Hey guys! Ready to dive into the dark and epic world of Ghost? Today, we’re going to break down how to play a guitar cover of their incredible album, Infestissumam. Whether you're a seasoned guitarist or just starting, this guide will provide you with everything you need to nail those riffs and solos. So grab your guitar, tune up, and let's get started!

Why Cover Infestissumam?

Infestissumam is Ghost at their finest. Released in 2013, this album is a masterpiece of melodic and theatrical rock. It blends heavy metal with catchy melodies, creating a unique sound that’s both haunting and captivating. Covering this album is not only a fun challenge but also a fantastic way to explore different guitar techniques and musical styles. The album is filled with catchy hooks, harmonized guitar parts, and a generally spooky vibe that makes it a blast to play.

Think about songs like "Year Zero" with its instantly recognizable intro or "Monstrance Clock" with its majestic, almost hymnal quality. Each track presents a unique set of challenges and rewards for guitarists. Plus, covering Ghost is a great way to stand out. While there are plenty of metal covers out there, Ghost's unique blend of genres means your cover will likely catch the ear of fans and fellow musicians alike. It allows you to explore elements of progressive rock, melodic metal, and even a touch of psychedelic rock, all while staying true to the band's distinctive sound. This complexity makes learning Ghost songs an enriching experience, pushing you to become a more versatile and skilled player. By tackling the intricacies of Infestissumam, you're not just learning songs; you're expanding your musical horizons and adding depth to your guitar playing repertoire.

Gear Up: What You'll Need

Before we dive into the specifics, let's talk about gear. Having the right equipment can make a significant difference in how your cover sounds.

• Guitar: Ideally, you’ll want a guitar with humbucker pickups. These pickups provide a thick, powerful sound that suits Ghost's heavy tone. Think about guitars like a Gibson Les Paul, an SG, or even some Ibanez models. However, don't feel limited! Any guitar that can produce a solid rock tone will work. The key is to focus on getting a good, clean sound that you can then modify with effects.
• Amplifier: A good amp is crucial. A tube amp is fantastic for that warm, overdriven sound that’s characteristic of Ghost. If you're using a digital amp, experiment with different amp models to find one that emulates a British-style amp like a Vox or Marshall. Setting your amp to a moderate gain level will allow you to achieve the desired crunch without sacrificing clarity. Consider using an amp simulator plugin if you're recording at home, as these can provide a wide range of tones without the need for a physical amp.
• Effects Pedals: This is where you can really dial in your tone. Essential pedals include:
  • Overdrive/Distortion: A good overdrive pedal can add that extra layer of grit and sustain to your tone. Experiment with different settings to find what works best for your guitar and amp. Popular choices include the Ibanez Tube Screamer or the Boss SD-1.
  • Delay: Delay is crucial for creating those atmospheric textures in Ghost's music. An analog delay can provide a warm, vintage sound, while a digital delay offers more precise control. Experiment with different delay times and feedback levels to achieve the desired effect.
  • Reverb: Reverb adds depth and space to your sound, making it sound more expansive and professional. A plate or hall reverb can work well for emulating the ambiance in Ghost's songs. Adjust the decay time to match the mood of the song.
  • Chorus/Phaser: Some Ghost songs feature subtle chorus or phaser effects to add a swirling, psychedelic texture to the guitar tone. Experiment with these effects sparingly to enhance the atmosphere of the song.
• DAW (Digital Audio Workstation): If you plan to record your cover, you'll need a DAW. Popular options include Ableton Live, Logic Pro, Pro Tools, and GarageBand (which is a great free option for beginners). Familiarize yourself with the basics of recording, mixing, and mastering to achieve a polished final product.

Breaking Down Key Tracks

Let's dive into some specific songs from Infestissumam to illustrate the techniques and approaches you’ll need.

Year Zero

"Year Zero" is arguably one of Ghost’s most iconic songs. The intro riff is instantly recognizable and sets the tone for the entire album. To play this song effectively:

• Intro Riff: Focus on the palm-muted chugs. Keep your picking hand relaxed and consistent to maintain the rhythmic drive. Pay attention to the dynamics, varying your attack to create emphasis on certain notes.
• Verse: The verse features a melodic guitar line that contrasts with the heavy intro. Practice this section slowly to ensure you're hitting each note cleanly. Pay attention to the phrasing and dynamics to convey the emotion of the song.
• Chorus: The chorus is where the song really opens up. Strum the chords with authority, letting them ring out. Focus on creating a wall of sound to match the epic scale of the chorus.
• Solo: The guitar solo in "Year Zero" is relatively straightforward but requires precision and control. Practice bending the notes accurately and smoothly. Pay attention to the vibrato to add character to your playing. This solo is all about feel, so don't be afraid to inject your own personality into it.

Monstrance Clock

"Monstrance Clock" is another standout track with a majestic, almost hymnal quality. The guitar parts are intricate and require careful attention to detail:

• Intro: The intro features a clean, arpeggiated guitar part. Practice this section slowly to ensure each note rings out clearly. Pay attention to the dynamics, varying your attack to create a sense of ebb and flow.
• Verse: The verse features a heavier, more distorted guitar tone. Strum the chords with power and precision, letting them ring out. Focus on creating a wall of sound to match the epic scale of the song.
• Chorus: The chorus is where the song really takes off. Strum the chords with authority, letting them ring out. Focus on creating a wall of sound to match the epic scale of the chorus. This section is all about energy and emotion, so don't be afraid to let loose.
• Bridge: The bridge features a clean, arpeggiated guitar part. Practice this section slowly to ensure each note rings out clearly. Pay attention to the dynamics, varying your attack to create a sense of ebb and flow.

Body and Blood

"Body and Blood" showcases Ghost's ability to blend melody with heavier elements. Pay attention to the following aspects:

• Main Riff: This riff is the backbone of the song. Practice it slowly at first, focusing on accuracy and timing. Gradually increase the tempo as you become more comfortable. Pay attention to the palm-muting to create a tight, punchy sound.
• Pre-Chorus: The pre-chorus features a series of power chords that build tension leading into the chorus. Strum these chords with authority, letting them ring out. Focus on creating a sense of anticipation.
• Chorus: The chorus is where the song really shines. Strum the chords with passion, letting them ring out. Focus on creating a wall of sound to match the epic scale of the chorus. This section is all about energy and emotion, so don't be afraid to let loose.
• Solo: The guitar solo in "Body and Blood" is melodic and soaring. Practice bending the notes accurately and smoothly. Pay attention to the vibrato to add character to your playing. This solo is all about feel, so don't be afraid to inject your own personality into it.

Tips for a Great Cover

Here are some tips to help you create a killer guitar cover of Infestissumam:

• Listen Carefully: This might seem obvious, but really listen to the original tracks. Pay attention to the nuances in the guitar parts, the tone, and the overall arrangement. The more familiar you are with the original, the better your cover will be.
• Practice Slowly: Don't rush the learning process. Start by practicing each section slowly, focusing on accuracy and timing. Gradually increase the tempo as you become more comfortable. This will help you build a solid foundation and avoid developing bad habits.
• Nail the Tone: Tone is crucial for capturing the essence of Ghost’s sound. Experiment with different amp settings, pedals, and EQ to get as close as possible to the original tone. Don't be afraid to spend time tweaking your gear to achieve the desired sound.
• Add Your Own Flair: While it's important to stay true to the original, don't be afraid to add your own personality to the cover. Experiment with different phrasing, dynamics, and embellishments to make the song your own. This will help you stand out and create a unique interpretation of the song.
• Record Cleanly: If you're recording your cover, make sure to capture a clean, clear recording. Use a good microphone and interface, and pay attention to your levels. A well-recorded cover will sound more professional and polished.
• Mix and Master: Once you've recorded your cover, take the time to mix and master it properly. This will help you balance the levels of each instrument, add EQ and compression, and create a polished final product. There are plenty of tutorials and resources available online to help you with mixing and mastering.
• Get Feedback: Share your cover with friends, fellow musicians, or online communities and ask for feedback. Constructive criticism can help you identify areas for improvement and make your cover even better. Be open to suggestions and use them to refine your performance.

Final Thoughts

Covering Ghost's Infestissumam is a rewarding experience for any guitarist. It challenges you to explore different techniques, experiment with tone, and dive into the dark and epic world of Ghost. With the right gear, practice, and attention to detail, you can create a guitar cover that’s both faithful to the original and uniquely your own. So grab your guitar, tune up, and start shredding! Remember, the key is to have fun and let your passion for music shine through. Good luck, and may the dark lord be with you!