episodes

Episode 12 Cover
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Ep012 – Electricity Basics for Guitar and Bass

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Title:
GTRNRD Podcast Ep012: Electricity Basics for Guitar and Bass

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If you’ve ever found yourself scratching your head at all the electrical lingo tossed around in guitar gear discussions, this episode is for you! ⚡️ This time on GTRNRD, we’re zapping into the basics of electricity that every guitarist and bassist should know.

In the latest episode, we’re on a mission to demystify the fundamentals of electricity and its impact on your sound. We tackle everything from Ohm’s Law to the difference between AC and DC voltage, and I explain exactly how capacitors and resistors play their part in your gear. Understanding how voltage, current, and resistance interact can spell the difference between a killer tone and, well, a very silent amp.

I also shine some light on why matching your speaker impedance with your amp can make—or break—your gig. Plus, you’ll learn why that flimsy cable might be the reason for your tone woes. We’re talking straight about power supplies on pedalboards and the brilliance of isolated power supplies in keeping tone clean and mean.

So, whether you’re saddling up for your first gig or you’ve been around the block with your six-string, this episode will gear you with the electrical know-how to boost your sound and confidence. Listen now wherever you get your podcasts, and don’t forget to share with your guitar buddies!

See you there, NRDs!

Episode 11 Cover
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Ep011 – The Scales Junglegym

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**GTRNRD Podcast Ep011: The Scales Junglegym**

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Who knew a jungle gym and your fretboard could have so much in common? 🎸 In this episode, we’re swinging into “The Scales Junglegym,” where I draw on the physical play of jungle gyms to inspire our scale practice. Just as a jungle gym stretches our muscles and sense of adventure, scales stretch our musical muscles, building hand coordination and musical flexibility.

Why should you dive into this episode? Well, scales are music’s foundation! I break down how tackling scales with creativity (and some fun, just like playing outside) can transform your guitar playing. By shaking up your finger choices and casting aside predictable patterns, you unlock new worlds of melodic possibility. Plus, I’ve packed this episode with practical exercises to expand your technique and free your music from the mundane.

So what are you waiting for? Hit play and swing into this episode for some musical monkey bars—you don’t want to miss it!

See you there, NRDs!

Episode 10 Cover
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Ep010 – Hammer-Ons and Pull-Offs

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### GTRNRD Podcast Ep010: Hammer-Ons and Pull-Offs

Hey there, guitar wizards and low-end maestros! Ever wish your solos could sing like a bird or scream like a superstar? Well, you’re in luck. 🎸 In this week’s episode, we’re diving into the world of hammer-ons and pull-offs—those magical techniques that can transform your playing from “meh” to “marvelous.”

Join me as we dissect the mechanics of hammer-ons, where you strike a note by simply placing a finger firmly on the fretboard, and pull-offs, which let a string ring out beautifully as you lift your finger. Perfecting these moves will add fluidity and expression to your music, whether you’re serenading the moon or setting your fretboard on fire.

I’ll guide you through some practical exercises to strengthen your fingers and improve your timing. Plus, we’ll explore how to spice up those scale exercises and how to use these techniques to turn your melodies into something vocalists would envy. That’s right—hammer-ons and pull-offs are like the consonants of your musical language, enhancing your solos with variety and nuance.

To geek out even further, check out my books, “Beginner’s Guitar Jumpstart” and “Bass Guitar Beginner’s Jumpstart,” which you’ll find at SeeingMusicBooks.com. These reads are perfect for grounding your foundational skills and theory.

So, ready to experiment and share your newfound skills on social media? I can’t wait to see what you come up with. And don’t forget to tune in next time when we’ll be swinging through “The Scales Junglegym” episode—your melody-making might just reach new heights.

Listen now wherever you get your podcasts, and let’s amp up your musical expression!

See you there, NRDs!

Episode 9 Cover
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Ep009 – Fuzz, Distort and Boost – Pedal Special

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Title: GTRNRD Podcast Ep009: Fuzz, Distort and Boost – Pedal Special

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Ever wondered if your guitar’s got a secret voice waiting to be unleashed? 🎸 This episode’s your golden ticket into the world of distortion pedals! From the gritty growl of fuzz to the smooth tones of overdrive and the crystal-clear boost, we’re turning up the volume on how these bad boys can transform your sound.

In this pedal special, I unwrap the technical sorcery behind fuzz, overdrive, and boost pedals, exploring their distinct personalities. We’ll travel back in time to the 60s to see how fuzz became the darling of British pop and fast-forward to today, discovering how pedal stacking can lead you to sonic nirvana. Plus, I’ll share some insider tips on pedal order and using your volume knob to sculpt those ultimate tones.

Curious to know more? My book “Electric Guitar for Adults” is packed with insights on setting up killer pedal chains and more. Check it out at seeingmusicbooks.com.

Dust off those pedals and hit play—you don’t want to miss this one! And stay tuned for next week’s dive into hammer-ons and pull-offs. It’s gonna be epic!

See you there, NRDs!

Episode 8 Cover
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Ep008 – What are Modes?

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**GTRNRD Podcast Ep008: What are Modes?**

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Have you ever wondered how bands like The Beatles and Metallica achieve such intriguing musical vibes? 🎸 This week on the GTRNRD podcast, we’re taking a flavorful journey into the world of musical modes! Just like how spices can transform a dish, modes bring unique texture, color, emotion, and depth to your music.

Join me as we dive into the seven magical modes (Ionian, Dorian, Phrygian, Lydian, Mixolydian, Aeolian, and Locrian) and explore how they can be your new secret ingredient for melodies and solos. I even cracked out the bass guitar to demonstrate how these scales, derived from the major scale, can revolutionize your sound palette.

Feeling inspired? Experiment with these modes and start listening for modal nuances in your favorite tunes. If you’re ready to master this flavorful topic, don’t miss out on my book “Guitar Scales Infinity” at Seeing Music Books—you’ll find exercises and creative recipes to elevate your playing.

Pressed for time but still want to spice up your music? Hit play and join us for this one—you don’t want to miss it! And stay tuned, because next week we’re diving into the electrifying world of fuzz, distortion, and boost pedals!

See you there, NRDs!

Episode 7 Cover
Podcast Episodes

Ep007 – Harmonics 411

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Title: GTRNRD Podcast Ep007: Harmonics 411

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Ever listened to a tune and wondered, “What gives that note its angelic, shimmering touch?” 🌟 Well, you’re in luck because this week’s episode is all about harmonics—those magical overtones that can make your guitar or bass soar to new heights. Whether you’re a harmonic newbie or a seasoned player looking to sprinkle some brilliance into your scenes, this episode is packed with guitar geekery and practical tips that’ll have your music glowing.

Dive headfirst into Harmonics 411 as we explore the basics—where to find them on your fretboard, the ethereal sound they bring, and how legends like Eddie Van Halen and Jaco Pastorius have transformed their sounds using harmonics. Oh, and I’ve whipped up a handy harmonic cheat sheet that’s just waiting for you at GTRNRD.net. Trust me, it’s going to be your new best friend.

Feeling adventurous? We also touch on advanced techniques like artificial and pinch harmonics to give your playing that extra zing. I’ve got some advice up my sleeve for those, too, so you can swagger through the shimmering world of harmonics with confidence.

Ready to unlock a new dimension in your playing? Hit play and join us for this one—you don’t want to miss it!

See you there, NRDs!

Episode 6 Cover
Podcast Episodes

Ep006 – Tube Amp Generations

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Title: GTRNRD Podcast Ep006: Tube Amp Generations

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Ever get lost in the rich, warm embrace of a vintage tube amp and wonder how it got so legendary? 🎸 In this episode, we hop on a musical time machine to explore the fascinating evolution of tube amplifiers. We’ll journey through the Tweed Era of the late ’40s and ’50s, admire the crisp tones of the Blackface and Silverface eras, and rock out to the Marshall sounds that defined heavy rock. From boutique amps to the high-gain craziness of the ’80s, I’ve got all the amplifier insights covered for you!

We didn’t just stop at the history lesson though—I shared some cool tips for advanced players, like playing with different tube brands or using attenuators to nail that cranked sound without causing your neighbors to call the cops. We also talked about amp switching to achieve killer tones. And of course, there’s an emphasis on understanding your settings, because getting the right tone should be as satisfying as the first chord you strum with a new setup.

So, grab your favorite beverage, and listen in as we decode these tone machines! You might even want to check out your local music store afterward to twiddle some knobs and try things firsthand.

Hit play and join us on this tube amp adventure—listen now wherever you get your podcasts!

See you there, NRDs!

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Podcast Episodes

Ep005 – Practice Easy for Big Results

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**Ep005: Practice Easy for Big Results**

Hey there, fellow guitar enthusiasts! 🎸 Ever find yourself feeling guilty for not spending hours practicing every day? In this episode, I bust the myth that marathon practice sessions are the only way to improve and share how effective short, focused practice can truly be. It’s not about the hours you put in, but the quality of those minutes!

I open up about my personal practice strategies that keep motivation high and fit into any busy schedule. You’ll be surprised at how even a simple, consistent 15-minute practice can lead to big results. Throughout the episode, I highlight the impact of setting clear, small goals and using tools like metronomes and practice journals. I also introduce an advanced tip for seasoned players that involves a fun bar graph tracking system to reach those ambitious licks and solos goals.

Plus, we’ve got a free practice journal page waiting for you at GTRNRD.net to track your progress—a handy resource for crafting your personalized, effective practice routine.

Tune in as we look forward to next week’s juicy topic—the evolution of tube amps. Promise me you’ll reconsider those practice habits this week and enjoy seeing the change in your skills!

Hit play and join us for this one—you don’t want to miss it!

See you there, NRDs!

Episode Ep004 Cover
Podcast Episodes

Ep004 – Supercharged Strumming

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**GTRNRD Podcast Ep004: Supercharged Strumming**

Are you ready to turbocharge your guitar playing with some killer strumming techniques? 🎸 In this episode, we take an electrifying journey into the art of strumming—a pivotal skill that can truly elevate your guitar game. Whether you’re just starting out or you’re already rocking the guitar scene, mastering strumming is your ticket to unlocking new sounds and rhythms. We’ll tackle everything from the trusty down and up strumming patterns to ensuring your rhythms are consistent and your note volumes are even. Plus, you’ll get the inside scoop on smooth chord changes and practical tips to polish these moves to perfection.

Bass players, listen up! I’ve got some special strumming secrets for you, too. We’re talking about experimenting with two-note strumming way up the neck for some bold, new textures. And for all you advanced players out there, we’re diving into the dynamics, fret hand mutes, and varied strumming targets that transform good music into great music.

Curious to see these strumming skills in action? Hit play and join the conversation—your guitar is going to thank you for it! 🌟 Share your strumming adventures with us on social media, and if you’re looking to really dig in, check out my book, “Acoustic Guitar for Adults – Book 1”.

Listen now wherever you get your podcasts, and stay tuned for next week when we’ll explore tips on practicing efficiently. Keep experimenting, and you’ll be amazed at how your music comes alive!

See you there, NRDs!

Episode Ep003 Cover
Podcast Episodes

Ep003 – FAQ: Pickups

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Ep003: FAQ – Pickups

Ever wonder how those magical pickups in your guitar really work their wonders? 🎸 In this episode, I’m diving into the electrifying world of guitar and bass pickups—the unsung heroes behind our favorite riffs and solos. We explore the fascinating trio of electromagnetic, piezo, and microphone pickups, covering their unique characteristics and how they can shape your tone like a sculptor with a rockstar twist.

We’ll break down what makes single coils sparkle and humbuckers hum, plus I’ll give you the lowdown on the classic axes they call home—think Fender Strat and Gibson Les Paul. We also chat about piezo pickups, beloved by acoustic players for their crystal-clear vibes, and delve into the depth you can capture with microphones on an acoustic setup. Oh, and don’t forget the creative wiring tricks like coil-splitting and playing around with active versus passive options—because versatility is key, right?

Whether you’re a tone chaser or just love geeking out over gear, there’s something in here for all you NRDs. So hit play and join us on this sonic adventure—you don’t want to miss it!

See you there, NRDs!

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