3 Blues Triangles That Will Massively Change Your Soloing Today

Hey, fellow guitar enthusiasts! Today, I'm excited to share a game-changing pattern that has revolutionized my blues playing after over 30 years of exploring the fretboard. I call it the "Three Blues Triangles," and once you see them, you won't be able to unsee the incredible possibilities they unlock. Stick around, and I'll guide you through this pattern, empowering your blues playing instantly. And don't stress; I've got a handy PDF for you as extra support, linked below.

Introducing the Three Blues Triangles

Firstly, this pattern isn't exclusive to blues, but it's where I find it exceptionally powerful. If you're familiar with the basic pentatonic scale, particularly the commonly known "form one" or "form five," then you're ready for this journey. Picture a triangle within this form, and let's explore how this simple concept can significantly enhance your blues vocabulary.

Navigating the First Triangle

Starting in the eighth position on strings 2 & 3 (see video), visualize the first triangle within the basic pentatonic scale. Now, imagine bumping it up a whole step, and there you have the legendary BB box, allowing you to infuse your playing with all the major blues vibes. Take another leap, this time three frets up, and you unveil yet another form of the blues. These three triangles offer diverse tonal palettes within easy reach.

Practical Application: A Bluesy Noodle Session

To illustrate the power of these triangles, let me demonstrate a bluesy noodle session over a backing track. I'll exclusively use the three triangles, employing just a handful of notes within each, and you'll witness the richness and variety they bring to the table.

Here's a practical demonstration, moving seamlessly between the three triangles with a bluesy backing track.

Understanding the Breakdown

It's crucial to understand that each triangle has its unique characteristics. The starting point or tonic of each triangle is essential for resolving your licks effectively. Pay attention to how you treat this tonic, adapting your licks accordingly. For instance, in the BB box, you might employ different phrasing or bending techniques to capture the essence of that specific triangle.

Taking it Further: The Adjacent String Trick

One of the beauties of this pattern is its adaptability. If you've followed my adjacent string trick, you can easily transpose these triangles to adjacent strings, expanding your playing even further. The same licks and patterns can be applied seamlessly on strings four and five, providing you with a new sonic landscape to explore.

Homework Assignment: Triangle by Triangle Mastery

Now, for your homework assignment, I want you to take your time with each triangle. Start by jamming with a backing track using the first triangle, allowing yourself to become intimately familiar with its nuances. Once you feel confident, progress to the second triangle, and then the third. Don't rush; it's essential to internalize the feel of each triangle before moving on.

Unlocking New Dimensions: The Lower Octave

As a bonus, you can apply the adjacent string trick to drop these triangles down an octave. This opens up a whole new set of riffs and expands the areas of the neck you can play off. The simplicity of this concept belies the depth of musical exploration it offers.

Conclusion: Elevate Your Blues Playing

In conclusion, the Three Blues Triangles provide a straightforward yet incredibly powerful approach to blues playing. Embrace simplicity, channel your inner BB King, and focus on extracting emotion from every note. Don't fall into the trap of thinking more notes equate to better playing—quality over quantity. Practice each triangle, master their unique characteristics, and witness the transformation in your blues expression.

So, grab your guitar, dive into these triangles, and let the blues journey begin. And don't forget to check out the accompanying PDF for extra guidance. Happy playing!

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