Understanding "New Slang"
"New Slang" is often credited with helping to define the early 2000s indie rock sound. Written by James Mercer, the song reflects themes of disillusionment and longing, wrapped in a catchy pop melody. The song gained widespread recognition after its inclusion in the film Garden State, further solidifying its place in popular culture.
The Song's Structure
The structure of "New Slang" is relatively simple, making it accessible for beginner guitarists while still being challenging enough to engage more experienced players. The song follows a standard verse-chorus format, which allows the listener to easily connect with its melodic hooks.
Lyrical Themes
The lyrics of "New Slang" resonate with many listeners, touching on feelings of uncertainty and the search for meaning. Phrases like "Gold teeth and a curse for this town were all in my mouth" evoke vivid imagery and emotions, drawing listeners into the narrative. The combination of lyrical depth and catchy instrumentation is part of what has kept "New Slang" relevant over the years.
Chords Used in "New Slang"
The foundation of "New Slang" lies in its unique chord progression. The song features a combination of open chords and barre chords, which create a distinctive sound. The primary chords used in the song are:
- C
- G
- Am
- F
Chord Progression Breakdown
The song's chord progression can be broken down into sections, allowing for easier practice. Here’s a simple breakdown:
1. Verse:
- C - G - Am - F
- Repeat this progression for the duration of the verses.
2. Chorus:
- C - G - Am - F
- The chorus uses the same progression, making it easier to memorize.
Capo Placement
To play "New Slang" in the original key, it is recommended to use a capo on the second fret. This adjustment raises the pitch of the chords, allowing you to play along with the recording while still using simple chord shapes.
How to Play "New Slang" on Guitar
Playing "New Slang" is an enjoyable experience, and with a bit of practice, guitarists of all levels can master it. Here are step-by-step tips for playing the song effectively.
Step 1: Tune Your Guitar
Before diving into the song, ensure your guitar is properly tuned to standard tuning (E A D G B e). An out-of-tune guitar can detract from the overall sound and make it more challenging to play along with the recording.
Step 2: Familiarize Yourself with the Chords
Spend some time getting comfortable with the chords used in the song. Here are the finger placements for each chord:
- C Major:
- Index finger on the 1st fret of the B string (2nd string)
- Middle finger on the 2nd fret of the D string (4th string)
- Ring finger on the 3rd fret of the A string (5th string)
- G Major:
- Middle finger on the 3rd fret of the E string (6th string)
- Index finger on the 2nd fret of the A string (5th string)
- Ring finger on the 3rd fret of the B string (2nd string)
- Pinky finger on the 3rd fret of the e string (1st string)
- A Minor:
- Index finger on the 1st fret of the B string (2nd string)
- Middle finger on the 2nd fret of the D string (4th string)
- Ring finger on the 2nd fret of the G string (3rd string)
- F Major:
- This chord can be challenging for beginners as it is often played as a barre chord.
- To play a barre F, use your index finger to press down all the strings on the 1st fret, while using your other fingers to form an E major shape.
Step 3: Practice the Progression
Once you are comfortable with the chords, practice transitioning between them. Start slowly, focusing on clean transitions. Use a metronome to help maintain a steady tempo as you become more confident in your chord changes.
Step 4: Add Strumming Patterns
The strumming pattern can greatly influence the feel of the song. A common strumming pattern for "New Slang" is:
- Down, Down-Up, Up-Down-Up
Experiment with this pattern, and feel free to modify it to suit your playing style. The goal is to capture the song's laid-back yet rhythmic essence.
Tips for Enhancing Your Performance
Once you’ve mastered the chords and strumming patterns, consider these tips to enhance your performance of "New Slang":
- Listen to the Original Track: Familiarize yourself with the nuances of the song by listening to the original recording. Pay attention to the dynamics and vocal delivery.
- Play Along: Try playing along with the song. This will help you get a feel for the timing and rhythm, making it easier to integrate your playing with the music.
- Experiment with Fingerpicking: If you feel comfortable, try fingerpicking the chords instead of strumming. This technique can add a delicate touch to your performance and give it a unique flavor.
- Record Yourself: Recording your practice sessions can provide valuable feedback. Listen for areas where you can improve and track your progress over time.
Conclusion
In conclusion, The Shins New Slang Chords are not only integral to the song's identity but also serve as a wonderful introduction to indie rock guitar playing. With its simple yet effective chord progression, "New Slang" remains a beloved track that continues to resonate with new generations of listeners. Whether you're a beginner looking to expand your repertoire or a seasoned musician wanting to revisit a classic, mastering "New Slang" will undoubtedly enrich your musical journey. So grab your guitar, place that capo on the second fret, and enjoy playing this timeless piece!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the basic chords used in 'New Slang' by The Shins?
The basic chords for 'New Slang' are C, G, Am, and F.
Are there any capo requirements for playing 'New Slang'?
Yes, you can place a capo on the 2nd fret to make the chord shapes easier to play.
Is 'New Slang' suitable for beginner guitar players?
Yes, the song features simple chord progressions and is often recommended for beginners.
What is the strumming pattern for 'New Slang'?
A common strumming pattern for 'New Slang' is down, down-up, up, down-up.
Are there any online resources for learning 'New Slang' chords?
Yes, there are many tutorials on YouTube and chord websites like Ultimate Guitar that provide lessons and chord charts for 'New Slang'.
