Annihilator: Learn 'Only Be Lonely' Guitar!

Hey guitar enthusiasts! Ready to dive into the aggressive riffs and blistering solos of Annihilator? In this lesson, we're breaking down "Only Be Lonely," a track known for its technical prowess and relentless energy. Whether you're a seasoned shredder or an aspiring metalhead, this guide will equip you with the knowledge and skills to tackle this challenging yet rewarding piece. So, grab your guitar, tune to standard E, and let's get started!

Gear and Tuning

Before we even touch a note, let's talk gear and tuning because, let's face it, having the right tools makes all the difference. For "Only Be Lonely," you'll want a guitar that can handle high gain and fast playing. Think something with a humbucker in the bridge position. Jeff Waters, the mastermind behind Annihilator, often uses guitars with powerful pickups to achieve his signature tone.

As for amplification, a high-gain amp is crucial. You're aiming for that tight, crunchy distortion that's synonymous with thrash metal. If you have an amp modeler or plugin, explore options like Mesa/Boogie or EVH 5150 emulations. These tend to get you in the ballpark of the Annihilator sound. Of course, experiment and tweak until you find what works best for your setup.

Tuning-wise, "Only Be Lonely" is in standard E tuning (E A D G B e). Make sure your guitar is properly intonated. A poorly intonated guitar will sound off, especially when playing complex chords and fast riffs up the neck. Use a reliable tuner and double-check each string to ensure accuracy. A little extra time spent on tuning will save you a lot of frustration later on. Plus, playing in tune is just more fun, right?

Understanding the Riff

Alright, let's dive headfirst into the heart of "Only Be Lonely"—the main riff. This riff is the backbone of the song, a relentless barrage of notes that immediately grabs your attention. It's a fantastic example of Annihilator's signature blend of technical precision and raw aggression.

The riff is built around a series of power chords and single-note runs, played at a blistering tempo. The key to nailing it is synchronization between your fretting hand and picking hand. Start slow, focusing on accuracy and clarity. Use a metronome to gradually increase your speed as you become more comfortable.

Pay close attention to the palm-muting technique used throughout the riff. Palm-muting gives the notes a tight, staccato feel, adding to the song's aggressive edge. Experiment with the amount of pressure you apply with your palm to achieve the desired level of chunkiness. Too much pressure and the notes will sound dead; too little and they'll lack definition. Finding that sweet spot is crucial.

Breaking Down the Solo

Now, let's talk about the solo because every Annihilator track has face-melting solos, and "Only Be Lonely" is no exception! This solo is a whirlwind of shredding, tapping, and whammy bar antics. It's a true test of your technical abilities, but with practice and patience, you can conquer it.

The solo is characterized by its fast alternate picking runs, wide intervallic leaps, and creative use of the whammy bar. Jeff Waters is known for his unconventional soloing style, often incorporating unusual scales and modes to create a sense of dissonance and tension.

Start by learning the solo in small sections. Focus on mastering each lick before moving on to the next. Pay attention to the fingerings and picking patterns used. Experiment with different approaches to find what works best for you.

Don't be afraid to slow down the tempo. Speed will come with practice. The most important thing is to develop a solid foundation of accuracy and control. Once you can play each lick cleanly at a slower tempo, gradually increase the speed until you reach the original tempo.

Practicing Techniques

To truly master "Only Be Lonely," you'll need to hone several key techniques. Let's break down some essential skills that will help you tackle this song and other challenging pieces.

Alternate Picking

Alternate picking is the foundation of many metal riffs and solos. It involves picking each note with alternating upstrokes and downstrokes. This technique allows for greater speed and precision compared to economy picking or sweep picking. Practice alternate picking exercises regularly to improve your hand synchronization and stamina.

Palm Muting

Palm muting is a technique used to dampen the strings with the palm of your picking hand, creating a tight, staccato sound. This is commonly used in metal to add aggression and definition to riffs. Experiment with different levels of pressure to achieve the desired amount of muting.

Sweep Picking

Sweep picking involves picking multiple notes in a single direction across several strings. This technique is often used to create fast, arpeggiated runs. While "Only Be Lonely" doesn't heavily rely on sweep picking, mastering this technique will expand your overall guitar skills and allow you to tackle more complex solos.

Tapping

Tapping involves using your picking hand fingers to strike the strings on the fretboard, creating notes without using your fretting hand. This technique is often used to create fast, legato runs and wide intervallic leaps. Practice tapping exercises regularly to improve your accuracy and coordination.

Putting It All Together

Okay, you've learned the riffs, dissected the solo, and honed your techniques. Now it's time to put it all together and play "Only Be Lonely" from start to finish. This is where the real challenge begins, but it's also where the real reward lies.

Start by playing along with the original recording. Pay attention to the nuances of the song, such as the dynamics, phrasing, and overall feel. Try to emulate Jeff Waters' playing style as closely as possible.

Record yourself playing and listen back critically. Identify areas where you can improve and focus on those areas in your practice sessions. Don't be discouraged by mistakes. Everyone makes them. The key is to learn from your mistakes and keep pushing forward.

Tips for Improvement

• Consistency is Key: Practice regularly, even if it's just for 30 minutes a day. Consistent practice is more effective than sporadic marathon sessions.
• Use a Metronome: A metronome is your best friend. It will help you develop a solid sense of timing and rhythm.
• Record Yourself: Recording yourself and listening back is a great way to identify areas for improvement.
• Learn From Others: Watch videos of other guitarists playing "Only Be Lonely." Pay attention to their techniques and try to incorporate them into your own playing.
• Be Patient: Learning a challenging song like "Only Be Lonely" takes time and effort. Don't get discouraged if you don't see results immediately. Just keep practicing and you will eventually get there.

Conclusion

So there you have it, guys! A comprehensive guide to learning "Only Be Lonely" by Annihilator. This song is a true test of your guitar skills, but with dedication and practice, you can master it and add it to your repertoire. Remember to start slow, focus on accuracy, and gradually increase your speed. And most importantly, have fun! Now go forth and shred! You got this!

Mastering Annihilator's "Only Be Lonely" on guitar requires patience, precision, and a love for shredding. This guitar lesson has provided a roadmap, but the journey is yours to take. Remember, the key is consistent practice and a willingness to learn from your mistakes. As you improve, you'll not only be able to play this challenging song but also develop the skills necessary to tackle other complex pieces. Keep shredding, and never stop pushing your limits!