So, you want to learn how to djent, huh? That's awesome! Djent, with its chugging riffs and complex rhythms, has become a major force in the metal world. It's not just a sound; it's a whole vibe. But before we dive into the nitty-gritty of playing djent, let's break down what it actually is.
What Exactly Is Djent?
Djent, at its core, is an onomatopoeic term that mimics the sound of a palm-muted, high-gain guitar riff. Think of that chunky, percussive "djent" sound, and you're on the right track. The term was popularized by the Swedish progressive metal band Meshuggah, who are often credited as the pioneers of the genre. But djent isn't just about the sound itself; it's also about the musical style that has evolved around it. We're talking about complex polyrhythms, syncopation, and a heavy emphasis on technical proficiency. Djent bands often use extended-range guitars, typically 7 or 8 strings, to achieve those super-low, gut-punching riffs. These lower tunings allow for a wider range of notes and the ability to create those signature djent grooves.
But here's the thing, guys: djent isn't just one specific thing. It's more of a spectrum, encompassing a range of bands and styles that share a similar sonic and rhythmic approach. You've got bands like Periphery, TesseracT, and Animals as Leaders, all pushing the boundaries of djent in their own unique ways. Each of these bands brings something different to the table, whether it's soaring clean vocals, intricate instrumental passages, or mind-bending polyrhythms. So, when we talk about djent, we're really talking about a broad and evolving musical landscape. It's a genre that's constantly being redefined by the bands who play it, which is part of what makes it so exciting. We can all agree that djent is definitely a force to be reckoned with in the world of modern metal.
Essential Elements of Djent
Okay, so now that we've got a handle on what djent is, let's break down the key elements that make it tick. There are a few crucial ingredients that go into creating that signature djent sound, and mastering these elements is essential if you want to get your djent on. First and foremost, we've got to talk about the riffs. Djent riffs are the backbone of the genre, and they're typically characterized by their chunky, syncopated rhythms and heavy palm-muting. The goal is to create a percussive, almost rhythmic feel with the guitar, where each note hits with impact and precision.
Think about the way Meshuggah riffs – it's like a machine gun firing in perfect time. That's the kind of precision we're aiming for. Polyrhythms are another essential ingredient in the djent recipe. A polyrhythm is when you have two or more different rhythms happening simultaneously. This creates a sense of rhythmic complexity and tension that's a hallmark of djent. For example, you might have a guitar riff playing in 4/4 time while the drums are playing in 7/8. This creates a disorienting, yet incredibly cool effect that's sure to get heads banging. Djent also relies heavily on syncopation, which is when you emphasize the off-beats or weaker parts of the rhythm. This gives the music a sense of groove and bounce, even with all the technical complexity going on. Think of it as the secret sauce that makes djent riffs so addictive. It's what makes you want to nod your head and move your feet, even when you're trying to figure out the time signature. Another key element is extended-range guitars. As I mentioned earlier, most djent bands use 7 or 8-string guitars to achieve those super-low tunings. These lower tunings allow for a massive, crushing sound that's perfect for djent riffs. If you're serious about playing djent, you'll probably want to invest in an extended-range guitar at some point.
Beyond the technical aspects, djent is also about a certain aesthetic. It's about creating a sound that's both brutal and precise, technical and groove-oriented. It's a delicate balance, but when it's done right, it's pure magic.
Gear Up for Djent
Alright, gearheads, let's talk about the tools of the trade. If you want to truly capture that djent sound, you're going to need the right equipment. While skill and technique are paramount, having the right gear can definitely help you get there faster. The most crucial piece of gear for djent is, without a doubt, the extended-range guitar. As we've discussed, the low tunings are essential for those crushing riffs, and you're simply not going to get there with a standard 6-string. 7-string guitars are a common starting point for djent players, but many musicians opt for 8-string guitars to access even lower registers. Brands like Ibanez, Schecter, and ESP offer a wide range of extended-range guitars that are popular among djent players.
When choosing a guitar, pay attention to the scale length. A longer scale length (26.5" or 27", for example) will provide better string tension and clarity in those low tunings. The pickups you choose are also crucial. High-output humbucker pickups are the standard for djent, as they provide the aggressive, articulate tone that the genre demands. Look for pickups that are designed for high-gain applications, such as those from Bare Knuckle Pickups, DiMarzio, or Seymour Duncan. Next up, we need to talk about amplifiers. Djent requires an amp that can handle massive gain while still maintaining clarity and definition. Many djent guitarists prefer high-gain tube amps from brands like Mesa/Boogie, Peavey, and EVH. These amps provide the power and headroom needed for those crushing djent riffs. However, tube amps can be quite expensive and require regular maintenance.
For a more affordable and low-maintenance option, consider a modeling amplifier or amp simulator. These devices can digitally recreate the sounds of classic tube amps, and many of them do a fantastic job. Kemper Profiler, Fractal Audio Axe-Fx, and Line 6 Helix are popular choices among djent players who want a wide range of tones in a single unit. Don't forget about the importance of a good noise gate. With all that high gain, you're going to get some serious noise, especially when you're not playing. A noise gate will help to keep things tight and controlled, eliminating unwanted hum and hiss. Pedals from ISP Technologies and MXR are popular choices. Finally, experiment with different distortion and overdrive pedals to fine-tune your tone. A transparent overdrive can be used to boost your amp's gain without drastically changing its character, while a more aggressive distortion pedal can add extra bite and sustain.
Ultimately, the best gear for djent is the gear that works best for you. Don't be afraid to experiment and try out different combinations until you find the sound you're looking for.
Djent Techniques: The How-To
Okay, so you've got the gear, and you know the theory. Now it's time to get down to the nitty-gritty of playing djent. This is where the rubber meets the road, guys, and where you'll really start to develop your own djent chops. The foundation of djent playing is palm-muting. This technique involves resting the edge of your picking hand on the strings near the bridge, which creates that chunky, percussive sound that's so characteristic of the genre. The key to good palm-muting is finding the right amount of pressure. You want to mute the strings enough to get that chugging sound, but not so much that you kill the notes completely. Experiment with different levels of pressure until you find the sweet spot.
Your picking technique is also crucial. Most djent players use alternate picking, which means picking down and up on consecutive notes. This technique allows for speed and precision, which are essential for those complex djent riffs. Focus on keeping your picking hand relaxed and fluid. Tension is the enemy of speed, so try to avoid gripping the pick too tightly or tensing up your forearm. Practice slowly at first, focusing on accuracy and consistency. As you get more comfortable, you can gradually increase your speed. Syncopation is another key element of djent playing. As we discussed earlier, syncopation involves emphasizing the off-beats or weaker parts of the rhythm. This gives the music a sense of groove and bounce. To practice syncopation, try playing simple riffs with different rhythmic patterns. Experiment with accenting different notes and see how it changes the feel of the riff. Don't be afraid to get creative and try things that are outside of your comfort zone. One of the hallmarks of djent is its use of unconventional rhythms, so the more you experiment, the better you'll become at incorporating syncopation into your playing.
Polyrhythms, as we've established, are a big part of the djent sound, but they can also be incredibly challenging to play. The key to mastering polyrhythms is to break them down into smaller, more manageable parts. Start by practicing the individual rhythms separately, and then gradually try to combine them. Use a metronome to help you keep track of the different time signatures. You can also try using visual aids, such as writing out the rhythms on paper or using a drum machine to create a backing track. Remember, polyrhythms are all about creating a sense of tension and release. Once you've mastered the basic techniques, start experimenting with incorporating them into your own riffs and songs. That's where the real fun begins! Finally, don't neglect your fretboard knowledge. Djent often involves playing in unusual keys and scales, so it's important to have a solid understanding of the fretboard. Learn your scales and arpeggios, and experiment with different fingerings. The more you know about the fretboard, the easier it will be to come up with creative and interesting djent riffs.
Learning from the Djent Masters
To truly master djent, you've got to learn from the best. There are a ton of amazing djent guitarists out there, each with their own unique style and approach. Immersing yourself in their music and studying their techniques is one of the best ways to improve your own playing. Meshuggah, as we've discussed, are the founding fathers of djent, and they're a great place to start. Guitarists Mårten Hagström and Fredrik Thordendal are masters of complex polyrhythms and syncopated riffs, and their playing is instantly recognizable. Spend some time listening to their albums "Nothing" and "obZen", and try to transcribe some of their riffs.
Pay attention to their palm-muting technique, their picking patterns, and their use of extended-range guitars. Periphery is another essential djent band to check out. Guitarists Misha Mansoor, Jake Bowen, and Mark Holcomb are all incredibly talented players, and their band's music is a perfect blend of technicality, melody, and groove. Their album "Periphery IV: Hail Stan" is a great example of their modern djent sound. Mansoor is known for his innovative use of 7 and 8-string guitars, as well as his sophisticated understanding of music theory. Bowen is a master of atmospheric textures and unusual chord voicings, while Holcomb is a shredding machine with a knack for writing catchy riffs. TesseracT is another band that's pushing the boundaries of djent. Guitarist James Monteith is a master of atmospheric soundscapes and intricate riffs. Their album "Polaris" is a great example of their progressive and experimental approach to djent. Monteith's playing is characterized by his use of delay and reverb effects, as well as his unique sense of melody. Animals as Leaders is an instrumental djent band that's known for its virtuosity and technical complexity. Guitarist Tosin Abasi is a true innovator, and his playing is unlike anything else in the genre. He's known for his use of 8-string guitars, his fingerstyle technique, and his unconventional sense of harmony.
Studying the playing of these djent masters is not just about copying their licks and riffs. It's about understanding their musical approach, their technical skills, and their creative vision. Pay attention to the nuances in their playing, and try to incorporate those elements into your own style. Remember, the goal is not to become a clone of your favorite guitarist, but to develop your own unique voice within the djent genre.
Practice Makes Perfect (and Djent)
Okay, guys, let's be real. There's no magic bullet for learning how to djent. It takes time, effort, and a whole lot of practice. But if you're willing to put in the work, you can absolutely master this awesome style of playing. The key to effective practice is to be consistent and focused. Set aside some time each day to work on your djent chops, even if it's just for 30 minutes. Regular practice is much more effective than sporadic marathon sessions. When you practice, focus on specific skills and techniques. Don't just noodle around aimlessly.
Choose a particular riff, scale, or technique that you want to improve, and work on it until you've got it down. Use a metronome to help you keep time and develop your rhythmic accuracy. Start slowly, and gradually increase the tempo as you get more comfortable. It's better to play something perfectly at a slow tempo than to play it sloppily at a fast tempo. Record yourself playing, and listen back critically. This is a great way to identify areas where you need to improve. Pay attention to your timing, your tone, and your overall feel. Are you playing the riff correctly? Is your palm-muting consistent? Are you capturing the right djent vibe? Don't be afraid to experiment with different techniques and approaches. Try playing riffs in different keys, or using different fingerings. The more you experiment, the more you'll learn about the fretboard and the more creative you'll become as a player.
Remember, patience is key. Learning how to djent takes time, so don't get discouraged if you don't sound like Meshuggah overnight. Just keep practicing, keep learning, and keep pushing yourself. And most importantly, have fun! Djent is a challenging but incredibly rewarding style of music to play. So, crank up your amp, grab your extended-range guitar, and get ready to djent! With dedication and practice, you'll be laying down those chunky riffs and complex rhythms in no time. Now get out there and make some noise, guys! And remember, the djent is strong with you.