Let's dive deep into New Model Army's iconic track, "51st State." This song is a powerhouse, and understanding its chords is key to unlocking its raw energy. Guys, whether you're a seasoned guitarist or just starting out, this breakdown will equip you with the knowledge to play this anthem with confidence. We'll cover the chord progression, the nuances of the rhythm, and even touch on the song's powerful message. So, grab your guitar, tune up, and let's get started!

Understanding the Chords

The backbone of "51st State" lies in its driving chord progression. The song primarily revolves around a few key chords, making it relatively accessible for intermediate players. The beauty, however, lies in the intensity and rhythm with which these chords are played. Let's break down the main chords you'll need to master:

• E Minor (Em): A foundational chord in rock music, Em provides a dark and brooding feel that perfectly suits the song's atmosphere. Make sure you can transition to and from this chord smoothly.
• C Major (C): This chord offers a bright contrast to the Em, creating a dynamic push and pull in the progression. A clean and clear C Major is crucial.
• G Major (G): Providing a sense of resolution, the G Major helps ground the progression. Pay attention to your finger placement for a full and resonant sound.
• D Major (D): This chord adds a touch of defiance and power. Ensure your D Major rings out clearly, especially during the more intense sections of the song.

These four chords – Em, C, G, and D – form the core of "51st State." While the song might sound complex at first, it's built upon a solid and relatively simple foundation. The challenge, and the fun, comes in capturing the raw energy and driving rhythm that defines the New Model Army sound. Remember to practice your transitions between these chords to ensure a smooth and seamless performance. Experiment with different strumming patterns to find what works best for you and complements the song's overall feel. Don't be afraid to add your own personal touch while staying true to the song's original spirit. Also, listening to the original recording repeatedly will help you internalize the nuances of the chord changes and rhythm, making it easier to replicate on your own. Pay close attention to the dynamics – the changes in volume and intensity – as they play a significant role in conveying the song's emotional message. By mastering these chords and focusing on the rhythmic drive, you'll be well on your way to playing "51st State" with the passion and intensity it deserves.

Decoding the Rhythm

The rhythm in "51st State" is absolutely crucial. It's not just about hitting the chords; it's about hitting them with purpose and aggression. The song typically employs a driving, almost relentless strumming pattern. Here's what you need to focus on:

• Downstrokes: Emphasize downstrokes to create a sense of power and forward momentum. This isn't a gentle, finger-picked song; it's a full-on assault!
• Palm Muting: Experiment with palm muting to add a percussive element to your playing. Lightly resting the edge of your palm on the strings near the bridge will create a dampened, chunkier sound.
• Dynamics: Pay attention to the dynamics of the song. There are moments where the intensity builds, and moments where it pulls back slightly. Use your strumming to reflect these changes.

The rhythmic intensity of "51st State" is what sets it apart. It's not just about playing the right chords; it's about delivering them with a sense of urgency and passion. Practice playing along with the original recording to get a feel for the rhythmic nuances. Pay attention to how the drummer and other instruments interact to create the overall groove. Experiment with different strumming patterns and palm muting techniques to find what works best for you and allows you to express the song's energy. Don't be afraid to push yourself and play with aggression. However, remember to maintain control and precision in your playing. The goal is to create a powerful and driving rhythm that complements the song's message without sacrificing clarity or musicality. Also, consider using a metronome to improve your timing and consistency. This will help you maintain a steady beat and avoid rushing or dragging behind. By focusing on these rhythmic elements, you can elevate your performance of "51st State" from a simple chord progression to a truly impactful and engaging musical experience. It's all about feeling the rhythm and letting it drive your playing.

Analyzing the Structure

"51st State" follows a fairly standard rock song structure, but understanding it can help you navigate the song more easily. Here's a typical breakdown:

• Intro: The song usually kicks off with an instrumental intro, setting the tone and establishing the main riff. Pay attention to the guitar part and try to replicate it.
• Verse: The verses introduce the lyrics and develop the song's theme. The chord progression typically remains consistent throughout the verses.
• Chorus: The chorus is the most memorable and impactful part of the song. It usually features a strong melodic hook and a more intense dynamic.
• Bridge: The bridge offers a change of pace and often introduces new chords or a different rhythmic feel. It can serve as a build-up to the final chorus.
• Outro: The song typically ends with a repeat of the intro riff or a fade-out.

Understanding the structure of "51st State" allows you to anticipate the changes and navigate the song with greater ease. By recognizing the different sections – intro, verse, chorus, bridge, and outro – you can better understand the song's overall flow and how each part contributes to the overall message. This knowledge can also help you memorize the song more easily and improvise your own variations. Pay attention to how the dynamics change throughout the song, with the verses often being quieter and more introspective, and the choruses being louder and more energetic. The bridge typically offers a contrast to the rest of the song, either in terms of tempo, key, or instrumentation. By understanding these structural elements, you can approach your performance of "51st State" with a greater sense of confidence and control, allowing you to focus on expressing the song's powerful message and connecting with your audience. Also, consider creating a song map or chart that visually represents the different sections and chord changes. This can be a helpful tool for memorization and practice. By breaking down the song into its component parts, you can gain a deeper understanding of its overall structure and appreciate the artistry and craftsmanship that went into its creation.

Gear and Tone

While skill is paramount, your gear can also play a role in achieving the right sound for "51st State." Here are a few suggestions:

• Guitar: A solid-body electric guitar with humbucker pickups will provide a powerful and thick tone.
• Amp: A tube amp with a good overdrive channel is ideal. Experiment with different gain settings to find the sweet spot.
• Effects: A touch of reverb can add depth to your sound. Overdrive or distortion pedals can help you achieve a more aggressive tone.

Ultimately, the most important thing is to experiment and find what works best for you. Don't be afraid to try different guitars, amps, and effects until you achieve a sound that you're happy with. Remember that tone is subjective, and what sounds good to one person may not sound good to another. However, by focusing on the fundamentals – a solid guitar, a versatile amp, and a few key effects – you can create a foundation for a great tone that will complement your playing and help you capture the energy of "51st State." Also, consider the specific guitar and amp that New Model Army used on the original recording. While it may not be possible to replicate their exact setup, knowing what they used can provide valuable insights and inspiration. Don't be afraid to experiment with different settings on your amp and effects pedals until you find a sound that is both powerful and articulate. The goal is to create a tone that is both aggressive and clear, allowing you to cut through the mix and deliver the song's message with impact. Finally, remember that your playing technique is just as important as your gear. Focus on developing a strong and consistent picking attack, as well as a solid fretting hand technique. By combining the right gear with the right technique, you can create a tone that is truly your own and that perfectly captures the spirit of "51st State."

The Message Behind the Music

Beyond the chords and rhythm, "51st State" carries a powerful political message. The song critiques the influence of American foreign policy and its impact on other nations. Understanding this context can add another layer of depth to your performance.

• Lyrics: Pay close attention to the lyrics and their meaning. The song is a commentary on cultural imperialism and the loss of sovereignty.
• Context: Research the historical and political context in which the song was written. This will give you a better understanding of the issues that New Model Army was addressing.
• Emotion: Let the song's message inform your playing. Convey the anger, frustration, and sense of urgency that are inherent in the lyrics.

By understanding the message behind "51st State," you can connect with the song on a deeper level and deliver a more impactful performance. The song is not just a collection of chords and rhythms; it is a statement about the world and the challenges that it faces. By internalizing this message, you can transform your playing from a technical exercise into a powerful act of expression. Also, consider the different perspectives that the song represents. While it critiques American foreign policy, it also speaks to the experiences of those who feel marginalized or disenfranchised. By understanding these different perspectives, you can approach your performance with a greater sense of empathy and understanding. Don't be afraid to let your own personal beliefs and experiences inform your interpretation of the song. However, remember to remain respectful of the original message and avoid distorting it for your own purposes. The goal is to use the song as a platform for meaningful dialogue and to inspire others to think critically about the world around them. Finally, remember that music has the power to transcend boundaries and to connect people from different backgrounds. By sharing your interpretation of "51st State" with others, you can contribute to a larger conversation about the issues that matter most.

So there you have it, guys! A comprehensive look at playing "51st State" by New Model Army. Remember to practice, experiment, and most importantly, have fun! This song is a powerful and energetic anthem, and with a little dedication, you'll be able to unleash its full potential. Now go forth and rock!