I've been working on Neil's way to play 'Blackbird'-- using my thumb as an alternating bass. Trouble is, before TG, I had originally learned how to play it using my index finger to constantly play the G string. It has been tough to unlearn that muscle memory, but it's coming along.
I thought I'd put up a quick comparison of the two ways of playing it, as this has also been asked a few times in the forums... "Why can't I play 'Blackbird' using my index finger?"
I don't remember Neil's exact answer, but I think NOT using your index finger actually gives a more consistent sound with the alternating bass notes.
I think the thumb sounds better as well. Let me know what you think.
Re:'Blackbird' test by AcousticAl
Posted: Sat May 22, 2010 10:05 pm
by Lavallee
Good to see I am not the only practicing tonight! I find that using the thumb to alternate bass, gives a more equal sound to the bass.
Great demo, love your transition animation
Marc
Edit: and I would add that this is a good exercise for the thumb
Re:'Blackbird' test by AcousticAl
Posted: Sat May 22, 2010 10:25 pm
by michelew
It sounds smoother and richer (less tinny) with the thumb. It sounds good Al.
Re:'Blackbird' test by AcousticAl
Posted: Sat May 22, 2010 10:28 pm
by AcousticAl
Thanks for checking it out Marc and Michele.
I agree that it sounds more equal and less tinny without my index finger.
Re:'Blackbird' test by AcousticAl
Posted: Sat May 22, 2010 11:27 pm
by haoli25
Good job Al. You know, that 'Hogan guy' is right about a lot of things concerning the guitar. Congratulations on your transition to the 'right' way.
Bill
Re:'Blackbird' test by AcousticAl
Posted: Sat May 22, 2010 11:50 pm
by Catman
The alternating thumb version definitely sounds better.
David
Re:'Blackbird' test by AcousticAl
Posted: Sun May 23, 2010 1:36 am
by willem
Hi Al,,now is the point for me that i love it in many way's,, you did great..hope that Neil gives us a awnser on the use with alternating thumb,,
ps like Marc i like the vid transition,,can we do that in WMM.??
Re:'Blackbird' test by AcousticAl
Posted: Sun May 23, 2010 2:20 am
by Chasplaya
Definitely more thumb!!
Re:'Blackbird' test by AcousticAl
Posted: Sun May 23, 2010 7:09 am
by AcousticAl
Thanks Bill, David, Chas & Willem.
I was frustrated at first, thinking- "I already (kinda) know the song! Why bother UNlearning it and learning it AGAIN?!"
I think the answer is in the video- even though it is subtle. I will do a full song upload soon.
BTW Willem- the transition is from AVS. Unfortunately I think that's the program that you couldn't get to work on your computer.
Re: 'Blackbird' test by AcousticAl
Posted: Sun May 23, 2010 7:18 am
by Yamaha48
Hello Al.
Nice to see you here with this fantastic tune.
I think that the second is bether,i agree whit Marc.
Not easy to learn off how to play this tune.
Thanks fore share your great video.