TOP THREE LICKS

Lick 1 [Bars 22-23] G6/9 R&B fill

The G6/9 chord sounds great here and Allen includes a classic R&B style fill. The fill in bar 23 features a sliding perfect 4th interval, which is a classic soul, funk and R&B device for filling out the sound without over-cluttering.

Lick 2 [Bars 27-28] Semiquaver syncopation

Allen opens his solo with some ear-grabbing rhythmic syncopation. Syncopation means playing off the beat and using this concept adds sophistication. If you are more used to playing music styles that feature rhythms that fall on the beat, this one may take some getting used to.

Lick 3 [Bar 37] Descending Dorian line

Here Allen uses the semiquaver (16th-note) rhythmic subdivision and descends the E Dorian mode. The grouping of the notes creates a catchy motif and the idea is finished off with a tasty trill.