Blues Phrasing Pt. 2

In this masterclass, Jack Ruch delves into the nuances of playing minor blues guitar, expanding on previous discussions about blues phrasing. He introduces a new backing track with a different groove, aiming to explore minor blues in detail. Jack emphasizes the rhythmic aspects of blues phrasing and how the groove and tempo significantly influence one's phrasing choices. He mentions the importance of understanding the groove to dictate phrasing, highlighting the difference between a shuffle and a straight feel, and uses "The Thrill is Gone" as a reference point for the session's groove. The masterclass begins with an exploration of B minor and revisits some common phrasing techniques discussed in previous lessons, with a promise to introduce new harmonic concepts.

Throughout the video, Jack focuses on pushing the harmonic boundaries within blues progression, linking blues closely with jazz and discussing how to innovate within simple chord progressions. He explains the significance of chord tones over scales, demonstrating how understanding intervals and arpeggio shapes can enhance improvisation. Jack skillfully demonstrates playing over a minor blues progression in B minor, using a blend of minor pentatonic scales, chord tones, and arpeggios. He provides practical examples of how to apply these concepts over different parts of the progression, emphasizing the importance of resolution and tension in creating impactful phrases.

As the masterclass progresses, Jack introduces the concept of using diminished scales and arpeggios to create tension and resolution, particularly over dominant chords leading back to the tonic. He explains how these concepts can be superimposed on chord progressions to enrich one's playing with more sophisticated sounds. Jack breaks down the theory behind these techniques, offering clear examples and resolving patterns that highlight the utility of diminished arpeggios in improvisation. The masterclass concludes with Jack encouraging viewers to practice simple phrasing with intent, using backing tracks to hone their skills, and promising to delve deeper into these advanced concepts in future sessions.

Transcript Summary

  • Introduction and Minor Blues Concept (00:00:03 - 00:02:13)
    • Jack welcomes viewers and announces the lesson's focus on minor blues, expanding from previous discussions on blues phrasing.
    • He introduces a new backing track with a different feel to illustrate minor blues concepts.
    • Jack highlights the importance of groove and tempo in phrasing, promising to blend in harmonic ideas to push the boundaries of simple chord progressions.
  • Guitar Playing Demonstration (00:02:13 - 00:07:17)
    • Jack plays over a backing track in B minor, demonstrating simple phrasing while incorporating minor blues concepts.
    • He emphasizes rhythmic pickups, the use of space, and playing with intent to make phrases more impactful.
    • Throughout, Jack showcases how to build motifs and themes within a blues solo.
  • Exploring Chord Tones and Arpeggios (00:07:17 - 00:15:12)
    • Jack discusses the significance of understanding chord tones and arpeggios over scales for improvisation.
    • He provides examples of how to locate and utilize these tones across the fretboard to enhance soloing.
    • Jack demonstrates how to connect different positions using chord tones, offering a method to navigate the guitar neck more freely.
  • Diminished Arpeggios and Their Application (00:15:12 - 00:23:45)
    • Introduction to diminished seventh arpeggios and their symmetrical nature, providing flexibility across the fretboard.
    • Jack explains how these arpeggios can create tension and resolve effectively in minor blues progressions.
    • He demonstrates practical applications of diminished arpeggios to transition between chords, emphasizing their use over dominant chords.
  • Advanced Harmonic Concepts (00:23:45 - 00:33:25)
    • Jack delves deeper into harmonic minor and melodic minor scales, illustrating their relevance to minor blues.
    • He explains the relationship between these scales, diminished arpeggios, and their application over dominant chords.
    • Jack provides examples of using these concepts to create more complex and interesting solos.
  • Recap and Final Thoughts (00:33:25 - 00:59:51)
    • Jack recaps the lesson, stressing the importance of chord tones, phrasing, and playing with intent.
    • He encourages viewers to practice with backing tracks and apply the discussed concepts to develop their soloing skills.
    • Jack concludes the lesson by thanking viewers for participating and hints at further exploration of these topics in future sessions.