Train Of Consequences – Megadeth

Megadeth’s Train Of Consequences is a masterclass in riff-driven thrash metal, combining raw aggression with sophisticated technique. At LickLibrary, we break down this iconic track note for note, teaching you how to play every riff, lead, and solo just like Megadeth’s guitar duo intended. This comprehensive guitar lesson not only teaches the song itself, but also helps you develop a wide range of essential rock and metal techniques that can elevate your playing to a professional level. Andy James breaks down this classic track in this exclusive Lick Library video tutorial.

About the Song and Its Guitar Work

Released as the lead single from Megadeth’s 1994 album Youthanasia, Train Of Consequences showcases the band’s shift into a more streamlined and melodic thrash metal sound. Despite its more accessible structure, the song is rich with intricate guitar work, combining tight rhythm playing with expressive lead lines. The guitar tone is sharp and articulate, delivering clarity in even the most aggressive parts of the song.

From relentless down-picked riffs to cleverly constructed solos, this lesson offers a deep dive into the stylistic and technical elements that define Megadeth's signature sound.

The Guitarists Behind the Track

The track features Dave Mustaine, Megadeth’s founder, vocalist, and rhythm guitarist, alongside Marty Friedman, whose expressive, exotic lead style added a new layer of complexity to the band’s music during his time with them. Mustaine’s rhythm chops are legendary, rooted in tight, articulate riffing with a precision that's hard to match. Friedman, on the other hand, brought a neoclassical flair to Megadeth’s leads, using techniques that pulled from Eastern scales and non-traditional phrasing. Their combined approach on Train Of Consequences exemplifies the best of both rhythm and lead guitar mastery.

Key Techniques Covered in the Lesson

Palm Muting

Palm muting is central to the driving rhythm of the song. Mustaine’s aggressive riffing is tight and percussive, creating a powerful groove through precise palm-muted alternate picking. Mastering this technique improves right-hand control and is a cornerstone of thrash and metal rhythm playing.

Alternate Picking

The song is built around fast, syncopated riffs that demand accurate alternate picking. Developing this technique will increase your speed and efficiency when crossing strings or executing fast passages. It’s essential for achieving the mechanical precision that defines Megadeth’s rhythm work.

Power Chords

A staple of heavy music, power chords are used extensively in Train Of Consequences. Learning to control these with clarity at high speed sharpens your rhythm playing and tightens your muting skills.

String Bending and Vibrato

Marty Friedman's solo work in the song showcases expressive string bending and vibrato. These techniques add personality and emotion to lead lines. Perfecting these will give your solos a more vocal-like, expressive quality.

Hammer-ons and Pull-offs

Lead sections of the track incorporate fluid hammer-ons and pull-offs, creating smooth, legato runs. These allow you to play faster with less effort and are essential for fluid soloing.

Slides

Slides help transition between phrases seamlessly and are used to connect melodic ideas in a natural, flowing way. This technique enhances your ability to navigate the fretboard with confidence and grace.

Unison Bends

Unison bends add tension and aggression to the solos. These bends are a hallmark of expressive rock and metal guitar, and they give your leads a searing vocal quality that cuts through the mix.

Pinched Harmonics

Pinched harmonics are used to add bite and texture to lead phrases. They give solos that aggressive "squeal" which is instantly recognisable in hard rock and metal genres.

Why This Lesson is Invaluable for Guitarists

This lesson isn't just about playing a Megadeth song—it’s about mastering a vocabulary of techniques that will serve you across a wide range of musical situations. Whether you're a metalhead looking to perfect your rhythm chops or a soloist eager to expand your expressive range, Train Of Consequences provides a rich learning experience. Our expert tutor breaks down every section of the song with precision, helping you build muscle memory, technical fluency, and stylistic authenticity.

You’ll come away from this lesson not just able to play the track, but with improved skills that can be applied to your own music or any number of rock and metal classics.

Guitar Techniques Featured in This Lesson

• Palm Muting
• Alternate Picking
• Power Chords
• String Bending
• Vibrato
• Hammer-ons
• Pull-offs
• Slides
• Unison Bends
• Pinched Harmonics

This lesson is a must for anyone looking to take their metal playing to the next level. Explore the nuances of Train Of Consequences and build a solid foundation of techniques that can transform your guitar playing.