Lap, pedal, resonator or other models, using metal bars, bottles or more, it’s all about the technique. You can do it sitting down, standing up, or sideways, and especially if you close your eyes it’s smooth and, well, so undeniably sexy
Read moreMeet me in the middle? Songs about compromise
It’s all about the C-word in song, but does it strengthen or weaken us? Does it hold society together or kill artistic integrity? You can’t always get what you want, but can you give a little, take it a little? Can we work it out, or just do it my way?
Read moreDon't fret about the riff: it's songs about guitars
Thrum! This week let's pluck out out songs that mention guitars in lyrics or title, whether electric, acoustic or bass, and what role or meaning they have – companion, inspiration, religion, weapon, language or more
Read moreWhat comes next? Songs with surprising, strange or disguised intros
Unrecognisable after the first few seconds? It begins with odd sounds or another style? This week let's play with songs that initially keep you guessing, and don’t start as a they mean to go on
Read moreFlatter, sharper, stranger, stronger: successful out-of-tune songs
Whether through emotion, offbeat oddness, anger, charisma, or for effect, suggest songs where the voice or instrument’s note-imperfect wavering somehow works wonders
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