternate picking, two-handed tapping, and seamless pull-offs.

"The Jack"

"The Jack" serves as a masterclass in blues-infused rock. Its slow, swaggering rhythm allows for an exploration of expressive, sustained vibrato and fluid legato phrasing. The guitar solo relies heavily on the minor pentatonic scale, punctuated by Young's trademark bluesy bends and pull-offs.

Angus Young: Powerhouse Lead Guitarist

Angus Young, with his schoolboy-uniform stage attire and high-energy performance style, has left an indelible mark on rock 'n' roll. His aggressive, riff-driven approach to guitar, coupled with an impeccable sense of rhythm and melody, has made him a cornerstone of AC/DC's signature sound.

Young's contribution to these songs lies in his ability to weave complex musical ideas into accessible rock anthems. His mastery of blues and pentatonic scales, string bending, and vibrato infuses his solos with a raw, emotional depth. This, coupled with his dynamic use of rhythm techniques like palm muting and syncopated rhythms, creates a potent sonic mix that is immediately recognizable as AC/DC's heart and soul.

Guitar Techniques in "Learn to Play AC/DC Volume 2"

In the pursuit of mastering these songs, a multitude of guitar techniques are explored. Some of the key ones include:

• Vibrato
• Alternate Picking
• Legato
• String Bending
• Pull-Offs
• Power Chords
• Palm Muting
• Arpeggiated Chord Progressions
• Open-String Riffs

Embrace these techniques, and step onto the stage as an embodiment of rock 'n' roll's rebellious spirit, ready to conquer the world one power chord at a time.