Exploring unusual scales is a fantastic way to infuse creativity and unique flavors into your guitar solos. These scales can add tension, mystery, and distinctive colors to your music. Here are some unusual scales you can experiment with to create creative and captivating guitar solos:
1. Harmonic Minor Scale:
- The harmonic minor scale is a captivating choice, often used in jazz and classical music. It features a raised seventh degree, creating a noticeable tension between the major sixth and the augmented seventh. Example in A: A-B-C-D-E-F-G#.
2. Phrygian Dominant Scale:
- The Phrygian dominant scale is characterized by its exotic and mysterious sound. It’s commonly used in various styles, including Middle Eastern and metal music. Example in E: E-F-G#-A-B-D.
3. Whole-Tone Scale:
- The whole-tone scale consists entirely of whole steps, resulting in a symmetrical and dreamy sound. It’s often used to create an otherworldly atmosphere. Example in C: C-D-E-F#-G#-A#.
4. Hungarian Minor Scale:
- The Hungarian minor scale has a distinct Eastern European flavor, often associated with Hungarian and Gypsy music. It features a raised fourth and seventh degree. Example in D: D-E-F#-G#-A-Bb-C.
5. Enigmatic Scale:
- The enigmatic scale is known for its mysterious and unsettling qualities. It contains all the non-repeated notes within an octave. Example in C: C-D#-E-F#-G#-A#-B.
6. Lydian Augmented Scale:
- The Lydian augmented scale combines the Lydian mode with a raised fifth degree, creating a sense of openness and brightness. Example in F: F-G-A-B-C#-D-E.
7. Bebop Scale:
- The bebop scale adds an extra passing tone (usually a chromatic note) to a standard scale, often used in jazz improvisation. Example in G: G-A-B-C-D-E-F-F#.
8. Neapolitan Minor Scale:
- The Neapolitan minor scale features a flattened second degree, creating a distinctive and dramatic sound. Example in A: A-Bb-C#-D-E-F-G.
9. Double Harmonic Scale:
- The double harmonic scale has a unique Eastern European and Middle Eastern sound, often used in traditional music. Example in E: E-F-G#-A-B-C-D#.
Remember that the key to incorporating unusual scales effectively is practice and experimentation. As you become more familiar with these scales, you’ll discover their unique sonic qualities and find ways to integrate them seamlessly into your guitar solos, adding depth and originality to your musical expression.
