Analysis of the structure and solo technique of Megadeth's 'Tornado of Souls': A Study of Popular Guitar Composition and Technique

Abstract

The song Tornado of Souls by Megadeth has a solo that is considered one of the best metal guitar solos. With its complex technique and unique style, this article aims to 1) analyze the concept of composing the solo and 2) analyze the popular guitar playing techniques used in the solo. From the analysis of the concept of composing the solo, it was found that the song uses a 4/4 time in the B minor scale. It uses chords, scales, and modes, such as the B Minor arpeggio with the addition of the 6th (G) and 9th (C#) notes, as well as the use of B Dorian mode. In addition, the selection of notes with a Japanese folk song feel makes the song flow smoothly and has interesting sound colors. In terms of guitar playing techniques, Marty Friedman's unique string-pushing technique is used, in which the string is pushed halfway before pushing it again to extend the sound, creating a new tone. The combination of effective playing techniques such as alternating plucking, economical plucking, string sweeping, string pushing, string crossing, and sliding make the solo complex and challenging to perform. It stands out for its use of notes that have a touch of Japanese folk music and Marty Friedman's unique string-pushing technique.