Guitar Practice
Today, let's take a look at a chord progression using some unique chord voicings, that take advantage of plenty of open strings.
This progression is in the key of A minor and creates a dark, melancholic sound by using chord extensions and altered tones instead of basic triads.
It begins with Am9 resolving to Am, where the added 9th creates tension that naturally pulls toward the simpler A minor chord. From there, the progression moves to Gadd9, which adds color and a slightly unresolved feeling that helps the harmony flow forward.
The A7sus4 acts as a dreamy substitute for A7 and leads smoothly to Dm, since A functions as the dominant of D minor. This movement gives the progression a satisfying sense of direction.
Instead of a plain F chord, the progression uses FM7♭5 and Fadd♭5, adding a darker and more tense quality. These altered tones make the harmony feel more emotional and atmospheric.
Throughout the progression, the three minor chords in A minor (Am, Dm, and Em) help reinforce the sad mood, while extensions like Em9 and suspensions such as Esus4 add subtle tension before resolving.
The progression ultimately returns to Am, bringing the harmony back home.
News & Notes 🗞️
- Doug Irwin, the Northern California luthier who designed and built some of Jerry Garcia’s most iconic guitars, has died at 76.
- 📺 Check out a new masterclass from Julian Lage, done as part of the 2026 GroundUP Music Festival. In addition to answering questions from the audience, Julian announced that he recorded 2 more new albums; one with his trio, and one that's a duo album with bassist Jorge Roeder. Also, check out Julian sitting in with the Tedeschi Trucks Band during their recent run at NYC's Beacon Teather.
- Andertons Music announced a run of custom-spec Fender Road Worn guitars. These Anderton's-exclusive guitar combine high end, vintage inspired specs with a closet vibe nitro finish, at a price you'd expect from a Mexican made Fender.
- Andertons Music also posted a casual video chatting about the tele, titled A Love Letter to the Telecaster.
- Doug Irwin, the Northern California luthier who designed and built some of Jerry Garcia’s most iconic guitars, has died at 76.
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