episodes

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Podcast Episodes

Ep015 – Every Knob of Your Amp Explained

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Title: GTRNRD Podcast Ep015: Every Knob of Your Amp Explained

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Hey there, tone chasers! Ever felt overwhelmed by the sea of knobs on your amp? Trust me, you’re not alone! In today’s episode, we’re turning the mysterious world of amp controls into your ultimate playground. 🎛️ I’m diving headfirst into the inner workings of guitar amplifiers, helping you see them as vital tone-shapers, not just glorified volume knobs.

We’ll start by breaking down every section of your amp, from the preamp to the mighty power amp. You’ll learn how to make the most of the tone stack’s bass, mid, and treble knobs, and discover the master volume’s secret power to control output without losing a drop of tone quality. And yes, we’ll even sprinkle in a bit of reverb and modulation magic!

After listening, you’ll be armed with practical tweaks and insights to maximize your amp’s potential. Whether you’re new to the game or a seasoned pro, you’ll find something to amp up your sound (pun intended) and be inspired by how the pros set up their rigs.

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

See you there, NRDs!

Episode Ep014 Cover
Podcast Episodes

Ep014 – Fitting Your Part into a Full Band

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Title: GTRNRD Podcast Ep014: Fitting Your Part into a Full Band

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Ever felt like you’re at a musical dinner party without a seat at the table? 🎶 In this episode of GTRNRD, I dive into the art of fitting your musical part seamlessly into a band setting. We’ll explore how to harmonically and rhythmically arrange your role to ensure the band sounds as cohesive and professional as possible. Think of it like a musical conversation where timing is everything—not just a cacophony of noise!

We’ll talk about the spotlight moment (color) versus the supportive role (function) and how to strategically side-step the dreaded musical “mud.” I’ll be sharing some nuggets from my books, “Guitar Theory Nuts and Bolts” and “Bass Guitar Theory Nuts and Bolts.” These offer practical tips to help you avoid stepping on your band’s toes—unless you’re dancing, of course!

Plus, we’ll delve into why bass players are the unsung heroes when used effectively and how even simple parts can make your band shine. Get ready to steal some moves from tight bands for inspiration, because even pros borrow good ideas to elevate their game.

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

See you there, NRDs!

Episode Ep013 Cover
Podcast Episodes

Ep013 – Better Rhythms and New Time Signatures

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Title: GTRNRD Podcast Ep013: Better Rhythms and New Time Signatures

Ever feel like your playing is missing that extra oomph? 🎵 In this episode, we’re taking a rhythmic deep dive into the heartbeat of music itself—rhythm! We’ll explore the ins and outs of time signatures and beat subdivisions, showing you how mastering these elements can transform your playing from pretty good to absolutely brilliant. Whether you’re just jamming alone or with a band, nailing the rhythm can unlock a whole new level of musical expression and cohesion.

Join me as we venture into the world of 4/4, 3/4, and even those funky odd time signatures like 5/4 and 7/8. I promise, they’re not as intimidating as they sound—and they can really spice up your musical life. We’ll break down how subdividing beats into smaller fractions can not only tighten your timing but also expand your expressive range. Plus, I’ll leave you with sneak peeks for next week’s episode on improving band dynamics.

So, hit play and let’s groove through the rhythms together—you don’t want to miss this one!

See you there, NRDs!

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Uncategorized

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!

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Uncategorized

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!

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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!

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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!

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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!

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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!

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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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