Capo 3rd fret
[Intro]
Em D Em D
[Verse 1]
Em D
There's a devil in these hollers, my Papaw told me so
Em D
He's hidin' out, somewhere down off Barton Ferry Road
Em D
Got that high speed chicken feed, crystal meth amphetamines
Em D A
Take's you high, then to your knees just like a hilltop church
Em D A
Shakin' up a bottle 'til you're shakin' when it's gone
Em D A
Then you're down at River City pawnin' everything you own
Em D A
Hopin' there's a copper hidin' around these hills
Em D A
Too proud to beg or borrow, but you ain't too proud to steal
[Chorus]
Em D A
Alkaline and Sudafed
Em D A
Paranoia in your head
Em D A
Used to get it from the seed
G A Em D
Now it's Appalachian alchemy, yеah
Em D
Alchemy, yeah
[Verse 2]
Em D A
He grеw up broke, he knows his way around a kitchen
Em D A
Smell on a road of ammonia and mischief
Em D A
His hounds are howlin', the neighbors are bitchin'
Em D A
Everyone knows that ain't dinner Micky's fixin'
[Chorus]
Em D A
Alkaline and Sudafed
Em D A
Paranoia in your head
Em D A
Used to get it from the seed
G A Em D
Now it's Appalachian alchemy, yеah
[Post-Chorus]
Em D Em D Em D
Alchemy, alchemy, alchemy
[Bridge]
Em D
I'll tell you boys, he'll cheat you right
Em D A
'Cause one night, I just went and took me a bite, yeah
Em D A
And that apple fed my, my appetite
Em A
But it left me with a thirst, huh
[Chorus]
Em D A
Alkaline and Sudafed
Em D A
Paranoia in your head
Em D A
Used to get it from the seed
G A Em D
Now it's Appalachian alchemy, yеah
[Outro]
Em D
Alchemy
Em D
Alchemy
Em D
Alchemy
Em
Alchemy
How to play "Appalachian Alchemy" by Shane Elvie on guitar
Playing Style: This song uses a capo on the 3rd fret, creating a higher pitch that
matches the haunting theme of the lyrics. The chord progression is relatively
simple but powerful, focusing on the story told through the lyrics.
Capo Placement:
- Place your capo on the 3rd fret. This will shift the pitch of your open chords
up by three semitones, aligning with the key used in the original recording.
Intro & Outro:
- The intro and outro consist of a repeated Em to D progression. This sets a
somber and reflective tone right from the beginning.
Verse Chords:
- The verses maintain a similar pattern to the intro, alternating between Em and
D, with the addition of A in certain lines to emphasize key lyrical moments.
- Focus on the lyrical delivery here, as the chords support the storytelling.
Chorus Chords:
- Chorus adds a pattern of Em, D, and A, leading into G and A before returning
to the Em and D pattern.
- This progression underlines the chorus's thematic elements — the transformation
described in the lyrics as "Appalachian alchemy."
Strumming Pattern:
- A suitable strumming pattern for this song is Down-Down-Up-Down-Up. This
pattern allows for both rhythmic drive and a connection with the vocal melody.
- Pay attention to dynamics; the strumming should be more intense during the
chorus to reflect the escalation in the song's narrative.
Transitions:
- Smooth transitions between Em, D, and A are crucial, especially as the tempo
and emotional weight of the song build. Practice switching between these
chords fluidly.
Common Mistakes:
- Ignoring the emotional context of the chords relative to the lyrics can make
the performance feel flat. Each chord change should feel intentional and
expressive.
- Overstrumming can overpower the vocals. Maintain a balance where the guitar
complements rather than competes with the singing.
Lyrics Meaning:
"Appalachian Alchemy" narrates the troubling tale of drug addiction in rural
Appalachia, using the metaphor of alchemy to describe the transformation of
mundane materials into methamphetamine. The song paints a vivid picture of the
desperation and decay brought on by addiction.
Through regular practice and focusing on the emotional delivery, you'll be able
to convey the powerful message of this song effectively. Keep practicing, and
enjoy the process of mastering this poignant piece.
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