Jam Track 28 - 60s Surf Rock Picking Workout

This Jam Track puts some alternate picking to the test with a 60s surf rock style workout.

We're also introducing slap-back delay, that short echo effect that defined the rockabilly and surf rock sound.

The riff follows a 12-bar blues format and uses one string at a time so you can really focus on building speed.

We start super slow, and each time the pattern repeats, the tempo increases by 10 BPM.

Main Learning Points:

• Setting up slap-back delay: short delay time with minimal repeats

• Starting with an upstroke because the riff begins on the "and"

• The picking pattern: up at open, down at 3rd fret, down-up-down on 3-5-3

• Moving the pattern across strings following a 12-bar structure

• Muting technique between string changes

• Progressive tempo increases through four cycles

If you have a Spark amp or Boss Katana, you can dial in a surf rock preset most likely! Otherwise, set your delay time very short (tap tap tap quickly) and keep the feedback low. That classic sound is the foundation of countless iconic riffs.