Hi!
Could anybody give me some guide on how to develop string muting?
Specifically, the intro to this song from 10-26 second mark:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6qbBEAlU9GA&feature=related

I can do two string harmony but only if I target that two strings.
However, it loses the funk feel and the "edge and scratchy sound" the muted strings bring to it.

An audio recording can be heard here from the 19 sec mk:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HBIF0fCi4_g

Thanks in advance!

This type of funky muting comes more from the left hand than the right.

I would start off with simple patterns of 8th notes. 1 an 2 an 3 an 4 an.

Pick a chord. Strum the chord on the 1 2 3 4 but lift your fingers up slightly to mute the strings on the "an."

You want to be able to keep your pick hand moving in time to a rhythm, and get most of the desired effect from lifting up and pressing down with the fretboard hand.

Start slow. Play to a drum track or a metronome. Very slow. 1 an 2 an 3 an 4 an. Then maybe 16ths 1 ee an uh 2 ee an uh etc etc etc

Very slow. Lift up the fretting hand very slightly to mute

It will come along in time.

-U

Thanks Ursin I'll try it.
I can do it if I stay in a single position.
I keep ringing the other strings when I shift finger positions or move to a different fret.

I hope it comes in time before my usually short patience goes.

Slow it down and try to isolate where the ringing is coming from. Usually with this type of rhythmic percussive strumming, the pick hand is moving freely but there are other more sophisticated muting methods using both hands in tandem (see: Al di Meola).

I would slow it down REAL slow and see where the problems are and then work from there.

Take it slow and move between 2 chords. Then try and add others. Don't try and tackle too much at once or it will (usually) sound like a mess.

Patience and practice are key.

Hang in there.

-U

tnk U

2 yrs?!?
Oh that's something to push my patience for sure!
Now I dont have to be frustrated if I didn't get it within a year and a half.
Thanks Pebber.

out of topic:
Do you know a guitar tech/luthier around your area?
I didn't like Henry's job on my guitar (yes, the one from covina). Seemed like he didn't spent some time with it.
Obviously, I dont prefer those who prefers A-list guitarists only, cause Im not one. :(

the Fret House in Covina.

maybe the oldies talked about you.

If you know someone with a fairly consistent result on guitar repairs (setup, electronics) in the area, please let me know.
thanks again!