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This book is a very well organized presentation of all the essential rhythm and lead techniques needed to gain a firm foothold on the Blues. While not for total beginners (skill in string bending, scale playing, and chord playing are presumed), it does begin at a very basic point as far as Blues is concerned. Beginning with and open E blues scale and solo, "Blues You Can Use" takes you systematically through the 5 basic Pentatonic Scales. Most importantly, the book gives a solo to learn that demonstrates the use of that scale. Eventually, you are shown how to put all the scale patterns together on the neck, and so, you achieve a primary goal of the improvising blues guitarist: the ability to solo in a given key all over the neck. You will also learn a variety of shuffle patterns and other rhythms, so that you can learn the background to the solos you will play. The best thing to do is to learn the rhythm AND the lead to a solo. Then, record the rhythm and practice the solo to it. Theory is included along the way, as well as a good sampling of various blues styles. Double notes, Major Pentatonics, Minor Blues are also introduced. This book serves as a good "doorway" to the study of the blues. It will give you a foundation from which to branch out, study, and understand this appealing and rewarding style of guitar. |
