Play better rhythm: Adding 7ths and 9ths

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Ex 3: Finally a classic example of how Noel Gallagher would strum chords by keeping the same notes fretted on the top two strings. Without taking anything away from his songwriting skills, it's this simplistic 'guitar-ism' that creates the seemingly sophisticated chord names shown in the music.(Image credit: Mike Goodman)

Tab: Example 3

In our songwriting, we all search for new chord sequences that are different to those commonly used.

The chances are, however, that if you find a 'new' chord sequence that rocks your world, it's probably been used before.

Alternatively, players such as Kelly Jones of the Stereophonics and Noel Gallagher of Oasis approach things from a slightly different angle, often taking familiar chord sequences but breathing new life into them by adding 7ths and 9ths. If you've never tried (or understood) these chord types before, try out the following examples and see if you've a clearer viewpoint on them - it may inspire a new composition.

Gear

Both Kelly Jones and Noel Gallagher tend to use guitars with humbuckers to give even their clean sound an edge - especially when coupled with a loud amp that drives the power amp valves, not the preamp valves, hard. We also used a humbucker-equipped guitar and a loud amp.

Click 'see all pictures' in the picture box for full-sized tab.

Audio - Full track