Shattered by Pantera: Guitar Lesson

Intro and Overview

"Shattered" is a track from Pantera's 1990 album, 'Cowboys From Hell,' which is a milestone in the history of metal music. As a guitarist, this is one of those songs that can not only improve your technique but also give you a deeper understanding of metal guitar composition. What makes this song extraordinary is its amalgamation of aggressive riffs, melodic scales, and intricate solos, crafted brilliantly by lead guitarist Dimebag Darrell. Sam Bell goes into great detail of what makes this track so iconic.

The Chords and Scales

The song is primarily in E minor and uses the natural minor scale to create its menacing sound. The main riff showcases a combination of power chords like E5, D5, and C5, played at a breakneck pace. The transitions between these power chords are a lesson in effective palm muting, adding to the overall aggression of the song.

In the bridge and chorus sections, you'll hear the usage of more complex chord progressions involving variations like E5 add9. It's fascinating how Dimebag Darrell mixes minor and augmented chords to build tension before launching into solos.

The Lead Guitar & Solo Analysis

Dimebag Darrell's playing in "Shattered" is nothing short of a masterclass. His ability to combine fast-paced alternate picking with melodic sensibilities provides a stark contrast to the heavy riffs. The solo starts with a screeching dive bomb that leads into a fast legato phrase, drawing from the E minor scale and flirting with the Phrygian mode. He then moves into a series of tapped harmonics and unison bends, creating a high-pitched, almost ethereal, atmosphere.

What is particularly fascinating in the solo section is how Dimebag incorporates arpeggios into his run. He effectively uses sweep picking to perform a descending E minor arpeggio before transitioning into a faster ascending pattern. This injects a sense of melody into an otherwise aggressive composition, making it unforgettable.

Dimebag Darrell's Legacy

Dimebag Darrell was known for his innovative approach to metal guitar playing. What sets him apart is his uncanny ability to combine multiple techniques seamlessly within a single song or even a solo. In "Shattered," he demonstrates how effective use of scales, combined with inventive phrasing and a clear understanding of rhythm and tempo, can elevate a song into a timeless classic.

List of Guitar Techniques Used

Here are some key techniques that you can dissect and learn from this song:

1. Vibrato
2. Alternate Picking
3. Legato
4. Tapped Harmonics
5. Double Stop Bends
6. Unison Bends
7. Arpeggios
8. Dive Bombs
9. Chord Progressions
10. Sweep Picking
11. Palm Muting
12. Power Chords

Whether you're a beginner trying to get a grip on the essentials or an advanced player looking to delve deep into the intricacies of metal guitar, "Shattered" by Pantera provides a broad spectrum of techniques and styles to learn from. And above all, it helps you understand the genius that was Dimebag Darrell, a musician whose contributions to metal guitar continue to inspire generations.