Rock Piano Chops by Mark Harrison

Author:Mark Harrison
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Hal Leonard
Published: 2014-03-26T00:00:00+00:00

Straight-16ths Groove Variation #4

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This fourth variation uses a mixture of fourth and fifth intervals, double 4ths, triads, suspensions, and pentatonic fills in the right hand, for a more sophisticated effect. At the beginning of measures 1 and 2, the B♭-F and E♭-B♭ fifth intervals collectively create the third, seventh, and fourth (11th) on the Cm7 chord, and the root, fifth, and ninth on the E♭ major chord. These modern, transparent sounds are good alternatives to triads. Later, in measure 1 on the B♭/D chord, we use the double 4th C-F-B♭, which is the ninth, fifth, and root of the B♭ chord, followed by a fill derived from the B♭ pentatonic scale. In measure 2 on the Fm7 chord, we are using the alternating upper triads A♭ and E♭, followed by a fill derived from the A♭ pentatonic, or F minor pentatonic, scale. During measures 3–4, the melodic top line over the chords, alternating between E♭ and D, is supported by a mix of triads, suspensions, and inverted double 4ths.

Rhythmically, this is the most intense 16th-note groove so far, with the right- and left-hand parts in an interlocking rhythmic conversation that uses most of the available subdivisions. The left-hand 16th-note octaves (at the beginning of measures 1–3, leading into the right-hand fifth intervals) effectively propel the groove. Note that the left hand is still anchoring the chord roots on beats 1 and 3 of each measure.

When practicing, you may find it helpful to isolate the right-hand part first, and then add the left-hand part, which is essentially added into the rhythmic spaces between the right-hand voicings. This is a good conceptual approach to building these funky 16-note rock comping parts.

Next we’ll combine these four Straight-16ths Groove Variations into one long Groove Lab example. The following audio tracks contain two repeats each of the preceding Groove Variations #1–#4, with the rhythm section on the left channel so you can play along with the band.

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