scales

TRACKS 35-36

Mixolydian scale

Scale notes (in D):D E F# GA B C b7 Intervals: 123456 When to use it: For a relaxed, but generally major key vibe. Over a I-IV-V progression (such as G-C-D) where the V chord is the root (D-C-G). We’ve already seen one Mixolydian shape in our lesson. No surprises there – it is a versatile scale. Its sonic signature is generally relaxed – not as bright as the major scale, less moody than any minor scale yet still leftfield enough for progressive and psychedelic lines. Played over a D-C-G progression you have a scale that works better than a standard D major scale line would.

Major scale in 6ths

Scale notes (in G):G A B C D E F# Intervals: 1234567 When to use it: For sweet, soulful melodies with a relaxed vibe. You can’t really play these two-note shapes quickly! Using the first and third strings, this arrangement of the G major scale uses pairs of notes separated by six steps in the scale. Play with a fairly clean sound and you’ll quickly be in soul, folk and Americana territory. Notice some of the notes are on the same fret, but some are ‘staggered’ a fret apart – this is so that all the notes come from the same scale.