Learn to Play Easy Acoustic Rock Volume 1

From the most iconic alternative rock tracks to the modern classics, our newly curated "Learn to Play Easy Acoustic Rock Volume 1" features eight anthems that have undoubtedly left an indelible mark on the music scene. This course is taught by Jamie Humphries and is designed to help you accurately emulate the sounds and techniques of some of the greatest guitarists in the realm of rock. The tunes included in this volume are Yellow (Coldplay), High and Dry (Radiohead), Karma Police (Radiohead), One (U2), Babylon (David Gray), Losing My Religion (R.E.M), Wild Wood (Paul Weller), and Sing (Travis).

Yellow by Coldplay

This beautiful track from Coldplay, played primarily in standard tuning, opens up with a simplistic yet enchanting guitar riff. The lead guitarist, Jonny Buckland's minimalist approach lets the melody shine through, while his clever use of syncopated rhythms brings depth to the song. The predominant scale used in Yellow is G Major, and the song incorporates power chords and barre chords, which form the backbone of its signature sound. The solo is melodic, staying true to the theme of the song while emphasizing Buckland's melodic sensibilities.

High and Dry by Radiohead

Jonny Greenwood, the lead guitarist of Radiohead, adds a distinct touch to 'High and Dry'. The song is based on the A Major scale, utilizing the common I-IV-V progression. His guitar work with arpeggiated chord progressions brings out the nuanced emotionality of the song. Greenwood's solo in this song is a testament to his thoughtful approach to melody, utilizing alternate picking to add a rich dynamic quality.

Karma Police by Radiohead

In 'Karma Police', Greenwood's innovative guitar work shines through once more. He builds the harmonic structure of the song using both standard and barre chords. This track is based on A minor scale and incorporates chromaticism for a sense of harmonic complexity. The solo showcases Greenwood's prowess with arpeggios and legato playing, creating a hauntingly beautiful melody.

One by U2

The Edge, U2's lead guitarist, is renowned for his minimalist style. In 'One', he crafts a soundscape using the D Major scale that resonates with the song's emotive lyricism. Edge's judicious use of delay, sustain, and arpeggios lends an atmospheric depth to the song. His solo is a perfect blend of slides and sustain, underscoring his innovative approach to melodic construction.

Babylon by David Gray

David Gray's 'Babylon' is centered on the D Major scale and uses a mix of standard and power chords. Gray's delicate finger-picking and clever use of syncopated rhythms bring a folk-rock feel to the song. His solo in Babylon is a straightforward melody that perfectly encapsulates the song's lyrical theme.

Losing my Religion by R.E.M

Peter Buck, R.E.M's guitarist, provides the iconic mandolin riff for 'Losing my Religion'. The song uses an open D tuning, and the modal melody is based on the D minor scale. The interplay of arpeggiated chord progressions and octave melodies is key to this song. The solo is a tasteful blend of melodic phrasing and rhythmic dynamism, exemplifying Buck's versatile playing style.

Wild Wood by Paul Weller

'Wild Wood' sees Paul Weller employ a capo on the 2nd fret, with the song based around the D minor scale. His strong strumming technique, combined with finger-picking and Travis picking, creates an exciting mix of rhythm and melody. The solo includes bluesy bends and double stops, illustrating Weller's multi-genre fluency.

Sing by Travis

'Sing', by the band Travis, features the guitar work of lead guitarist Andy Dunlop. The song is played in standard tuning and uses the G Major scale. Dunlop uses a capo on the 7th fret to create high-pitched melodic lines. His melodic solo features string bending and slides, bringing out a playful mood that complements the song's lyrics.

Guitar Techniques Used

This course covers a vast array of guitar techniques. Here are the links to each technique:

1. Syncopated rhythms
2. Power chords
3. Barre chords
4. Arpeggiated chord progressions
5. Alternate picking
6. Legato
7. Chromaticism
8. Slides
9. Sustain
10. Finger-picking
11. Bluesy bends
12. Double stops
13. Travis picking
14. Capo

We hope this course provides you with both the insight and the practical skills to recreate these timeless rock anthems. Happy strumming!