I have just discovered how to play “Notion” by The Rare Occasions, one of my top songs, on the guitar. The guitar riff is highly addictive and always remains in my mind. In this article, I will lead you through the steps of mastering and performing this song on the guitar, and also provide some personal advice and insights.
Getting Started
Before we dive into the song, make sure you have a working knowledge of basic guitar chords and strumming techniques. It’s also helpful to have a capo, as “Notion” is played using open chords with a capo on the 2nd fret. If you’re new to using a capo, don’t worry – it’s a simple device that helps you change the pitch of the guitar without changing the chord shapes.
Now, let’s talk about the main chords used in “Notion.” The song primarily revolves around four chords: G, D, Em, and C. If you’re not familiar with these chords, it’s worth taking the time to practice them individually before attempting to play the song.
The Verse
The verse of “Notion” is characterized by a catchy palm-muted guitar riff that repeats throughout. To recreate this riff, place your ring finger on the 3rd fret of the low E string (G note) and use your index finger to palm-mute the strings slightly. Strum the muted strings twice, then remove your ring finger and strum the low E string open. Next, place your index finger on the 2nd fret of the A string (B note) and strum it open. Repeat this pattern for the entire verse.
In addition to the palm-muted riff, you’ll play the chords G, D, and Em in the verse. Strum each chord for four beats, transitioning smoothly between them. Pay attention to the rhythm and try to match the feel of the original recording.
The Chorus
The chorus introduces the chord C, which adds a nice contrast to the song. Start by strumming the C chord for two beats, then switch to G for two beats. Repeat this pattern twice, and then strum D for four beats. The chorus has a more open and energetic sound compared to the verse, so don’t be afraid to strum the chords with more vigor.
The Bridge
The bridge of “Notion” features a simple chord progression with some palm-muted strums in between. It starts with G for four beats, followed by Em for four beats. Repeat this progression twice, and then switch to D for four beats. After the D chord, go back to the verse riff for the final part of the bridge. Pay close attention to the dynamics of the song – the bridge should have a softer and more introspective feel compared to the rest of the song.
Conclusion
Learning to play “Notion” by The Rare Occasions on the guitar can be a challenging yet rewarding experience. By mastering the palm-muted riff, familiarizing yourself with the chord progressions, and paying attention to the dynamics of the song, you’ll be able to capture the essence of this indie rock gem. So grab your guitar, put on a capo, and start strumming along to the infectious rhythms of “Notion”!