How the Altered Scale Enhances Country Music Solos
Introduction
Country music and the guitar are a match made in heaven. Over the years, guitarists in this genre have pushed the boundaries of traditional playing styles, adding more complex scales and techniques to make their sound stand out. One such tool that’s gaining popularity is the altered scale. While it’s more commonly associated with jazz or blues, the altered scale is making waves in country music too, adding a unique edge that sets guitarists apart.
In this blog post, we’ll dive into the altered scale guitar in country music. You’ll learn what the altered scale is, why it’s being embraced by country musicians, and how you can incorporate it into your own playing. By the end of this post, you’ll have a new tool in your guitar-playing toolkit that can elevate your country sound.
What is the Altered Scale?
Let’s start with the basics. The altered scale is a seven-note scale derived from the melodic minor scale, typically used over dominant chords. It’s called “altered” because it alters the 9th, 5th, and 13th intervals in the dominant scale, giving it a distinct, slightly dissonant sound.
For example, in the key of C, the altered scale would look like this:
- C – Db – Eb – E – F# – Ab – Bb
It might seem a little complicated at first, but once you understand its structure, it opens up tons of creative possibilities, especially when playing over dominant chords like G7, C7, or A7.
Why Use the Altered Scale in Country Music?
Country music has always been about storytelling and emotion, but as the genre evolves, so do the musical techniques that guitarists use to convey those feelings. The altered scale introduces a more complex, jazz-infused flavor into the mix. When used sparingly, it adds tension and release, creating a more dramatic, dynamic sound.
Here’s why it’s becoming a game-changer for country guitarists:
- Adding Depth to Solos: Country solos are often straightforward, with major scales or pentatonic patterns dominating the landscape. The altered scale, however, adds layers of sophistication to your lead playing, giving your solos an unexpected twist that grabs listeners’ attention.
- Improvisation Opportunities: The altered scale is a great tool for guitarists who love to improvise. In genres like jazz or fusion, improvisation is key, and country guitarists are starting to embrace this approach more. The altered scale allows you to break out of the same old licks and try something different.
- Blending Genres: Country music is no stranger to borrowing from other genres, whether it’s rock, blues, or even pop. The altered scale brings a touch of jazz or blues into your country playing, creating a fusion of sounds that can stand out in today’s increasingly genre-blurring musical landscape.
How to Use the Altered Scale in Country Guitar
So, how do you start using the altered scale in your country guitar playing? It’s all about applying it in the right context.
1. Use Over Dominant Chords
The altered scale is most effective when played over dominant 7th chords (like G7, D7, or A7), which are common in country music. You don’t want to overuse it—think of it as a spice that adds flavor to your solo or rhythm parts. A little goes a long way.
2. Create Tension and Release
One of the best things about the altered scale is its ability to build tension. When you play these “altered” notes over a dominant chord, the dissonance creates a feeling of suspense. But when you resolve the tension by returning to a more familiar scale or chord, it gives your playing an emotional payoff that country listeners love.
3. Start Slow, Then Experiment
If you’re new to the altered scale, don’t feel pressured to use it in every solo. Start by incorporating it into one part of your solo—maybe a bridge or the tail end of a verse. Over time, as you get more comfortable with the sound, you can start experimenting with different patterns, chord progressions, and techniques.
Examples of Country Songs Featuring the Altered Scale
You might be wondering, “Are any country musicians already using this?” While the altered scale isn’t as widespread in country as it is in jazz or blues, some modern country guitarists are starting to incorporate it. Guitarists like Brad Paisley and Brent Mason occasionally dip into jazzier sounds, introducing complex scales like the altered scale into their solos.
Conclusion
The altered scale guitar in country music may seem like an unusual pairing at first, but it’s a powerful tool that can add richness, tension, and a fresh sound to your playing. While it’s not a scale you’ll use all the time, knowing how to incorporate it can set you apart from other guitarists and expand your musical vocabulary.
So, the next time you pick up your guitar, don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. Start experimenting with the altered scale and watch as your solos take on a whole new life!
FAQs
1. What is the altered scale in guitar?
The altered scale is a seven-note scale that alters certain intervals of a dominant scale. It’s often used over dominant 7th chords to create tension and release in music.
2. How is the altered scale used in country music?
In country music, the altered scale can add a touch of jazz-like complexity to guitar solos, especially when used over dominant 7th chords.
3. Is the altered scale difficult to learn?
While the altered scale can feel complex at first, it’s fairly easy to learn with practice. Start by understanding its structure and try it over dominant chords.
4. Can beginners use the altered scale in country music?
Yes! Beginners can experiment with the altered scale by starting slowly and using it in specific parts of a solo. It’s a great way to expand your musical vocabulary.
5. Which country guitarists use the altered scale?
While not many country guitarists use it heavily, players like Brad Paisley and Brent Mason occasionally incorporate jazz scales like the altered scale into their solos.