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 Visitors’ FAQs: Grunj Chords

  • FAQ: I have a great distortion unit, but everytime I play chords it’s sounds horrible...what can I do?

     
  • A: This problem is often related to the notes within the chord itself. A chord dripping with 3rds, 7ths, and chord extensions like 9ths will often sound less than musical when you apply distortion to it; the complexity of the harmonic overtones generated being a prime suspect. The easiest way to avoid this is to restrict your chord to tonic, 5ths and octaves: the power chord, as it’s sometimes called. An example of a power chord built on G, let’s call it G5, would be:

    string 6, fret 3    (tonic)
    string 5, fret 5    (5th)
    string 4, fret 5    (octave)

    If you tune string 6 to D, it’s even more fun:
    string 6, fret 5    (tonic)
    string 5, fret 5    (5th)
    string 4, fret 5    (octave)
    (Use one finger to do the lot!)

    These chord shapes are, of course, moveable.

    I once solved the grunj chord problem a different way. Using a Roland GR100 synth (the original?!) it seemed possible to distort each string individually, so even a complex chord like A7(b6)(b9) would sound tough, yet unusually sweet......
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Disclaimer: All content is the author’s interpretation of standard music theory, & should be confirmed & validated by your music trainer, tutor or appropriate professional.

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