Closer To An Animal by Sonata Arctica Chords & Tabs - Melwat Louiephen

Guitar Tabs Analysis and Description

Tabs Appreciation

This guitar tabs exhibits a rich tapestry of rhythmic complexity and melodic elegance, making it a standout piece for players looking to challenge their skills. One of its most distinctive features is the use of hammer-ons (e.g., represented as (B3HC4)) and pull-offs (e.g., (B3PC4)) within measures 4 and 8, which create a fluidity that is characteristic of advanced guitar techniques.

In measure 5, the incorporation of slide techniques (e.g., (B3SC4)) adds expressive depth to the melody. These smooth transitions not only enhance the lyrical quality of the piece but also provide an excellent opportunity for players to develop their legato playing style.

Additionally, the use of harmonics (e.g., (B3G3Harm)) in measure 10 brings a magical touch to the tabs. This technique, combined with the palm muting (PM) in measure 12, creates contrasting textures that require careful control of tone and dynamics.

Performance Challenges Analysis

The tabs encompasses several challenging aspects, particularly in rhythmic execution and finger dexterity. In measure 6, the alternating strumming patterns (D and U) require precise timing and a well-coordinated right-hand technique. The presence of rest notes (0) requires the player to remain rhythmically aware, ensuring smooth transitions between notes.

Measures 14-16 intensify the complexity with rapid arpeggios and trills (x) that demand quick finger movements and accurate picking technique. The challenge here is the ability to maintain melodic clarity while simultaneously executing these techniques.

Quantitative Difficulty Assessment:

• Measures 4-6: Emphasize hammer-ons and pull-offs, demanding fluid finger movement.
• Measures 10-12: Showcase harmonic techniques, requiring both left-hand agility and an understanding of fretboard harmonics.
• Measures 14-16: Complicated strumming and rapid fingerwork, which could be classified as the most difficult section due to speed and precision.

Practice Suggestions

To tackle the performance challenges presented in this tabs, follow these targeted practice strategies:

1. Isolate Difficult Sections:

   • Focus on measures 4-6: Practice hammer-ons and pull-offs at a slow tempo, gradually increasing speed. Using a metronome can help ensure consistent timing.
   • For measure 14-16, practice the arpeggios in isolation, breaking them down into smaller components. Repeatedly play each arpeggio slowly, then incrementally increase speed as comfort grows.

2. Utilize Rhythmic Patterns:

   • Implement clapping or tapping the strumming patterns in measures 6 to cement the rhythm in muscle memory before picking up the guitar.

3. Finger Flexibility and Control:

   • Invest time in exercises that enhance finger dexterity. Simple exercises focused on transitions between 2nd and 4th fingers can significantly improve agility.

4. Dynamic Control:

   • When practicing harmonics in measure 10, focus on producing a clear, resonant sound while maintaining appropriate volume control through palm muting. Try playing softer to appreciate tonal variations.

By addressing these specific areas within the tabs, users will not only refine their technique but also gain a deeper appreciation of the music. This structured approach will elevate their overall guitar proficiency, transforming the challenges presented in the tabs into stepping stones towards mastery.