Learning "Barstool Warrior" by Dream Theater

Playing Technique
#1

Hi guys,

I’m trying to learn this song (just 1st minute more or less ok so far) and I reach a solo part where I’m stuck (it’s the quick part between 1:08-1:10)

Captura de pantalla 2020-08-20 a las 20.59.21

This is what I’m trying (in song order):

d-> downstroke
u-> upstroke

3rd string -> D-U-D with inverse pickslanting
4th string -> U-D-U-D-U with inverse pickslanting
3rd & 2nd -> D-D with normal pickslanting

Up to 70-75% speed it’s ok, but on higher rythms, I’m not able to do it well, specially when returning from 4th string to 3rd forcing to invert pickslanting

Advices?

Greetings and thanks from Granada, Spain.

#2

It’s been awhile since I listened to that song, though I remember it being one of the better ones on there. Depending on the tempo, I would play DUD on the G string, then using the 8th note as a ‘rest’, start the line on the D string with a D. This will give you DUDUD sweep D sweep D.

Practice playing a ‘gallop’ rhythm on the G string, ba da ba, then switch to the D and play 1 e and a 2. Repeat that over and over and you will see that it is doable. I naturally play with a downstroke escape motion, so this style of riff works perfectly with my right hand.

#3

Yeah, @shredhead7 is right - no point changing the pick slant if you dont have too - 8th note gives you the time.

#4

Great advice guys, it helped me a lot, now I improved a lot!

Now I know string skipping technique is crucial for high speeds xD

#5

No problem. You have inspired me to learn this song also! Pretty tricky with all the different time signatures - I struggle to remember all of the parts! Haha