My Chemical Romance: Punk Style

Hello GMC'ers! Welcome to a new series of two lessons based on the style of the band My Chemical Romance. In this first lesson we will cover their more powerful side, and in the next one we will cover their ballad style. MCR is an American rock band from New Jersey, formed in 2001. The members of the band are Gerard Way (Vocals), Ray Toro (Lead Guitar), Frank Lero (Rhythm Guitar) and Mickey Way (Bass). This tune has been composed based on punk/rocker songs like “Welcome To The Black Parade”, “Dead” & “Helena”.

Style:
This band shows a lot of different influences. They combine elements from Rock, Punk, Pop, Emo and Metal. They record lots of backing vocals, guitar harmonizations, strings, and keys which in some instances remind me of Queen’s Opera Rock Style and some other power metal bands.

Chord Progression:
The first section has a cadence closer to the song “Welcome To The Black Parade”. It’s a classical Major progression that functions as an intro and gives a very Epic vibe to the song. The other sections are Major progressions which are commonly used in Pop Punk music.

Key:
A Major

Scales:
* A Major
* A Pentatonic Major.

Techniques:
* Alternate Picking
* Vibrato
* Bending
* Legato
* Strumming

Equipment:
Pod X3 (To record) - the preset includes a JCM800 amp simulator and also a Marshall Cabinet. I added a tube screamer emulator for the solos.

Recommended Listening:
If you like this lesson please check out their album called “The Black Parade” released in 2006.

If you have any questions:
* Give feedback (upper-right-corner)
* My Personal Board
* General Forum

Enjoy! Gabriel