LYDIAN EXPLORED

Lydian is the 4th mode of the major scale and the 6th of the Minor scale. E Lydian is thus the 4th mode of the B Major Scale and the 6th mode of G# Minor Scale. If you use the E Lydian Mode for soloing in either of these keys you'll sound together.

Now if you play the B major scale and then the B lydian Mode back-to-back, you will notice only one difference - the 4th note of the Lydian mode is sharp by one fret. This #4th (or #11th in the second octave) accounts for the odd-sounding Major #11 chords/arpeggios I have built below. The #4th is also known as the flat 5th (b5th)- a Major 7 b5 and a Major 7 #11 are built with the same notes. Technical improvisers would use the Lydian Mode when chords of this nature appeared in a progression, regardless of the key......

On the other hand, if you try to use the Lydian mode instead of the Major scale you will discover how phrasing with the odd note (b5th)introduces a disturbing edge to the Major context. Cool.

Recommended Listening:
' The World needs a Hero' (the song) by Megadeth

Send your 7 string tips, tricks or queries to Guy Pople: gpople@ntlworld.com

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see also:

Guy's site:
http://www.7string.org/

And previous GNW articles:
http://www.guitarsite.com/newsletters/010430/7.shtml