Decadence Dance by Extreme: Guitar Lesson

Introduction

"Decadence Dance" by Extreme is a powerhouse of a rock song that was released in 1990 as part of the band's album, "Extreme II: Pornograffitti." Fronted by Gary Cherone and featuring the virtuosic guitar work of Nuno Bettencourt, this track is a goldmine for guitarists keen on learning advanced techniques and understanding nuanced approaches to songwriting. The song combines elements of funk, metal, and rock, setting a lively stage for any guitarist to delve into. Sam Bell breaks down this iconic opening track in this exclusive Lick Library tutorial.

The Chordal Foundation

Let's talk about the chord progressions that form the bedrock of this song. The main riff primarily uses power chords based on E, A, and D roots. Nuno makes use of quick stabs and syncopation to give the riff a signature bounce. The chorus, on the other hand, takes a more melodic turn, featuring an array of open and barre chords such as A, G, F#m, and D. This blend of heavy riffs and melodic choruses provides an excellent backdrop for the vocals and the standout solo.

Scales Employed

The majority of the song revolves around E Mixolydian and E Minor Pentatonic scales. Nuno doesn't just stick to these scales verbatim but often incorporates passing tones and chromaticism to spice up his runs. During the solo, there's also a moment where he ventures into harmonic minor territory, adding an exotic flavour to the melodic mix.

The Solo - A Deep Dive

Ah, the guitar solo—where Nuno really shines. The solo kicks off with a flurry of alternate-picked notes in the E Minor Pentatonic scale. Nuno transitions smoothly into a series of legato runs, demonstrating mastery over the fretboard. He takes a moment to incorporate tapped harmonics, punctuating the legato phrases and adding a shimmering texture.

The emotional peak of the solo comes with the heavy use of vibrato, double-stop bends, and unison bends. These techniques not only showcase Nuno's technical prowess but also his emotive depth. Finally, the solo concludes with a rapid sequence of trills, leading back into the song's main riff, making it one of the most memorable guitar solos of the era.

Nuno Bettencourt and His Approach

Nuno Bettencourt is a guitarist known for his melodic sensibilities, technical brilliance, and genre-bending capabilities. In "Decadence Dance," you get to see the essence of his playing style. His choice of scales, the blend of rhythm and lead, and his masterful use of various techniques come together to create an intricate musical tapestry that is both educational and entertaining for aspiring guitarists.

List of Techniques Employed:

• Vibrato
• Alternate Picking
• Legato
• Tapped Harmonics
• Double-Stop Bends
• Unison Bends
• Trills
• Chord Progressions
• Power Chords
• Barre Chords

Overall, "Decadence Dance" serves as a masterclass in rock guitar, offering an endless array of techniques, scales, and creative approaches that one can learn from. Nuno Bettencourt's virtuosity and the band's knack for crafting engaging songs make this track a must-learn for any serious guitarist.