Tornado of Souls Guitar Solo Lesson - Megadeth

Introduction

This tutorial provides a detailed, step-by-step guide on how to play the iconic guitar solo from "Tornado of Souls" by Megadeth. This lesson is designed for intermediate to advanced guitar players looking to master this complex piece, featuring various techniques such as bends, arpeggios, and sweeps.

Step 1: Understand the Structure of the Solo

• Familiarize yourself with the overall structure of the solo.
• The solo consists of several phrases, each containing unique techniques.
• Listen to the original recording for timing and expression.

Step 2: Begin with the First Phrase

• Start the solo at the third fret on the G string.
• Perform a big bend followed by a release, then a slow half-step bend.
• Ascend using the G string: play the 4th fret, then lightly mute the 7th fret on the D string.

Detailed Breakdown of the First Phrase

1. 3rd fret on G string: Big bend and release.
2. 4th fret on G string: Ascend to 7th fret, lightly mute D string at 7th fret.
3. Continue ascending:
   • 6th fret on G, then back to 7th fret on D.
   • Slide from 9th to 11th fret on G, pull off to 9th fret.
4. Quick bend and release: 9th fret (G string) followed by a slide down to 7th fret.

Step 3: Move to the Next Phrase

• Shift to the 7th fret on the G string.
• Follow with a hammer-on from 6th to 7th fret, then to 9th on the D string.

Detailed Breakdown of the Second Phrase

1. 7th fret on G string: Pick, then hammer from 6 to 7.
2. 9th fret on D string: Followed by 7th and 9th fret on D.
3. Grab 9 with index finger: Prepare for the next lick.

Step 4: Master the Arpeggio Section

• Start at the 19th fret and descend through a series of arpeggios.
• Focus on technique: use sweeping and string skipping.

Detailed Breakdown of the Arpeggio

1. 19th fret on high E: Pick, then perform a trill between 15 and 19.
2. Descend: 18th fret on G, 16th on D, and back up.
3. Continue the pattern: Remember to slide and pull off properly to maintain fluidity.

Step 5: Incorporate the Fast Picking Section

• This section consists of rapid repeated patterns.
• Use alternate picking or mini sweeps to achieve speed.

Detailed Breakdown of the Fast Picking

1. Pull off from 14 to 10 on high E: Followed by 12 on B string.
2. Repeat the pattern: Ensure to accentuate the top note for clarity.

Step 6: Approach the Crazy Licks

• These are improvisational and vary from performance to performance.
• Focus on the key notes, and don’t stress over exact repetitions.

Detailed Breakdown of the Crazy Licks

1. Slide into 18th fret on B: Pull off to 19 on G.
2. Fast transitions: Between 19 and 22 on B and high E strings.
3. Create your variations: Feel free to experiment while staying within the scale.

Conclusion

Congratulations on learning the "Tornado of Souls" solo! Focus on practicing each section phrase-by-phrase for mastery. Remember to utilize techniques like bending, sweeping, and rapid picking to enhance your playing. For further improvement, consider recording yourself to track progress and identify areas for refinement. Enjoy playing, and keep pushing your guitar skills!