The Killers Style

Hi GMC!

Welcome to this new lesson! This time I’m covering the popular American Rock band called “The Killers”, formed in in 2001 by members Brandon Flowers (lead vocals, keyboards, bass) and Dave Keuning (lead guitar, backing vocals). Mark Stoermer (bass, rhythm guitar, backing vocals) and Ronnie Vannucci Jr. (drums, percussion)

Music Style:
Their music is very unique, and combines elements from many styles like Post Punk, Indie Rock, Alternative, New Wave and Pop. I personally find that what’s even more important is that they have great songs, catchy, but interesting pieces of music, that usually combine up beat tempo, with epic melodies, and deep lyrics. This lesson is based on some of their most popular early days tunes, but they keep on making cool music.

Tonality, Chord Progression & Scales:
Their songs are usually around the most used Pop Rock progressions, but they usually find a way to make them more interesting, by adding some chord variations with repetition, and with an interesting arrangements work done by each musician. In this case we will focus on guitars, so you’ll see how the chord progressions are arranged with triads, melodies, and different rhythms. The key of this tune is D major.

Techniques:
This lesson combines the used of arpeggios, triads, alternate picking for melodies and some downpicking. It’s a great rhythm exercise for beginners.


Sound:
I used Amplitube 4 with the following settings:



I used Cubase to record audio and midi, superior drummer for drums and Trillian for bass.



Tuning: Standard 440.

Tempo: 147 BPM