Drop 2 1st inversion stretch

Badge · #1 07-04-2011, 08:34 AM

I am memorizing all drop 2s over the string sets. It's all good but I can't get my chops around the first inversion middle string set - the M7 particularly on the lower end of the fretboard seems unworkable. Is there a tip anyone can give me? Do you substitute 2 for the root? Or forget about this inversion set all together? Thank you

FatJeff · #2 07-04-2011, 08:58 AM

Keep working it...it will come. Finger flexibility takes time. You may find it easier to slip into the shape when your fingers are already down on that string set (do a V-I into the shape and you'll see what I mean). Also, for now, try substituting the 9th for the root (move the finger on the root up 2 frets)...same basic sound, just a little prettier and more ornamented...easier to finger...and does that new shape remind you of anything??

Badge · #3 07-04-2011, 06:35 PM

Thanks fj. Yes m7! Can you sub the 9 for R with the inverted m7, m7b5 and Dom 7 too? I'll keep working on the stretch!

FatJeff · #4 07-04-2011, 08:21 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Badge

Thanks fj. Yes m7! Can you sub the 9 for R with the inverted m7, m7b5 and Dom 7 too? I'll keep working on the stretch!

The min9 and dom9, yes. The m7b5, that's debatable. Let your ear be the guide. I don't like the way the natural 9 sounds on the m7b5, probably because that makes a b9 interval above the implied Maj7 (in other words, if using Bm7b5, which is a half step below the diatonic tonic chord Cmaj7, putting a natural 9 on the m7b5 introduces a C#, which doesn't sound good against the C to me).