"Guitar playing, according to John Butler, is a harmony of structure and unpredictability, with one hand embodying control and the other fostering fluidity. In this captivating masterclass, Butler reveals his insights."
In the world of acoustic guitar music, John Butler stands out as a distinctive and innovative artist. His mastery of various techniques, from double-stops to chicken picking, has earned him a loyal fanbase and critical acclaim.
John Butler's double-stops, as showcased in his G major compositions, involve a dance between both hands. He often employs this technique on the fourth (D) and second (B) strings, travelling down the neck of the guitar.
One of the building blocks of Butler's double thumb playing is demonstrated in four examples (Ex1a through to Ex1d). His unique approach to this technique is characterised by his thumb picking the lower strings with a constant-quarter note rhythm, while his index, middle, and ring fingers pick at different times.
Butler's repertoire also includes the chicken picking technique, which he learned in Byron Bay, Australia. Interestingly, while John uses a thumbpick, it's not necessary to do so for chicken picking.
John Butler favours open tunings, particularly CGCGCE and GDGBD with a low C, for his compositions. He uses these tunings to create intricate double-stops, such as the one found in his song Spring To Come.
In his new album "Prism", produced together with James Ireland, Butler demonstrates his versatility by using a variety of tunings and techniques. One such example is his use of the double-stop in open D tuning (DADF#AD), which utilises 6th intervals in G major.
Butler's unique 11-string Maton guitar, tuned to BF#BF#BD#, also features prominently in his music. In this tuning, he demonstrates a double-stop that creates a B major chord when all open strings are played together.
In addition to double-stops and chicken picking, Butler also employs hammer-ons to create colour with big note interval jumps. He uses this technique on Running To Keep Up from his instrumental album, Still Searching.
Butler's approach to music can be seen as a constant exploration and evolution of his craft. He describes his techniques as a dance between both hands, a testament to his unique and captivating style.
