Stockholm Syndrome by Muse

At Licklibrary.com, we pride ourselves on delivering note-for-note guitar lessons that dig deep into the playing styles of iconic songs. One of the most dynamic and aggressive tracks in Muse’s catalogue, Stockholm Syndrome, offers an incredible opportunity for guitarists to expand their technical ability, rhythmic accuracy, and expressive playing. Our dedicated guitar lesson breaks this song down section by section, focusing on the core techniques that define its powerful and unique sound. Michael Casswell breaks down this classic track in this exclusive Lick Library video tutorial.

About the Song and Guitarist

Stockholm Syndrome was released as part of Muse’s 2003 album Absolution, and it quickly became a fan favourite thanks to its ferocity and complex arrangement. At the heart of this track is Matt Bellamy, the band’s lead guitarist and vocalist, whose innovative playing has carved out a distinctive niche in modern rock guitar. Bellamy is known for his unorthodox use of effects, expressive articulation, and genre-blending techniques, combining classical, metal, and electronic influences. His playing on Stockholm Syndrome is no exception—it demands both technical precision and creative flair.

Lesson Focus – Breaking Down the Techniques

Alternate Picking

From the very start, Stockholm Syndrome drives forward with relentless alternate picking, especially during the fast-paced riff sections. This technique ensures speed and rhythmic accuracy, and mastering it allows guitarists to tackle faster tempos and tighter riffs with greater control and less fatigue.

Palm Muting

The song's heavy, chugging rhythm sections are anchored by tight palm muting. This adds percussive depth and helps articulate the syncopated rhythms that are a hallmark of Bellamy's style. Palm muting is crucial for developing precision and maintaining tonal clarity in high-gain settings.

String Bending

Expressive string bending features prominently in the lead sections and solo. Whether it’s full bends, pre-bends, or subtle pitch inflections, these movements add vocal-like phrasing to the melody. This technique improves finger strength and ear-hand coordination, key for expressive soloing.

Vibrato

Bellamy uses wide and controlled vibrato to emphasise notes in the solo and add emotional depth. Vibrato is one of the most important tools for making lead lines sing, and practicing it will enhance your musical phrasing significantly.

Hammer-ons and Pull-offs

Many of the legato runs in Stockholm Syndrome make use of hammer-ons and pull-offs, providing a fluid, seamless sound. These techniques build finger dexterity and allow for faster, smoother licks without excessive picking.

Slides

Sliding between notes is used throughout the track to connect phrases, create tension, and add texture. Slides are not only sonically expressive but also great for helping you navigate the fretboard more efficiently.

Power Chords

The song’s heavy riffs rely heavily on power chords, essential for building the aggressive, driving sound that defines Stockholm Syndrome. Power chords are foundational for rock guitar and help develop chordal strength and rhythm playing accuracy.

Syncopated Rhythms

Muse often incorporate syncopated rhythms to create a feeling of tension and release. Learning these rhythmic patterns improves your timing and gives your rhythm playing more groove and character.

Whammy Bar Tricks

Bellamy’s use of the whammy bar in this track adds dramatic pitch shifts and feedback effects that are signature to Muse’s live sound. Developing this skill not only boosts creativity but enhances stage presence and sound manipulation.

Arpeggios

Some sections in the song hint at arpeggiated chord progressions, especially during ambient interludes. These breakdowns allow you to work on note separation, clean tone control, and melodic phrasing.

Why Learn This Song?

Learning Stockholm Syndrome is more than just replicating a Muse classic—it's an immersive experience that enhances your overall guitar skills. Each technique covered in this lesson serves a dual purpose: to help you play the song accurately and to build a foundation you can apply across genres and styles. The aggressive energy, complex riffs, and expressive lead lines provide a holistic workout for any intermediate to advanced guitarist.

Whether you're looking to improve your technical chops, add new textures to your playing, or simply explore the high-octane style of one of modern rock's most inventive players, this lesson delivers.

Techniques Covered in This Lesson

• Alternate Picking
• Palm Muting
• String Bending
• Vibrato
• Hammer-ons
• Pull-offs
• Slides
• Power Chords
• Syncopated Rhythms
• Whammy Bar Tricks
• Arpeggios

Explore our full lesson on Stockholm Syndrome today and take your playing to the next level with Licklibrary.