I have always been a “fast” guitar player pretty much–It seems natural to me. For you practice freaks you will relate to this: Originally when I developed my first fast scale it was starting on a down stroke on a 3 note per string pattern. Down-up-down-down (I used 2 down strokes when changing strings like Frank Gambale) and I alternate picked when descending.
Then one day I saw Paul Gilbert’s Intense Rock Instructional video (holy shit!!!). Well, I couldn’t strictly alternate pick an ascending scale to save my life. Anyway, It took five years to develop this skill–it was like starting over from scratch! I think most guitarists have their own main way of picking. I then studied after all that how Frank Gambale picked. especially his way of sweep picking a pentatonic scale in 4 note groupings.
This technique felt impossible–so I had to start over AGAIN! It has taken seven years to get this down! I figured Gambale can’t alternate pick well and Paul Gilbert is an alternate picker in its most metered extreme but he does not play Gambale’s method.
The answer is LEARN BOTH!!! Every way a pattern can be played should be mastered by using every technique possible. I practice all scales, etc. starting with a downstroke or up stroke at full speed, the point being it doesn’t matter because I’m comfortable with both. If for example you cannot shred a descending scale when you start with an upstroke then make that your main technique goal!
THEN. . .I studied Shawn Lane’s technique. This will take the rest of my life because his technique is what I’ve been talking about with my method. He has his own ultra efficient way. Really you should realize that a “technique” or a “method” will limit you. . .thats why it’s really a “concept” where you figure all this out on your own. The way of no way like Bruce Lee’s Jeet Kune Do.
I think a fantastic book is Mick Goodrick’s The Advancing Guitarist–you really should read it! Shawn Lane truly inspired me in a new way, like I believe my ability is Limitless! I am heavily into my own intervallic style and I don’t use “scales” any more (there’s too many) just like Marty Friedman once said to do.
I think in terms of harmony, you know, chords. My philosophy is if it seems like it’s too difficult then I HAVE to make it my reason for living! You maintain what you can do (20% of your practice time) and go through hell learning what you can’t (80 % of your practice time). Anyway, stay inspired at all times and Play your guitar!
