Entertainment
Where It Belongs Airiel Tab: A Complete Guide for Guitar Enthusiasts
If you are a fan of shoegaze music, or just love discovering unique guitar pieces that can elevate your playing, you have likely stumbled across the enigmatic yet mesmerizing song by Airiel, “Where It Belongs.” This track is a perfect embodiment of dreamy guitar tones and melodic progression that defines the essence of the shoegaze genre. In this blog, we will explore the “Where It Belongs” Airiel tab, its components, how to play it, and what makes it such an iconic piece of music. Let’s dive right in!
Introduction to Airiel and “Where It Belongs”
Airiel is a band that truly understands the shoegaze aesthetic. Originating from Chicago, the band has successfully created music that immerses listeners in lush waves of sound. Their single, “Where It Belongs,” is a perfect representation of their musical style—full of reverberating guitars, hazy vocals, and a complex interplay of atmospheric elements.
The song is a favorite for those who love guitar-centric music. Understanding the “Where It Belongs” Airiel tab gives you a glimpse into the band’s artistry, providing an opportunity for guitar players to recreate that wall of sound that the shoegaze genre is known for.
Why Learn “Where It Belongs” by Airiel?
There are several reasons why learning the “Where It Belongs” Airiel tab can be beneficial for guitarists:
- Developing Skills in Effects and Soundscapes: Shoegaze relies heavily on effects such as reverb, delay, and overdrive. Learning this track will teach you how to control these effects effectively.
- Understanding Complex Chord Progressions: The unique progressions in “Where It Belongs” help guitarists explore non-traditional chord voicings and finger placements.
- Immersing Yourself in the Shoegaze Genre: Airiel’s music serves as a masterclass in shoegaze. By practicing the “Where It Belongs” Airiel tab, you will learn the key elements of this genre, including the use of alternate tunings and layered sound.
Breaking Down the “Where It Belongs” Airiel Tab
1. Tuning and Effects Setup
To accurately play the “Where It Belongs” Airiel tab, you’ll need to use the standard tuning (EADGBE). However, it’s important to note that effects are just as important as the notes themselves in shoegaze music.
- Reverb: Essential for creating the dreamy soundscape that Airiel is known for.
- Delay: Use a moderate delay setting to make each note linger and add depth to the sound.
- Overdrive: Adds a slightly distorted texture, which is typical of shoegaze guitar tones.
2. The Intro Section
The intro is characterized by an ethereal guitar melody that is drenched in reverb. The “Where It Belongs” Airiel tab starts with an open string picking pattern that gradually builds into a layered sound. Here is a simplified version of the opening riff:
E|-----------------------0---------------0-|
B|----------0---------------0-------------|
G|------2-------2---2-----------2---------|
D|----2---2-------------------------------|
A|--0-------------------------------------|
E|----------------------------------------|This riff repeats with slight variations, creating a hypnotic effect. Pay attention to how the reverb sustains each note, filling the space and creating a wall of sound.
3. Verse Chord Progressions
The verse section of the “Where It Belongs” Airiel tab involves a combination of simple and suspended chords. The chords are strummed in a syncopated rhythm, creating a push and pull effect that is reminiscent of waves—a signature characteristic of shoegaze music.
Here is an example of the verse progression:
E|--0----0----0----0-|
B|--0----3----0----1-|
G|--2----2----4----2-|
D|--2----0----5----2-|
A|--0----0----5----0-|
E|-------------------|These chords are played in a continuous cycle, allowing the listener to get lost in the sound.
4. Chorus and Dynamic Shifts
The chorus of “Where It Belongs” is where the song truly blossoms. The “Where It Belongs” Airiel tab for this section utilizes a combination of power chords and open voicings, along with heavy effects to create an overwhelming soundscape. Focus on dynamics here—strumming harder during key moments will create the sense of urgency and emotion that defines this part of the track.
A sample chorus progression looks like this:
E|--0----0----0----0-|
B|--3----1----0----0-|
G|--2----0----2----2-|
D|--0----2----2----2-|
A|-------3----0----0-|
E|-------------------|For the chorus, use heavier overdrive to distinguish it from the verse sections. Layered delay can also help enhance the sound, giving it a rich, full texture.
5. Bridge Section
The bridge is where Airiel showcases their talent for creating intricate layers of guitar parts that perfectly blend with each other. The “Where It Belongs” Airiel tab for the bridge involves arpeggiated chords played with a delay effect, contributing to the overall dreamy atmosphere of the song.
Bridge Tab Example:
E|--7----7----7----7-|
B|--8----7----5----7-|
G|--7----7----6----6-|
D|--0----0----0----0-|
A|-------------------|
E|-------------------|Tips for Practicing the “Where It Belongs” Airiel Tab
- Slow It Down: The song can feel a bit overwhelming, especially with the effects involved. Start slow and gradually increase your speed once you feel comfortable with the transitions.
- Focus on Tone: Shoegaze is all about the soundscape. Pay careful attention to your effects settings. Reverb and delay should be adjusted until they match the overall vibe of the original track.
- Layering Guitar Parts: The “Where It Belongs” Airiel tab includes multiple layers of guitar. If you are playing solo, consider recording different parts and layering them using a loop pedal to capture the full sound.
- Use a Metronome: Timing is crucial, especially with the intricate picking patterns and syncopated strumming. Practicing with a metronome will help you lock into the groove.
What Makes “Where It Belongs” Stand Out?
“Where It Belongs” stands out because of its complex layering, atmospheric effects, and its ability to create an emotional journey for the listener. The “Where It Belongs” Airiel tab gives guitarists a unique opportunity to experiment with soundscapes and build a truly captivating musical experience. Learning this song is about more than just playing notes; it’s about understanding how sound and emotion are intertwined.
Common Challenges When Learning “Where It Belongs”
- Effect Management: One of the biggest challenges is managing the effects pedals to achieve the same sound as the recording. Practice switching your effects on and off seamlessly while playing.
- Alternate Picking Patterns: The picking patterns can be intricate and require smooth transitions. It might take some time to build the muscle memory required to play these parts effortlessly.
- Dynamic Control: Shoegaze is known for its dynamic shifts—from quiet, reverb-laden moments to powerful, distorted climaxes. Make sure to practice these shifts, and use the volume knob on your guitar to help manage dynamics.
Final Thoughts on the “Where It Belongs” Airiel Tab
The “Where It Belongs” Airiel tab is a fantastic way to dive into the shoegaze genre and explore how intricate guitar parts and effects combine to create a rich soundscape. Whether you are a seasoned player or just starting, tackling this song will expand your skills and give you a deeper appreciation for the art of layering and tone management.
Airiel has mastered the shoegaze craft, and “Where It Belongs” is a testament to that expertise. Take your time exploring each section of the “Where It Belongs” Airiel tab, and soon you will find yourself enveloped in a haze of reverb and delay, embodying the essence of shoegaze itself.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What tuning is used in “Where It Belongs” by Airiel?
The “Where It Belongs” Airiel tab uses standard tuning (EADGBE). However, the secret lies in the use of effects to create the unique shoegaze sound.
2. Do I need any specific guitar pedals to play this song?
Yes, you will need a good reverb and delay pedal. An overdrive pedal is also recommended to achieve the distorted sound in the chorus.
3. How can I get the best shoegaze tone for “Where It Belongs”?
Experiment with different settings on your reverb and delay pedals. Shoegaze is all about finding the right combination that creates a wall of sound.
4. Can beginners learn the “Where It Belongs” Airiel tab?
Absolutely! Beginners can take on this song by breaking it down into sections and practicing each part slowly. The picking patterns might be challenging at first, but with consistent practice, they will become easier.
5. How many guitars are layered in the original recording?
The original recording features multiple layers of guitars, typical of shoegaze tracks. To capture the full sound, consider using a looper pedal to layer parts when practicing.
Conclusion
Learning the “Where It Belongs” Airiel tab is a rewarding experience for any guitarist wanting to explore the lush, dreamy world of shoegaze. The techniques you learn here—from managing effects pedals to understanding dynamic layering—will not only help you master this song but also enhance your overall playing ability.
By spending time with the “Where It Belongs” Airiel tab, you’ll gain an appreciation for the shoegaze genre and become more confident in your ability to create expansive, textured guitar sounds. So plug in your pedals, crank up the reverb, and get ready to lose yourself in the haze of “Where It Belongs.” Happy playing!