The Diminished Guitar Lick You NEED For Mind-Bending Shred

Sometimes, when writing a solo, it can feel like you're missing something that's got some dazzle to it. Something weird, ya know? A mind-bending sequence that'll either piece two other parts of the solo together or wrap it up with something unique. You may also be searching for a musical practice exercise that targets legato, slides, and sweep picking in a fun and effective way. Lucky for you, I've got just what the doctor ordered. Grab your axe, take a seat, and we'll dive into how to play a truly face-melting guitar lick.

The Lick

Refer to the tab below to learn how to play this gnarly diminished lick.

The Pattern

Three main positions are used along the fretboard with this lick. In each position, the same exact shape is played. A symmetrical pattern begins the phrase on the seventh position and ends with a slide up to a half note on the 19th fret of the high E string. Since this is a diminished lick, the distance between each shape is exactly the same, with each position being played 3 frets (or a minor 3rd interval) apart.

Technique Considerations

Not only is this lick musically chaotic, but it also serves as a great exercise for developing technique.  Here are some of the techniques to be mindful of when looking at the transcription:

• Legato: This technique is used immediately with pull-offs.
• Sweep picking: Notes are played across consecutive strings in a continuous, raking fashion.  Use the same picking direction until you've reached the highest string in the phrase.
• Slides: Glide into a note by sliding along the string from the previous note that was played.
• Vibrato: Add character to the last note by flavorfully bending it as it rings out for the half-step duration in this lick.

Conclusion

Repetition is key if you wanna lock this shred lick down. Once you get the hang of the shape and sequence of the first position, it'll be easier to finish the lick. Just keep in mind that since this is a diminished pattern, each ascending position is 3 frets away from the previous one. Start slowly and use a metronome to help with rhythm and timing. Stick in and stay consistent with practicing this and before you know it, you'll have this epic mind-bending lick under your belt.

Watch the full lesson here: The Diminished Guitar Lick You NEED For Mind-Bending Shred