So, there you are at the biggest jam session this side of Cleveland, and your licks are just not cutting it. Bored of the typical minor pentatonic and mixolydian licks, you want something different and spicy to throw over a hot dominant chord. Well there, pal, I’ve got just the lick for you: a brand new whole tone finger twister.
Before we talk about the lick itself, let’s talk about the whole tone scale and why this lick will work over a dominant chord. The whole tone scale is a 6 note equal interval augmented scale. Because it’s equal interval, you can essentially say the root of this scale will usually just depend on context, though the scale does For example, the whole tone scale starting on E is E-F#-G#-A#-B#-D-E, but if we were playing over a D7, we could essentially call this entire scale the D whole tone scale because the notes remain the same. With that in mind, there are really only 2 whole tone scales to consider, as each scale contains 6 notes and is exactly half of the 12 tone chromatic scale.
The whole tone scale when played over a dominant chord gives a very in-out sound that’s quite interesting when used correctly. The idea is similar to using a b5 in a blues context, but taken to a more extreme level. A dominant chord is spelled 1-3-p5-b7. The typical scale for this chord is mixolydian (1-2-3-p4-p5-6-b7). Whole tone, in comparison to mixolydian, gives a more exotic sound. Whole tone is spelled as such: 1-2-3-#4(out)-#5(out)-b7. The two “out” notes really shine over a dominant chord, and the equal interval nature of the scale gives a dreamy, almost alien feeling, especially when played fast.
Now for the lick itself, which is designed to be played over an E7 chord: The ascending pattern repeats in tri-tones up until the high E string. Try and play the lick using strict legato technique and only pick once per string at the most. This will give it a smooth and buttery sound that compliments the outside nature of the lick very nicely. Once on the high E string, ascend one position horizontally and then use the opposite hand to tap “Spock” style on the 20th and 22nd frets. Personally, I like using the middle and ring fingers of my right hand because I can get the timing more exact, but feel free to use your main tapping finger and slide instead of using 2 fingers. The slide, if you choose to use it, will give a very nice and interesting sound. Firmly tap in the 19th fret of the G string, and then let the left hand work its naughty magic until a slide down to the 9th fret. Once you’re there, give the note some stanky vibrato and enjoy the applause/adoration you’re probably now receiving.
One last note: change the lick as much as you like. Once the lick is under your fingers AS WRITTEN, rip it to shreds. Shorten it, lengthen it, add more tapping, try picking it, etc. Do anything you like. You’ll be able to create countless licks just from the ideas presented here. Happy practicing!
Lick and Video
And here’s a video reference for you!
