[Chorus]
N.C.
I'm on the last train I'll ever ride again it's a dead line
N.C.
They call the L&N I've got a new way ain't gettin' out alive
N.C. G D C G G D G
I'm on the last train I'll ever ride
[Verse 1]
G C G
I guess I don't rightly know
D C G
What to do or who to choose or which way to go
C G
It's a short life for a poor man all alone
D C G
Without a loving woman or a child or a home
[Chorus]
N.C. G D
I'm on the last train I'll ever ride again it's a dead line
C G Em
They call the L&N I've got a new way ain't gettin' out alive
D G
I'm on the last train I'll ever ride
[Interlude]
G D C G Em D G
[Verse 2]
G C G
I feel like a decommissioned car
D C G
Rusting on the outskirts of some forgotten yard
C G
In the moonlight you can't see all my scars
D C G
No one ever wanted to heal my aching heart
[Chorus]
N.C. G D
I'm on the last train I'll ever ride again it's a dead line
C G Em
They call the L&N I've got a new way ain't gettin' out alive
D G
I'm on the last train I'll ever ride
[Guitar Solo]
G D C G Em D G
[Out-Chorus]
G D
I'm on the last train I'll ever ride again it's a dead line
C G Em
They call the L&N I've got a new way ain't gettin' out alive
D G
I'm on the last train I'll ever ride
D G
I'm on the last train I'll ever ride
How to play "Last Train" by Lost Dog Street Band on guitar
Playing Style: This song combines traditional folk and country elements,
emphasizing a storytelling approach with a melancholic undertone.
[Chorus]
Chords: N.C. (No Chord), G, D, C, Em
- Begin with spoken word style during the N.C. to emphasize the narrative,
then strum G, D, and C to build into the melody.
- The transition from G to D and then to C adds a sense of urgency and
reflection which suits the theme of finality in the song.
[Verse 1]
Chords: G, C, D
- Use a steady strumming pattern. The verse tells a personal story, so keep
the guitar work simple to let the lyrics stand out.
- Focus on clean transitions between chords to maintain the flow of the
narrative.
[Interlude]
Chords: G, D, C, G, Em, D, G
- This section serves as a reflective pause, use a mixture of strumming and
light picking to highlight the introspective mood.
[Verse 2]
Follow the same chord pattern as Verse 1:
- The continuity in chords helps to sustain the song's storytelling rhythm
and gives cohesion to the structure.
[Guitar Solo]
Chords: G, D, C, G, Em, D, G
- Emulate the vocal melody or improvise based on the scale of G major.
Keep the solo expressive but aligned with the song's somber tone.
[Out-Chorus]
Repeat the chorus chords with perhaps a slight increase in intensity:
- As the song concludes, bring your playing to a crescendo that reflects the
emotional climax of the lyrics.
General Tips:
- Tuning: Standard tuning is appropriate for this song.
- Be mindful of the dynamics, especially during the N.C. parts where the
vocal delivery should take precedence.
- Practice the rhythm and flow of the song to ensure that the emotional
weight of the lyrics is effectively conveyed through your playing.
Common Mistakes:
- Not respecting the pauses marked by N.C. which are crucial for setting
the tone of the song.
- Overplaying during the verses can distract from the storytelling, so
maintain a balance between your playing and the vocals.
Lyrics Meaning:
"Last Train" metaphorically describes a final journey, reflecting themes
of inevitability and resignation. It speaks to life's irreversible decisions
and the melancholy that often accompanies final farewells.