"Inside" by Van Halen: Guitar Lesson

Guitar Chords and Scales

"Inside," one of Van Halen's more underrated gems, features a unique blend of power chords and barre chords to deliver a textural quality that is both vibrant and aggressive. The song primarily revolves around E, A, and D chords, with variants like Esus4 and A7 thrown into the mix. The guitars are often down-tuned a half-step, which is typical in Van Halen's discography.

In terms of scales, Eddie Van Halen employs a blend of the Minor Pentatonic scale and the Mixolydian mode. You can hear snippets of the E Minor Pentatonic during some of the riffing, while the Mixolydian flavour becomes evident in the lead lines, especially during the solo.

Guitar Solo Analysis

Now, let's dive into the pièce de résistance—the guitar solo. Eddie’s unparalleled skills shine through in this multi-bar extravaganza. The solo starts with a fast alternate picking sequence transitioning into a series of legato licks. The extensive use of hammer-ons and pull-offs lends the sequence fluidity that only Eddie could produce.

Then come the tapped harmonics—a technique that Eddie mastered like no other. Here, he lets a few notes ring, tapping at specific nodal points to produce the harmonics, which sound ethereal and add a momentary suspension of reality to the song.

This is quickly followed by a series of double-stop bends and unison bends, creating a sense of tension and urgency. And let's not forget the occasional pinched harmonics that add an extra flair to this complex tapestry of sound.

Eddie Van Halen’s Signature Style

Eddie Van Halen was known for pushing the boundaries of guitar-playing, and "Inside" is a testament to that innovative spirit. His command over the guitar can make even the simplest chords and scales sound extraordinary. The level of intricacy, mixed with the playful energy that is a hallmark of Van Halen's style, makes this song a valuable study piece for any aspiring guitarist.

Eddie’s talent was not limited to virtuosic lead guitar work; his rhythm playing is equally compelling. The chunky palm-muted riffs and the barre chord voicings add dimension to the song, grounding it even as the solos and lead lines reach for the sky.

Techniques Used in the Song

As you dig into "Inside," you’ll realise it’s a great tutorial in advanced guitar techniques. Here's a comprehensive list:

1. Vibrato
2. Alternate Picking
3. Legato
4. Tapped Harmonics
5. Double-Stop Bends
6. Unison Bends
7. Pinched Harmonics
8. Power Chords
9. Palm Muting
10. Barre Chords
11. Hammer-Ons
12. Pull-Offs

So there you have it—a deep dive into Van Halen's "Inside" from a guitarist's perspective. The song encapsulates the essence of Eddie’s playing style and showcases a plethora of techniques that can elevate your own playing. From its intricate chord progressions to the multifaceted solo and Eddie's characteristic flair, "Inside" is a masterclass in guitar craftsmanship. Whether you're an aspiring shredder or a seasoned pro, delving into the layers of this song will not only expand your technical repertoire but also deepen your appreciation for the genius of Eddie Van Halen. Let's go over every note with Lick Library tutor, Sam Bell.