Hey guitar enthusiasts! Are you ready to dive deep into one of the most iconic tracks from the Deftones? We're talking about "Be Quiet and Drive (Far Away)", a song that perfectly blends ethereal soundscapes with raw emotional power. This article is your ultimate guide to mastering this awesome tune on your six-stringed friend. We'll break down the song's structure, tackle those signature guitar riffs, and help you understand the nuances that make this song a classic. Whether you're a seasoned player or just starting out, this guide will provide you with the tools and knowledge to play "Be Quiet and Drive (Far Away)" with confidence and style. So, grab your guitar, tune it up, and let's get started!

Understanding the Song's Structure and Tuning

First things first, let's talk about the foundation of any great cover: understanding the song's structure. "Be Quiet and Drive (Far Away)" is relatively straightforward in terms of its arrangement, which makes it a great song to learn. The song primarily follows a verse-chorus structure, punctuated by instrumental sections that add to its dreamy quality. You'll find verses that build tension, choruses that explode with energy, and a bridge that provides a moment of introspection before the final crescendo. This basic structure makes it manageable for learning and allows you to focus on the individual parts.

Now, about the tuning. The Deftones are known for using alternative tunings, and this song is no exception. "Be Quiet and Drive (Far Away)" is played in Drop D tuning. This means that you tune your lowest E string down to D. This tuning gives you access to some really cool-sounding power chords, and it makes certain riffs easier to play. If you're not familiar with Drop D tuning, don't worry – it's super easy to learn! Simply loosen the E string (the thickest string) until it matches the pitch of your D string. Once you're in Drop D, you're ready to start playing the song!

To make sure you're in tune, you can use a tuner, a piano, or even an online tuner app. Once you have it, it's a good idea to practice the tuning and get used to how the strings feel at the new tensions. Remember that tuning is crucial before you start playing, to make sure you sound great. Without proper tuning, even the most skilled player will struggle to play any piece accurately. This tuning adjustment might seem like a small detail, but it's a critical step toward unlocking the song's unique sound. So, take your time, get it right, and prepare to discover the magic of "Be Quiet and Drive (Far Away)"!

Decoding the Main Guitar Riffs

Alright, let's get into the meat and potatoes: the guitar riffs! "Be Quiet and Drive (Far Away)" features some truly memorable guitar work, and the riffs are a big reason why this song is so beloved. The intro riff is immediately recognizable – it's the song's signature. It's built around a simple yet effective pattern that is both melodic and powerful. This riff is played with a clean tone and uses a combination of open strings and fretted notes, creating a beautiful and dreamy atmosphere.

Then, there's the chorus riff, which is much heavier. It's characterized by power chords and a more aggressive playing style. This riff provides the energy and the drive to the chorus, contrasting the softer verses. It's really fun to play and it will get you headbanging in no time! The bridge features a more complex and atmospheric riff that adds depth and introspection to the song. It often involves different chord voicings and adds a layer of complexity to the structure.

To master these riffs, start by breaking them down into small, manageable sections. Focus on the notes, the timing, and the picking patterns. Practice slowly at first, gradually increasing your speed as you become more comfortable. Pay close attention to the dynamics – the difference between the soft and loud parts. Experiment with different picking techniques, such as alternate picking and down-picking, to find the sound that you're comfortable with. If you are struggling, try slowing down the song and playing along to it. This will help you identify any areas where you need to work on your technique. Use online resources like YouTube tutorials and guitar tabs to guide you through the fingerings and rhythms. The key is to practice consistently and to enjoy the process of learning. Before you know it, you will be playing the main riffs of "Be Quiet and Drive (Far Away)" like a pro!

Tips for Playing the Song with Feeling

Now that you know how to play the riffs, let's talk about infusing them with emotion. Playing with feeling goes beyond simply hitting the correct notes and rhythms. It's about connecting with the music on a deeper level and conveying that emotion through your playing. "Be Quiet and Drive (Far Away)" is a song that is full of feeling. Capturing this emotion is really important when playing this track.

First, listen to the original song again and again. Pay attention to how Chino Moreno sings and how the guitar parts interact with his voice. Notice how the dynamics build throughout the song. This will help you understand the emotional journey of the song and how the guitar parts support that journey. When you are playing, imagine you are telling the story. This will help you to express the feelings within the music. Use dynamics to your advantage. Vary the volume and intensity of your playing to create contrast and excitement. Play the verses softly and the choruses loudly. Use techniques such as bending, vibrato, and slides to add expression to your playing. Bend notes to create tension and release, use vibrato to give notes life, and slide between notes to add a smooth and flowing quality to your playing.

Moreover, experiment with different tones. Use different pickups on your guitar, or adjust the tone and volume controls to find the sound that best fits your playing style. Practice playing the song along with the original recording. This will help you develop your timing and your feel for the song. Try to match the dynamics and the intensity of the original performance. Most importantly, don't be afraid to experiment and be yourself! Let your personality shine through your playing. There is no right or wrong way to play with feeling. It's about expressing yourself through the music, so have fun, relax, and let the music move you. By focusing on these elements, you'll not only play the notes correctly, but you'll also capture the essence of "Be Quiet and Drive (Far Away)" and transport your listeners.

Essential Gear and Equipment for a Great Sound

Having the right gear can significantly enhance your experience when playing "Be Quiet and Drive (Far Away)". Let's get into the gear you might want to consider to get that awesome sound. Obviously, you'll need a guitar. Any electric guitar will work, but a guitar with humbucker pickups will get you closer to the song's heavier tones. A guitar with a tremolo system can also be useful for adding vibrato and other effects, though it's not essential. Experiment with different types of guitars to find one that you find comfortable to play.

Next, you'll need an amplifier. A solid-state or tube amplifier will work, but a tube amplifier will typically provide a warmer and richer sound that many players prefer. Look for an amplifier that has a clean channel and a distortion channel, to get the range of tones needed for the song. A distortion pedal is essential for the chorus riffs. A good overdrive or distortion pedal will help you achieve the heavy, crunchy sound that is characteristic of the song. Experiment with different types of pedals to find one that matches your personal preferences. Other effects to consider are delay and reverb. The song uses a lot of delay and reverb to create its atmospheric soundscapes. These effects can significantly enhance the dreamy quality of the song. Other accessories will enhance your playing experience, such as a guitar pick (choose one you are comfortable with), a tuner (essential for Drop D tuning), and a guitar strap.

Ultimately, the key is to experiment and find the gear that works best for you and your budget. Don't be afraid to try different combinations of guitars, amplifiers, and effects. With the right gear and a little bit of practice, you'll be able to create an amazing sound of "Be Quiet and Drive (Far Away)"!

Practice Routine and Tips for Improvement

Consistency is key when learning guitar. The best way to master "Be Quiet and Drive (Far Away)" is to establish a consistent practice routine. Start by setting aside dedicated practice time each day or week, even if it's just for 15-30 minutes. Make sure you practice in a quiet area without distractions. Begin with a warm-up. This will help you to prepare your fingers and your mind for playing. This should include some finger exercises and scales to improve your technique. Then, focus on the song's individual riffs. Break them down into small, manageable sections and practice them slowly. Gradually increase your speed as you become more comfortable. Use a metronome to keep your timing consistent. The metronome will help you develop a strong sense of rhythm. Make sure you practice the song in its entirety. This will help you to get a feel for the song's structure and dynamics. Remember to take breaks. Your fingers and your mind need time to rest. Don't push yourself too hard, especially when you are just starting out.

Also, listen to the original recording as often as possible. Pay attention to every aspect of the song, including the guitar parts, the vocals, and the drums. This will help you to get a feel for the song's overall sound and style. Also, consider recording yourself. This will help you to identify any areas where you need to improve. Listen back to your recordings and be honest with yourself about your strengths and weaknesses. Be patient and persistent. Learning to play the guitar takes time and effort. Don't get discouraged if you don't master the song right away. Keep practicing, stay focused, and enjoy the process. By following these tips and practicing consistently, you'll be playing "Be Quiet and Drive (Far Away)" with confidence and skill in no time. So, keep practicing, stay focused, and enjoy the journey!

Conclusion: Your Guitar Journey Begins

So there you have it, folks! This guide is packed with all you need to start your journey into playing "Be Quiet and Drive (Far Away)". We've covered the tuning, the structure, the riffs, playing techniques, the essential gear, and some useful practice tips. Remember that the journey of learning guitar is about enjoyment as much as the destination. Be patient with yourself, celebrate your progress, and never stop exploring. Every time you pick up your guitar, you are getting better. Embrace the learning process, experiment with different techniques, and most importantly, have fun! Practice regularly, listen closely to the original recording, and don't be afraid to add your own personal touch. The more you put into your practice, the more rewarding the experience will be. Once you've mastered this song, you'll be well on your way to playing other Deftones classics and exploring the wide world of guitar. So keep practicing, keep learning, and keep rocking! Now go out there and bring the magic of "Be Quiet and Drive (Far Away)" to life! Rock on!