Here’s an expanded version of the "Exploring Exotic Scales" blog with interval sequences, examples, and suggestions for incorporating each scale into your playing. This will give readers practical guidance and insight into the unique sound of each scale.
Exploring Exotic Scales: Add a New Flavour to Your Sound
Hi Alien Guitarists,
If you want to break out of the norm and add fresh, unique sounds to your playing, experimenting with exotic scales is the way to go. These scales offer distinct interval patterns that bring flavour and colour to your solos and riffs. Here’s a breakdown of some of the most expressive exotic scales, along with interval sequences and examples for each.
Hungarian Minor Scale
- Interval Sequence: 1, 2, ♭3, ♯4, 5, ♭6, 7
- Example in A: A, B, C, D#, E, F, G#
The Hungarian Minor Scale, sometimes called the “Double Harmonic Minor,” is known for its dark and mysterious tone. Its raised fourth and natural seventh create a unique sound that’s haunting and dramatic, perfect for solos that need a tense, exotic feel.
How to Use It: Try incorporating this scale in minor-key solos. For example, in A minor, combine the A Hungarian Minor scale with the natural minor to create contrast. This scale works well in darker, more atmospheric genres like progressive rock and heavy metal, where you want to add an edge of mystery.
Application Tip: Start with a minor arpeggio and shift into the Hungarian Minor scale to create unexpected tension. For example, move from an A minor arpeggio (A, C, E) into A Hungarian Minor phrases.
Japanese Scale (Hirajoshi Scale)
- Interval Sequence: 1, 2, ♭3, 5, ♭6
- Example in E: E, F#, G, B, C
The Japanese Scale, often referred to as the Hirajoshi scale, has a cinematic and ethereal quality. Its five-note structure omits the fourth and seventh degrees, creating an open sound that feels delicate yet haunting. This scale is commonly used in traditional Japanese music but can add an introspective, mystical vibe to modern playing.
How to Use It: In an E minor context, use the E Japanese Scale to craft dreamy or atmospheric solos, particularly over clean or reverb-heavy tones. This scale shines in genres like ambient, folk, or any music requiring a softer, more reflective touch.
Application Tip: Play this scale over minor or sus chords, using its minor third and flat sixth to emphasise a reflective quality. For example, pair the E Japanese Scale with an Em or Em7 chord to enhance its melancholy tone.
Byzantine Scale
- Interval Sequence: 1, ♭2, 3, 4, 5, ♭6, 7
- Example in D: D, D#, F#, G, A, Bb, C#
The Byzantine Scale, also known as the Double Harmonic Major, has a distinct Eastern sound with a strong, dramatic character. The combination of a flat second and natural seventh creates a sound that's both exotic and intense, ideal for adding depth and tension to your playing.
How to Use It: The Byzantine scale is perfect for riffs or solos in D major or D minor contexts. For instance, in a metal or rock setting, use it to craft ominous melodies or intros that immediately catch the listener’s ear.
Application Tip: To maximise its effect, start with a strong D power chord (D, A) and then introduce phrases from the D Byzantine Scale. The interval between the flat second and the major third gives this scale a “push-pull” feel, so focus on sliding or bending from the flat second (D#) to the third (F#) to bring out its exotic tension.
These scales are just the beginning of your exploration into exotic tonalities. Experimenting with unique intervals will challenge your ear and add more dimension to your solos. Each scale can be explored in greater depth in the AGS Fretboard Mastery Course, where you’ll find structured practice sessions designed to help you integrate exotic scales fluidly into your playing style.
Peace, Rob Lobasso 👽🎸🤘
