#12. Write actual songs -- so true. AC/DC's original record producers Harry Vanda and George Young had a system where they would sit down at an upright acoustic piano and bash out potential songs for the upcoming album project (they employed this technique with all bands, including Rose Tattoo -- a huge influence on Guns 'N' Roses). If there was a part in the song that didn't pass the piano test by being a bit clunky and awkward then the band were told to tighten it up and come back again. In other words, a song is a song is a song. That's why you can do a folky ballad version of Iron Maiden's 'Number of the Beast', a jazzy lounge take of 'Enter Sandman' by Metallica, or a bluegrass arrangement of Motorhead's 'Ace of Spades' and make them all sound brilliant. If a song is bullet-proof at it's core, then any fancy riffage and shredding over the top is just gravy.
Along the same lines.... a band (from Glenn's neck of the woods) called Luther Wright And The Wrongs did a bluegrass/country version of the ENTIRETY of Pink Floyd's The Wall. It's astoundingly good, largely because the original album is so strong.
As I recall, Vinnie Paul from Pantera said that the first change came when they were about to do a gig and Vinnie didn't want to put on the leather stuff because it was a hassle, so they all agreed to just go out in regular cloths. Moral of the story is a big change to your band can come from an unusual place. Being authentic is a good way to keep fans and to stay happy playing music.
I'll never forget the day when my grandpa was teaching me about music as a kid. "Music is wonderful, beautiful, happy, sad. I love and listen to any genre of music. Except polka, wtf." Hahaha I actually dont mind it too much but yeah, I can see why there isnt a mass appeal for it lol
Yeah buts its bad if you want make a promotion photo and the bassist have colours between his teeth, you know its not looking well :'D. And who want to carry a teethbrush so he can clean it up, nobody so. So don't eat it, even when its taste good :D
7:36 I was really happy to see Glenn clarify the distinction between troubled people who are basically self medicating and kids who think they need to wreck themselves in order to project or maintain an image. It was a classy way to make the point.
20 years ago, my band was entering a radio contest where the winning band would get an opening spot on some local music festival. As part of the contest, we had to send in a cd demo of some songs. In an effort to seem original, we took the booklet out of my GnR Use your Illusion cd, taped pictures of our faces over those of the GnR guys. We removed some of the plastic covering the cd case hinge, and inserter lego heads that sort of looked like each of us. When the winner was announced, we couldn't believe we weren't picked. We called up the dj and asked why we didn't win. We told him which cd was ours. He said he took one look at the cd case and though it was a joke, that we weren't a real band. Then he had a listen to it and said the music sucked. Yeah...we could've been huge....
I like how when I submitted one of my songs to one of the morning mix reviews, one of the criticisms in the chat was that the song seemed like I didn’t know what genre I wanted it to be. I personally took it as a compliment as that meant it did its own thing, whether the song as a whole was good or not. At least I tried something new, right?
"Music you like, or music you don't'. I've been saying this for years. You can't even use good and bad because there's lots of bad music I love, and lots of good music that I just cant get into. I'm not necessarily a metal guy, I'm all over the place musically, but I love you're content. Keep up the great work Glenn.
A great idea that I heard from Tommy Morello. He was obsessing with his sound and spent more time tweaking knobs and stuff to find that sound. When he had his gear stolen he had to start finding it again. He said he was torturing himself over finding the perfect sound. Instead he found something decent then taped the knobs and found his style within that sound. Don't obsess with tone. Obsess with technique and style.
_Just pick a decent sound, and find your own style within it._ 👍 I’ve definitely thought about that being the best strategy. My eyes glaze over for most of the tone shaping discussions here. They might as well be arguing about which state grows the best lemons for a particular dessert recipe. I’m a little more familiar with tweaking oscillators than amplifiers & pickups anyway. Now where’s yer muzik, lady? I know you’ve got some! Gimme.
After I got my first guitar, I played for probably a few years in private before I ever dared to play in public or at a guitar store. I was far more interested in making me sound better before I tried to make my guitar sound better. If you have the technique, you can do wonderous things regardless of how much you spent on your gear.
this is true, look at the greats of the past. Hendrix didn't have pedals or modulators or anything like that, all he had was a guitar and he made it sing. all the fancy gadgets and gizmos won't make you sound as good as actually being able to play. this goes for all instruments including vocals (auto-tune is not an instrument).
"Write actual songs" I'm honestly convinced this is why so many metalheads online claim to hate Ghost. They write actual songs and mostly play in standard tuning. Oh, and their mix isn't compressed to all shit so you can hear everything. The reaction to "what's the key" got me. I play bass (I'm about to break your stereotype with this) and I tried out for a hardcore band (I guess) a few years back. I haven't been in a band like that in years and the guitarist was basically just playing the low-E string (in drop D) really fast and just moving his fingers fast on that string. This was my first time hearing this and was playing along/trying to come up with a bass line. I flat out asked "What key is this song in?" The dude replied with, "Drop D." And this guy was older than me at almost 30 and had allegedly been playing for since he was in high school or earlier. There was no reason for that to be the response. I told him what a key was and then I could figure it out from there and he just didn't know how to react. I suggested throwing a chorus into a song they were working on and had a backing vocal to go along with a melody and apparently that rubbed them the wrong way and said I was "too pop punk" for the band. Oh well. It's an interesting story.
They never play in standard tuning. It's always D standard and once in a blue moon at drop C but their guitar tone is always very clear compared to most modern metal
@@Memu_ I haven’t run into many bands who do D-standard regularly. Usually it’s really low drop tunings because they want their riffs to be chords to sound heavier.
I haven't recorded metal in ages, but all of the advice you give is applicable to almost every genre of popular music. People who don't record metal should watch your videos regardless, because they might learn something they can apply to their sessions and... wait for it... make their tracks more interesting. Keep up the great channel.
I don't record anything, I'm not a (good) musician and don't particularly listen to metal but I do like to watch Mr. frickin' Fricker's freaking videos. I respect his topical and life knowledge and I like his matter-of-fact way of sharing it. Oh... and his rough humor. When anyone gets bent out of shape by his words, well they're taking the wrong words to heart.
Yep, I don't play metal. I've heard several people say my band's music sounds like alt-rock, with some pop punk elements, but at the end of the day we're just worried about making stuff that sounds good. Mr. Fricker basically taught me how to play bass years before I got my hands on one, and I like to think I've picked up quite a few writing and performance tricks from watching his videos over the years. He's a smart guy, and I'd have to be stupid to overlook his advice with all that experience under his belt
I had these problems from when I was in a band. I came into it with guys that had no songwriting skills and were more interested in looking the part. We had unique music with metal and hardcore influences, but had our own thing going on. It was tight and we were a band. Ultimately, the singer was interested more in making sure that he danced around on stage. It didn’t end well and that’s when I learned that real musicians exist in a space with no voice. Find real musicians and the rest will work as long as you’re willing to give up parts of your mindset on what makes a metal band.
Man that's being lucky! All of the bands i've been in were guys more interested in drinking beer/talking than playing or guys that had no skills and just dreams of being the next rockstar. I've only managed to find one band where guys were fun to hang out with/ played well but sadly it broke up
Finding a good bsnd with musicisns is not easy, never has been and never will be. You may have to go through dozens of bands to find your fit, or it may not. It takes hard work just like every other aspect of being in a band and making music.
Hey Glenn, can you do a video on criticism? Eg, how do you know which criticism is worth listening too? Distinguishing advice from trolling? When should you take this on board and what should be ignored? Many of the greatest rock bands of all time were absolutely slated by critics (and big magazines too) throughout their careers, but obviously still became hugely successful
That sounds awesome. Black Sabbath was labeled by critics as a worse version of Cream when they came out, Venom and Napalm Death were considered a joke and I read recently that Cynic was looked down upon and ostracized because of death metal and jazz fusion sound. Yet all of these bands became iconic in their own way.
listen to all of them and then decide which ones you agree/disagree with and which ones you want to follow / avoid. Regardless of what you do or don't do whether it's good or bad someone will always criticize you, might as well live the life you want and do things your own way.
This is a good idea for a video. If you're asking the question, I'd say there are at least two types of criticism to listen to: emotional, and informed. Emotional criticism is when average listeners inarticulately state whether the music moves them or not; this tells you if you are reaching your audience. Informed criticism is when someone (usually a professional critic) can articulate what they believe you were trying to achieve, and whether you did or did not succeed; this can give you clues about ways to do things better. Conversely, don't listen to criticism that complains that you just suck or you don't match what the critic considers "proper" or whatever. These people are looking for artists to conform to their expectations, and unless you're desperate for a co-dependent relationship, there's nothing to be gained by listening to them.
@@sm5574 Agreed! But even some informed criticism can be worth ignoring sometimes. I went to a studio once to record a single and the mix that came back was awful. The guy insisted that it was "the sound" we were after. In the end I just asked for the stems and mixed it myself. Did a blind test to some friends and they all agreed my mix was better (and I am certainly no engineer). I guess sometimes you have to go with your gut
The point about Pantera changing is really inspirational. Makes me hope that some of these djenty modern metal bands will stop sounding so stale and BRANCH OUT with their awesome talent and production.
GLENNNNNN! I’m not a fan of John Mayer, but when he said ‘It's my failure to sound like my heroes that's allowed me to sound like myself’ I can respect that and understand it holds a lot of weight. I suppose that you don’t have to be a carbon copy of your favourite bands, but be comfortable in your own limitations to realise what makes you sound like you and build from there. John’s talent and musicianship probably help him with this, but there can’t be any doubt that putting in the time and work to your instrument and music will make you sound like the best version of you, and not a poor imitation of your favourite bands. Just to be completely clear, I’m not a JM fan in any way, but we can always learn from other people’s experience. That’s just my thoughts. Great show as always. Thanks
Always love these sorts of videos man! I play guitar in a 3-piece instrumental band comprising of guitar, bass and drums. We have a progressive hard rock/occasionally metal style. We go for a "real and live" recording philosophy in the studio by recording live full band performances of each song via mic'ing the full kit and mic'ing the amp cabinets (which are isolated), so no re-amping or VSTs/IRs, no drum samples, instrument replacements or grid alignment and no metronomes. It works well because we're well rehearsed and tight, but not robotic. We want there to be a consistency between the studio product and live product. No trickery. It's working well for us. It's a passion project and a bonding experience as the 3 of us have been in bands since a very young age (sometimes the same bands haha!) We don't proclaim originality with our music per se as that's getting harder to achieve with each passing day, especially in "heavier" genres, but our influences are identifiable without sounding contrived. Love the advice, keep it coming! Scottish fan 🏴
Objection your honor: Being late for rehearsal doesn't need brain power nor the entitlement infused excuse that comes after that. What needs brain power is to persuade said person that it's not acceptable to do that.
Ah, Glenn. I love you, man. As soon as you said "we are all individuals" I thought of that clip and was delighted that you included it as well as the follow up. Still probably my favorite Monty Python movie.
Speaking of Def Leppard, who are one of my favorite bands of all time, what do you think about Rick Allen’s historical comeback from losing his arm in a car accident?
I'm amazed beyond. And I got to see him perform his very first live performance on the comeback = Monsters of Rock 1986!!! Nuremberg, Germany with my Army buddies.
Hey Glen, another on point video! I’m a basic bedroom rockstar these days, but in the 90s I played in an alt rock band after being bored with previous metal bands I played in. We never went anywhere (weak singer) but wrote with the goal of never writing the same song twice. We blended pop, metal, rock , punk, industrial, jazz, yadda yadda yadda, and I still listen to our demos and smile knowing 5 kids who had no business working together could create such art. I love metal, still write and record tunes for my friends to listen to, but I still use the previous bands approach-do something different each time. I dig your honesty and experience, and while I’m not nearly tech savvy as yourself or others here, I take what you offer and apply to the best of my ability. For that, I thank you man. Warm wishes from Barrie, Ontario 🤘🏻
Hey Glenn, I've watched your 6 years old plugin demo right after this video and found out that you've done a pretty good job in losing weight. Stay well!
#10 Trapped By Genre - reminds me of Pink Floyd’s Another Brick in The Wall of which producer Bob Ezrin suggested applying Disco elements. Although the band was remotely close to the genre, they took the advice and the album turned out a huge success.
A band called Iron Savior wrote a sci-fi story and most of their music is inspired by it. I think it's a good way to find idea's for music and lets you explore some interesting topics.
In previous bands ive mentioned to the members; how we have the opportunity to easily sweep the scene and move on cause the backyard thing was getting played out. I brought up how we should start taking more time to sit down with our music to produce more structured and "uniformed" songs, versus random cool souding riffs that sounded like random parts but the guitarist who started the project and the other vocalist felt that I was sucking the fun out the music. The practices always got turned into kick backs even when we were at paid practice spots and the practice studio wasnt just around the corner. So time AND money got wasted. Then the gigs were mostly last minute and the majority of the shows we played were pretty much us practicing the songs aka "winging it" 🤦🏾♂️(embarassing). When I saw that the guitarist wasnt gonna give and the other memebers were gonna follow suit and everyone was comfrotable with mediocrity I had to bail and re-evaluate music as far as playing with others, and I knew trying to start a band as a vocalist that didnt have a grip on music to actually have songs to present was gonna be hard. Later I just said "f*ck it" started learning music theory, started writing music on programs that had good progression, then I got with some solid dudes who I would never thought to project with it just happened and its working out.
Also important: be on the same page as to what kind of band you are. Back in school I was in a band where the two guitarists both wrote songs. One wrote tongue in cheek two and a half minute pieces about bad horror movies, while the other came with well researched ten minute epics about Nordic mythology and Viking raids.
You don't have to choose one of those. I think that's the point of the video. If you want music that is representative of you, then it should have all of you in the mix.
@@michaelcoutts9470 the important word here is "in the mix". Putting different styles together for an interesting sound is a great idea, these guys however just had two very different ideas of how the band should sound and wouldn't allow any input of the other one into their songs. Basically two guys making a solo project each and trying to save money by using the same musicians and equipment.
Doing the bloopers at the end makes your channel even more entertaining. Now that you have my opinion - the only one that matters - feel free to keep doing it.
Glen!!! Best episode ever!!!!!!! I agree with every point you made. When I think about it, I haven't heard any music come out in the last two decades that really grabbed my attention. That's not to say that there hasn't been any good songs, but you don't see that amazing group of musicians that holds the attention of the world anymore, where not everyone likes them, but everyone has heard of them. I am definitely influenced by a lot of bands from the 80's and 90's. I love writing something heavy with strong clean vocals that you can understand, but the main focus is to get their heads nodding to the beat. Seems to be working on a small scale. Keep up the good work.🤘🤘
One of my favorite videos you've ever done here. The whole "next big thing" reminds me of the extreme song "Hip Today". Opening words are "You'll be gone tomorrow". Now I'm off to go go shop for my next guitar.
i think it's because us "smart" metal fans don't hinge our lives on a career that less than 1% of people succeed at. i was 17 when i realized i didn't really want to "make it big" in music , and was just happy playing music for myself , and collecting basses , sadly my collection never got past 4 bassses , and today i only have 3 basses. Also i used to run my own home studio for local kids, (often had to fill in for their no show bass players too) but haven't done it in years because some one stole a bunch of my recording stuff. P.S. Crayons are just fine if you dip them in ranch dressing.
3:42 Party Cannon are a fantastic example of this, look at any festival they're in and their logo sticks so far out that it's almost impossible to notice any other bands on the bill
If I record with Glenn, you bet I'm bringing edible crayons just to mess with him. ...right before I ask to borrow his bass because mine isn't intonated.
After just writing a rant where I touched on a lot of the points you just did - I think this video needs to be seen by anyone trying to play any genre. If I had a dime for every wannabe "hitmaker" I've had to work with in the last 25 years who thought that following the trends to a "T", buying the same Hot Topic garb, and focusing on which GIbson they think "I" should buy to "look the part" (I just use what I want, and it sounds great), I'd have enough money to start my own label and supergroup. You've got my upvote on this big time.
I like your last statement "you're all individuals, you're all different". You saying that reminded me that I used to hate bands that sounded like other bands, but after a while you realize they don't really sound like the band they're trying to copy because it's different people on every instrument and no 2 musicians are going to play a drum beat or guitar riff in the same exact way. Also there are just people who naturally play a certain way even if it sounds like something that's already been done.
I've been thinking about composition a lot lately. I consider myself a metalhead, but I also love 70s prog, and stuff like Peter Gabriel's solo work. Recently got into Billy Joel of all people, and started thinking about how some artists' ongoing popularity seems to come from the fact that the songwriting is just next level. I've been pondering it for a while and I can't think of a metal band that applies. Opeth? Maybe at times, but not quite. I've also been finding myself worried that metal, in it's entirety, may end up in the trash bin of history like big band music or skiffle. Real metal was supposed to be above trends and last forever. But the things that seem to really endure, excellent composition and songwriting, seem to be in short supply. But really constructing amazing songs is much harder than just piling a bunch of riffs together. Beginning to worry I don't have it. I wonder if it's a skill that can be learned.
I had some similar thoughts here. A lot of my favorite music has timeless songwriting. I too would love to share something beautiful with the world, and sometimes it does seem unattainable. Anything can be learned, with consistent practice! You’re already studying the greats just by listening. Analyze their lyrical and melodic structures, and see if you notice any patterns or “rules.” Look for free and paid resources (videos, books, blogs, courses) on songwriting and creative writing in general. Write shxxty songs, and then write more shxxty songs. Keep improving. 💪 Speaking of the great songwriters of the 60’s and 70’s… many of them grew up on skiffle and big band, so I‘d say those styles _do_ have an ongoing legacy.
Glenn, you even used the pic of Pantera where Phil is wearing the Exhorder shirt in making the point about them doing their own thing. I don't mean to rehash the debate about whether they were copying Exhorder (and I totally agree with your point) but it was pretty funny nonetheless.
I just play riffs I think are heavy, on whatever I have in my hands at the time. A great riff doesn't need distortion to sound amazing, it should already sound great and be slightly elevated from there.
Standing out is always important for any musician ever. I live in Manaus, Brazil and play in a pub band. You know, playing covers in pubs with two of my mates. Here, we got a whole bunch of carbon copy cover bands who look the same, play the same songs, say the same things to the crowd... Bottom line, you couldn't pick those guys out of a line up So, me and the guys had this crazy idea of dressing up as cowboys and playing metal versions of country, 50's rock and blues songs. At first, some people that knew us said "you're just gonna be known as 'those weird guys in cowboy hats'". My answer to that was "EXACTLY! We're gonna be known as 'those weird guys in cowboy hats' as opposed to 'just another cover band like the other 500'" Worked like a charm. We come on stage wearing cowboy hats, start the show by sounding the theme to "the good, the bad and the ugly" on the speakers, right into our versions of "Ghost riders in the sky" and "Sixteen tons" and people go NUTS! Don't be afraid to stand out. TRUST ME
You didn’t mention Quiet Riot. They had a huge impact the way I remember it. Not that I’m some metal historian, but they were huge back before the rest of the glam bands and heavier bands showed up.
I'm still gonna be cranking Cherry Pie every time it comes on though! I love those drum and guitar sounds, always have, always will! It puts a smile on my face 10 miles wide!!!
Burp level check has returned! I was really hoping for an awesome outtake reel for this one. But its OK, the vid was great. Many points that seem to be missed these days.
YES! There are the 13 commandments for making Metal Music. You should put them up behind your bed and recite them before you go to sleep! Great video as always Glenn, and the Life of Brian ending was just hilarious!!!
Hey Glenn, awesome vid! Any Bands you discovered recently that are doing something unique and interesting? Or maybe just some songs/albums which are playing on repeat?
Im not glen but i would suggest berried alive and they do this sort of trap guitar thing and not like lo fi like ichika or poppy trap like polyphia but kinda like horrorcore trap vut with tech riffs
I really love reason number 10 as it does get really annoying to see other comments and several TH-cam videos talk about oh it’s this type of music or they should stick with this or that. I don’t like thinking that way. Obviously there are some influences from different genres involved in my repertoire, but the music is just my music at the end of the day.
#12. Write actual songs -- so true. AC/DC's original record producers Harry Vanda and George Young had a system where they would sit down at an upright acoustic piano and bash out potential songs for the upcoming album project (they employed this technique with all bands, including Rose Tattoo -- a huge influence on Guns 'N' Roses). If there was a part in the song that didn't pass the piano test by being a bit clunky and awkward then the band were told to tighten it up and come back again. In other words, a song is a song is a song. That's why you can do a folky ballad version of Iron Maiden's 'Number of the Beast', a jazzy lounge take of 'Enter Sandman' by Metallica, or a bluegrass arrangement of Motorhead's 'Ace of Spades' and make them all sound brilliant. If a song is bullet-proof at it's core, then any fancy riffage and shredding over the top is just gravy.
How true.
This! F***ing yes this! Good songwriting is universal across all genres!
Spot on
Along the same lines.... a band (from Glenn's neck of the woods) called Luther Wright And The Wrongs did a bluegrass/country version of the ENTIRETY of Pink Floyd's The Wall. It's astoundingly good, largely because the original album is so strong.
Wow I never realized this, but it makes so much sense !
As I recall, Vinnie Paul from Pantera said that the first change came when they were about to do a gig and Vinnie didn't want to put on the leather stuff because it was a hassle, so they all agreed to just go out in regular cloths. Moral of the story is a big change to your band can come from an unusual place. Being authentic is a good way to keep fans and to stay happy playing music.
22yr old thrash metal guitarist 😎🎸
"there's only 2 kinds of music. music you like and music you don't like" can we please get a round of applause 👏
Which is why I call Sousa, Shostakovich, and The Cars metal! ;-)
That's incorrect. There is also Polka. Seriously. Polka.
@@legacyShredder1 Dude, I play polka as well. And just like any other genre, some polkas are fun and some not.
1) Music that sounds good, 2) Music that sounds even better when you're high.
I'll never forget the day when my grandpa was teaching me about music as a kid. "Music is wonderful, beautiful, happy, sad. I love and listen to any genre of music. Except polka, wtf." Hahaha I actually dont mind it too much but yeah, I can see why there isnt a mass appeal for it lol
On behalf of all bassist, if they didn't want you to eat them they wouldn't have made them nontoxic and delicious
That's because they were redesigned as MREs for Marines.
Come on, you know it's more about the bright and earthy colors.
Yeah buts its bad if you want make a promotion photo and the bassist have colours between his teeth, you know its not looking well :'D. And who want to carry a teethbrush so he can clean it up, nobody so. So don't eat it, even when its taste good :D
@@Jurrx Tie Dye teeth are cool
💯💯💯
7:36 I was really happy to see Glenn clarify the distinction between troubled people who are basically self medicating and kids who think they need to wreck themselves in order to project or maintain an image. It was a classy way to make the point.
Now that we are thoroughly in the Layers Of Irony era, I think “Rotting Fleshnozzles From Venus” sounds like good name for a woodwind ensemble.
Write great songs, play what you love, and the originality will follow. Even Black Sabbath was thought of as a Led Zeppelin clone in the beginning...
13 Ways to still sound BRUTAL in Standard Turning
20 years ago, my band was entering a radio contest where the winning band would get an opening spot on some local music festival. As part of the contest, we had to send in a cd demo of some songs. In an effort to seem original, we took the booklet out of my GnR Use your Illusion cd, taped pictures of our faces over those of the GnR guys. We removed some of the plastic covering the cd case hinge, and inserter lego heads that sort of looked like each of us. When the winner was announced, we couldn't believe we weren't picked. We called up the dj and asked why we didn't win. We told him which cd was ours. He said he took one look at the cd case and though it was a joke, that we weren't a real band. Then he had a listen to it and said the music sucked. Yeah...we could've been huge....
Lmfao You definitely took a huge L that day.
Id bet you kick some ass nowadays! Great story!
Haha I think that's brilliant.
I'm glad for those times when someone just straight told me I sucked. It helped.
Being told you suck is a great kick in the pants to get better. Great story
I like how when I submitted one of my songs to one of the morning mix reviews, one of the criticisms in the chat was that the song seemed like I didn’t know what genre I wanted it to be. I personally took it as a compliment as that meant it did its own thing, whether the song as a whole was good or not. At least I tried something new, right?
Or you can just write a good song.
"Music you like, or music you don't'. I've been saying this for years. You can't even use good and bad because there's lots of bad music I love, and lots of good music that I just cant get into. I'm not necessarily a metal guy, I'm all over the place musically, but I love you're content. Keep up the great work Glenn.
1. Did you really have to buy actual crayons to hurt me like that?
2. Thanks for your work Glenn.
3. I'm jealous of your hair.
I know, and now there’s a coloring book and typewriter keys 🔑🥺
My guitarist was curious how I kept going through crayons so quickly. Now he won't let me have anymore 😭
A great idea that I heard from Tommy Morello. He was obsessing with his sound and spent more time tweaking knobs and stuff to find that sound. When he had his gear stolen he had to start finding it again. He said he was torturing himself over finding the perfect sound. Instead he found something decent then taped the knobs and found his style within that sound. Don't obsess with tone. Obsess with technique and style.
_Just pick a decent sound, and find your own style within it._ 👍 I’ve definitely thought about that being the best strategy.
My eyes glaze over for most of the tone shaping discussions here. They might as well be arguing about which state grows the best lemons for a particular dessert recipe. I’m a little more familiar with tweaking oscillators than amplifiers & pickups anyway.
Now where’s yer muzik, lady? I know you’ve got some! Gimme.
After I got my first guitar, I played for probably a few years in private before I ever dared to play in public or at a guitar store. I was far more interested in making me sound better before I tried to make my guitar sound better. If you have the technique, you can do wonderous things regardless of how much you spent on your gear.
this is true, look at the greats of the past. Hendrix didn't have pedals or modulators or anything like that, all he had was a guitar and he made it sing. all the fancy gadgets and gizmos won't make you sound as good as actually being able to play. this goes for all instruments including vocals (auto-tune is not an instrument).
@@collinnicholasns ok boomer
Something I do is play the guitar without the amp and try to think about what the sound is gonna be before I turn the amp on
"Write actual songs"
I'm honestly convinced this is why so many metalheads online claim to hate Ghost. They write actual songs and mostly play in standard tuning. Oh, and their mix isn't compressed to all shit so you can hear everything.
The reaction to "what's the key" got me.
I play bass (I'm about to break your stereotype with this) and I tried out for a hardcore band (I guess) a few years back. I haven't been in a band like that in years and the guitarist was basically just playing the low-E string (in drop D) really fast and just moving his fingers fast on that string. This was my first time hearing this and was playing along/trying to come up with a bass line.
I flat out asked "What key is this song in?"
The dude replied with, "Drop D." And this guy was older than me at almost 30 and had allegedly been playing for since he was in high school or earlier. There was no reason for that to be the response. I told him what a key was and then I could figure it out from there and he just didn't know how to react.
I suggested throwing a chorus into a song they were working on and had a backing vocal to go along with a melody and apparently that rubbed them the wrong way and said I was "too pop punk" for the band.
Oh well. It's an interesting story.
They never play in standard tuning. It's always D standard and once in a blue moon at drop C but their guitar tone is always very clear compared to most modern metal
@@Memu_ It's usually just drop whatever
@@ryanshinermusic?
@@Memu_ I haven’t run into many bands who do D-standard regularly. Usually it’s really low drop tunings because they want their riffs to be chords to sound heavier.
@@ryanshinermusic I meant that Ghost always play in D standard and on songs like Mummy Dust or Hunter's Moon they play in drop C
Excellent video. A lot of truth there.
Glenn holds up a twig.
"THIS IS NOT A FUCKING FONT."
😂
I haven't recorded metal in ages, but all of the advice you give is applicable to almost every genre of popular music. People who don't record metal should watch your videos regardless, because they might learn something they can apply to their sessions and... wait for it... make their tracks more interesting. Keep up the great channel.
I don't record anything, I'm not a (good) musician and don't particularly listen to metal but I do like to watch Mr. frickin' Fricker's freaking videos.
I respect his topical and life knowledge and I like his matter-of-fact way of sharing it. Oh... and his rough humor. When anyone gets bent out of shape by his words, well they're taking the wrong words to heart.
Yep, I don't play metal. I've heard several people say my band's music sounds like alt-rock, with some pop punk elements, but at the end of the day we're just worried about making stuff that sounds good.
Mr. Fricker basically taught me how to play bass years before I got my hands on one, and I like to think I've picked up quite a few writing and performance tricks from watching his videos over the years. He's a smart guy, and I'd have to be stupid to overlook his advice with all that experience under his belt
I had these problems from when I was in a band. I came into it with guys that had no songwriting skills and were more interested in looking the part.
We had unique music with metal and hardcore influences, but had our own thing going on. It was tight and we were a band. Ultimately, the singer was interested more in making sure that he danced around on stage. It didn’t end well and that’s when I learned that real musicians exist in a space with no voice. Find real musicians and the rest will work as long as you’re willing to give up parts of your mindset on what makes a metal band.
Man that's being lucky! All of the bands i've been in were guys more interested in drinking beer/talking than playing or guys that had no skills and just dreams of being the next rockstar. I've only managed to find one band where guys were fun to hang out with/ played well but sadly it broke up
@ALONY stage presence is made up bullshit by hair metal.
Finding a good bsnd with musicisns is not easy, never has been and never will be. You may have to go through dozens of bands to find your fit, or it may not. It takes hard work just like every other aspect of being in a band and making music.
Hey Glenn, can you do a video on criticism? Eg, how do you know which criticism is worth listening too? Distinguishing advice from trolling? When should you take this on board and what should be ignored? Many of the greatest rock bands of all time were absolutely slated by critics (and big magazines too) throughout their careers, but obviously still became hugely successful
That sounds awesome. Black Sabbath was labeled by critics as a worse version of Cream when they came out, Venom and Napalm Death were considered a joke and I read recently that Cynic was looked down upon and ostracized because of death metal and jazz fusion sound. Yet all of these bands became iconic in their own way.
listen to all of them and then decide which ones you agree/disagree with and which ones you want to follow / avoid.
Regardless of what you do or don't do whether it's good or bad someone will always criticize you, might as well live the life you want and do things your own way.
@@ognjenmilenkovic3050 The sabbath one was my exact thought when writing this haha! Can be hard to tell if you are being unique or just shit lol
This is a good idea for a video.
If you're asking the question, I'd say there are at least two types of criticism to listen to: emotional, and informed. Emotional criticism is when average listeners inarticulately state whether the music moves them or not; this tells you if you are reaching your audience. Informed criticism is when someone (usually a professional critic) can articulate what they believe you were trying to achieve, and whether you did or did not succeed; this can give you clues about ways to do things better.
Conversely, don't listen to criticism that complains that you just suck or you don't match what the critic considers "proper" or whatever. These people are looking for artists to conform to their expectations, and unless you're desperate for a co-dependent relationship, there's nothing to be gained by listening to them.
@@sm5574 Agreed! But even some informed criticism can be worth ignoring sometimes.
I went to a studio once to record a single and the mix that came back was awful. The guy insisted that it was "the sound" we were after. In the end I just asked for the stems and mixed it myself. Did a blind test to some friends and they all agreed my mix was better (and I am certainly no engineer).
I guess sometimes you have to go with your gut
The point about Pantera changing is really inspirational. Makes me hope that some of these djenty modern metal bands will stop sounding so stale and BRANCH OUT with their awesome talent and production.
GLENNNNNN!
I’m not a fan of John Mayer, but when he said ‘It's my failure to sound like my heroes that's allowed me to sound like myself’ I can respect that and understand it holds a lot of weight. I suppose that you don’t have to be a carbon copy of your favourite bands, but be comfortable in your own limitations to realise what makes you sound like you and build from there.
John’s talent and musicianship probably help him with this, but there can’t be any doubt that putting in the time and work to your instrument and music will make you sound like the best version of you, and not a poor imitation of your favourite bands.
Just to be completely clear, I’m not a JM fan in any way, but we can always learn from other people’s experience. That’s just my thoughts.
Great show as always. Thanks
Always love these sorts of videos man! I play guitar in a 3-piece instrumental band comprising of guitar, bass and drums. We have a progressive hard rock/occasionally metal style. We go for a "real and live" recording philosophy in the studio by recording live full band performances of each song via mic'ing the full kit and mic'ing the amp cabinets (which are isolated), so no re-amping or VSTs/IRs, no drum samples, instrument replacements or grid alignment and no metronomes. It works well because we're well rehearsed and tight, but not robotic. We want there to be a consistency between the studio product and live product. No trickery. It's working well for us. It's a passion project and a bonding experience as the 3 of us have been in bands since a very young age (sometimes the same bands haha!)
We don't proclaim originality with our music per se as that's getting harder to achieve with each passing day, especially in "heavier" genres, but our influences are identifiable without sounding contrived.
Love the advice, keep it coming! Scottish fan 🏴
Objection your honor: Being late for rehearsal doesn't need brain power nor the entitlement infused excuse that comes after that. What needs brain power is to persuade said person that it's not acceptable to do that.
I second that.
Ah, Glenn. I love you, man. As soon as you said "we are all individuals" I thought of that clip and was delighted that you included it as well as the follow up. Still probably my favorite Monty Python movie.
Thanks for the Life of Brian clips. I think I need to watch that film again.
Speaking of Def Leppard, who are one of my favorite bands of all time, what do you think about Rick Allen’s historical comeback from losing his arm in a car accident?
I'm amazed beyond. And I got to see him perform his very first live performance on the comeback = Monsters of Rock 1986!!! Nuremberg, Germany with my Army buddies.
@@offtherealm5438 you got to see Def Leppard live?!?!?!?!?!?! Incredible!!!!!
@@davidmcaninch4714 Yes, it was kick ass af.
I worked right by where he lived. Rick is a sweet man. Ran into him daily.
Tying history and speed playing together:
“Music is the space between the notes.”
-Claude Debussy
;-)
Het tried to explain that to Kirk Hammett on St Anger ; )
Modern metal bands really need to watch this. Especially the ones bubbling around in genres that end with -core
Hey! I just put new strings on my Bass, I've earned that fucking crayon!
Thanks Glenn! Fantastic directions for all of us.
Life of Brian at the end was Epic. Thank you for making my Tuesday!
Hey Glen, another on point video!
I’m a basic bedroom rockstar these days, but in the 90s I played in an alt rock band after being bored with previous metal bands I played in. We never went anywhere (weak singer) but wrote with the goal of never writing the same song twice. We blended pop, metal, rock , punk, industrial, jazz, yadda yadda yadda, and I still listen to our demos and smile knowing 5 kids who had no business working together could create such art. I love metal, still write and record tunes for my friends to listen to, but I still use the previous bands approach-do something different each time.
I dig your honesty and experience, and while I’m not nearly tech savvy as yourself or others here, I take what you offer and apply to the best of my ability. For that, I thank you man.
Warm wishes from Barrie, Ontario 🤘🏻
Man, this is one of those video's you have to see back from time to time! Greets from Belgium
Hey Glenn, I've watched your 6 years old plugin demo right after this video and found out that you've done a pretty good job in losing weight. Stay well!
You didn't mention write songs with catchy hooks that will get you airplay on radio, as well as other media, such as digital and online sources!!
"It's not how many notes you play but whether you mean them."- Love it!
That’s my favorite scene from Life of Brian and one I still reference at least three times a week.
#10 Trapped By Genre - reminds me of Pink Floyd’s Another Brick in The Wall of which producer Bob Ezrin suggested applying Disco elements. Although the band was remotely close to the genre, they took the advice and the album turned out a huge success.
Best intro roast yet 11/10
Another excellent video Glenn. We should all tag this one and refer to it at regular intervals. Keep it rockin 🤘🏾
A band called Iron Savior wrote a sci-fi story and most of their music is inspired by it. I think it's a good way to find idea's for music and lets you explore some interesting topics.
Gloryhammer IS a sci-fi story, and that's what makes it so damn good.
In previous bands ive mentioned to the members; how we have the opportunity to easily sweep the scene and move on cause the backyard thing was getting played out. I brought up how we should start taking more time to sit down with our music to produce more structured and "uniformed" songs, versus random cool souding riffs that sounded like random parts but the guitarist who started the project and the other vocalist felt that I was sucking the fun out the music. The practices always got turned into kick backs even when we were at paid practice spots and the practice studio wasnt just around the corner. So time AND money got wasted. Then the gigs were mostly last minute and the majority of the shows we played were pretty much us practicing the songs aka "winging it" 🤦🏾♂️(embarassing). When I saw that the guitarist wasnt gonna give and the other memebers were gonna follow suit and everyone was comfrotable with mediocrity I had to bail and re-evaluate music as far as playing with others, and I knew trying to start a band as a vocalist that didnt have a grip on music to actually have songs to present was gonna be hard. Later I just said "f*ck it" started learning music theory, started writing music on programs that had good progression, then I got with some solid dudes who I would never thought to project with it just happened and its working out.
The funniest thing about this is I ate crayons back when I was 5 and now I play bass lmao
Also important: be on the same page as to what kind of band you are. Back in school I was in a band where the two guitarists both wrote songs. One wrote tongue in cheek two and a half minute pieces about bad horror movies, while the other came with well researched ten minute epics about Nordic mythology and Viking raids.
You don't have to choose one of those. I think that's the point of the video. If you want music that is representative of you, then it should have all of you in the mix.
@@michaelcoutts9470 the important word here is "in the mix". Putting different styles together for an interesting sound is a great idea, these guys however just had two very different ideas of how the band should sound and wouldn't allow any input of the other one into their songs. Basically two guys making a solo project each and trying to save money by using the same musicians and equipment.
I would have loved that band!
sounds like a great band tbh
Doing the bloopers at the end makes your channel even more entertaining.
Now that you have my opinion - the only one that matters - feel free to keep doing it.
Crown Lands, a Canadian band, is an incredible example of this episode!!! Influenced, yes... but, man, what an original spin they put on it!!!
This channel has provided so much entertainment and knowledge since I found it. Thanks, Glenn.
"Alright, fine. I am the messiah. NOW FUCK OFF!"
"How shall we fuck off, oh lord?"
Glen!!!
Best episode ever!!!!!!!
I agree with every point you made.
When I think about it, I haven't heard any music come out in the last two decades that really grabbed my attention. That's not to say that there hasn't been any good songs, but you don't see that amazing group of musicians that holds the attention of the world anymore, where not everyone likes them, but everyone has heard of them. I am definitely influenced by a lot of bands from the 80's and 90's. I love writing something heavy with strong clean vocals that you can understand, but the main focus is to get their heads nodding to the beat. Seems to be working on a small scale.
Keep up the good work.🤘🤘
I'm never giving up gear slavery. No way in hell I'm emancipating my guitars and paying them. They'll get new strings every 18 months and like it.
It's so true. The memorable artists have been bold and not blindly copied what everyone else was doing.
LOVE that you called out the "twiggy", illegible metal logos!
Your videos just keep getting better.
The Monty Python (Life of Brian) ending was awesome!!
One of my favorite videos you've ever done here. The whole "next big thing" reminds me of the extreme song "Hip Today". Opening words are "You'll be gone tomorrow". Now I'm off to go go shop for my next guitar.
i think it's because us "smart" metal fans don't hinge our lives on a career that less than 1% of people succeed at.
i was 17 when i realized i didn't really want to "make it big" in music , and was just happy playing music for myself , and collecting basses , sadly my collection never got past 4 bassses , and today i only have 3 basses. Also i used to run my own home studio for local kids, (often had to fill in for their no show bass players too) but haven't done it in years because some one stole a bunch of my recording stuff.
P.S. Crayons are just fine if you dip them in ranch dressing.
Haha! “This is not a f*****g font!” made me snort my tea out - subscribed
I like this, sums up my original fairly short lived carreer as an artist back in the 90`s
Even tho I do classic rock and other stuff your advices help me a lot
3:42 Party Cannon are a fantastic example of this, look at any festival they're in and their logo sticks so far out that it's almost impossible to notice any other bands on the bill
When you said that there are only two kinds of music, the one you like and the one you don't, well, that hit at the right spot x)
That life of Brian ending was perfect! 😂
Glen, can you do more videos like this? I really enjoyed this.
If I record with Glenn, you bet I'm bringing edible crayons just to mess with him.
...right before I ask to borrow his bass because mine isn't intonated.
After just writing a rant where I touched on a lot of the points you just did - I think this video needs to be seen by anyone trying to play any genre. If I had a dime for every wannabe "hitmaker" I've had to work with in the last 25 years who thought that following the trends to a "T", buying the same Hot Topic garb, and focusing on which GIbson they think "I" should buy to "look the part" (I just use what I want, and it sounds great), I'd have enough money to start my own label and supergroup. You've got my upvote on this big time.
I like your last statement "you're all individuals, you're all different". You saying that reminded me that I used to hate bands that sounded like other bands, but after a while you realize they don't really sound like the band they're trying to copy because it's different people on every instrument and no 2 musicians are going to play a drum beat or guitar riff in the same exact way. Also there are just people who naturally play a certain way even if it sounds like something that's already been done.
I've been thinking about composition a lot lately. I consider myself a metalhead, but I also love 70s prog, and stuff like Peter Gabriel's solo work. Recently got into Billy Joel of all people, and started thinking about how some artists' ongoing popularity seems to come from the fact that the songwriting is just next level. I've been pondering it for a while and I can't think of a metal band that applies. Opeth? Maybe at times, but not quite.
I've also been finding myself worried that metal, in it's entirety, may end up in the trash bin of history like big band music or skiffle. Real metal was supposed to be above trends and last forever. But the things that seem to really endure, excellent composition and songwriting, seem to be in short supply. But really constructing amazing songs is much harder than just piling a bunch of riffs together. Beginning to worry I don't have it. I wonder if it's a skill that can be learned.
I had some similar thoughts here. A lot of my favorite music has timeless songwriting. I too would love to share something beautiful with the world, and sometimes it does seem unattainable.
Anything can be learned, with consistent practice! You’re already studying the greats just by listening. Analyze their lyrical and melodic structures, and see if you notice any patterns or “rules.” Look for free and paid resources (videos, books, blogs, courses) on songwriting and creative writing in general. Write shxxty songs, and then write more shxxty songs. Keep improving. 💪
Speaking of the great songwriters of the 60’s and 70’s… many of them grew up on skiffle and big band, so I‘d say those styles _do_ have an ongoing legacy.
I almost spit out my food when you held up the stick😜 “this is not a font” 🤘😜🤘
We all love you Glen!!
Keep up the good work!!
That then and now pic of Vince had me crying I was laughing so hard. Great points on the rest of the video.
And as a side note, giving your bass player a water coloring book to get around us trying to eat the crayons doesn't work. We'll eat the paint too.
Rotting fleshnozzels from venus … i love it ! I mean … I LOVE IT !!
That ending has me laughing so hard. My boss is telling me to pipe down
So bass players will think Glenn is a big Motley Crue fan... he had so many pics of them! Loved the MP ref at the end! CLASSIC!
Brian is not the messiah, he is a very naughty boy hahaha that last bit made me a laugh and reminded me I haven't watched life of Brian for a while.
Glenn, you even used the pic of Pantera where Phil is wearing the Exhorder shirt in making the point about them doing their own thing. I don't mean to rehash the debate about whether they were copying Exhorder (and I totally agree with your point) but it was pretty funny nonetheless.
Lol. Just noticed your clip art of that 10s Mtn Dew 20string. I saw that thing when l checked their website after your camo lp style rewiew.
I just play riffs I think are heavy, on whatever I have in my hands at the time.
A great riff doesn't need distortion to sound amazing, it should already sound great and be slightly elevated from there.
I still love Pantera, even their old stuff!! Haven't heard it in a while but I remember it sounding like Priest and someone else predominantly....
Priest and perhaps EVH/Randy Rhoads?
Standing out is always important for any musician ever.
I live in Manaus, Brazil and play in a pub band. You know, playing covers in pubs with two of my mates.
Here, we got a whole bunch of carbon copy cover bands who look the same, play the same songs, say the same things to the crowd...
Bottom line, you couldn't pick those guys out of a line up
So, me and the guys had this crazy idea of dressing up as cowboys and playing metal versions of country, 50's rock and blues songs.
At first, some people that knew us said "you're just gonna be known as 'those weird guys in cowboy hats'". My answer to that was "EXACTLY! We're gonna be known as 'those weird guys in cowboy hats' as opposed to 'just another cover band like the other 500'"
Worked like a charm. We come on stage wearing cowboy hats, start the show by sounding the theme to "the good, the bad and the ugly" on the speakers, right into our versions of "Ghost riders in the sky" and "Sixteen tons" and people go NUTS!
Don't be afraid to stand out. TRUST ME
This coloring book has given me loads of inspiration, even more so than the pot! I will now become the slap god. But first I need neon green strings
You didn’t mention Quiet Riot. They had a huge impact the way I remember it. Not that I’m some metal historian, but they were huge back before the rest of the glam bands and heavier bands showed up.
I'm still gonna be cranking Cherry Pie every time it comes on though!
I love those drum and guitar sounds, always have, always will! It puts a smile on my face 10 miles wide!!!
Life of Brian was a PHENOMENAL movie. Actually, most Monty Python stuff was.
Like MREs (meals ready to eat), CREs, (crayons ready to eat). lol. I got that off kentucky ballistics. One of the gun channels I watch.
**Holds up stick** "This isn't a font!"
THANK YOU!!!
Your outtakes are the best.
Burp level check has returned!
I was really hoping for an awesome outtake reel for this one. But its OK, the vid was great. Many points that seem to be missed these days.
"This is not a font" made me laugh-snort coffee out my nose. Well done.
Very on point Glen. I've held many of these beliefs for quite a while.....and it's why I never gelled with fellow musicians in bands very well.
Number 2 is one of the best pieces of advice anyone can give: you don't chase a trend, you want to set them. You want to be an original
YES! There are the 13 commandments for making Metal Music.
You should put them up behind your bed and recite them before you go to sleep!
Great video as always Glenn, and the Life of Brian ending was just hilarious!!!
1:08 YES GLENNNNNN!!! Good on you for correctly shouting out the West Midlands!!
Brilliant ending!!!! And the belch montages are great too
You really hit the head on the nail with this one.
Glenn: Don't get trapped by your genre
Also Glenn: THIS IS A FUCKING METAL SHOOOOW!!!
Just Saiyan. Love you, man.
The members of Black Sabbath said the band was a blues band.
@@orlock20 Is that supposed to have something to do with what I said?
I love the blooper reel keep them coming
8:45 Absolutely great point.
5:50 "not only did they reinvent themselves, they reinvented the steel"
Hey Glenn, awesome vid!
Any Bands you discovered recently that are doing something unique and interesting? Or maybe just some songs/albums which are playing on repeat?
Im not glen but i would suggest berried alive and they do this sort of trap guitar thing and not like lo fi like ichika or poppy trap like polyphia but kinda like horrorcore trap vut with tech riffs
@@sleepdeprivedcat6470 I already know him, thanks for the suggestion tho!
I would say you check out At Hirsizi, dropped their debut this December
I feel like science (cosmology in particular) is full of cool epic sounding words for inspiration and or song names
Simply an excellent video Glenn, thanks!
I really love reason number 10 as it does get really annoying to see other comments and several TH-cam videos talk about oh it’s this type of music or they should stick with this or that. I don’t like thinking that way. Obviously there are some influences from different genres involved in my repertoire, but the music is just my music at the end of the day.