This month’s column focuses on an original composition of mine that acknowledges the influence of classical pianists on my playing style, specifically the way in which pianists will play arpeggios across several octaves very quickly (see FIGURE 1). In order to emulate that sound on the guitar, I’ve devised a few fretboard tapping techniques. In fact, much of my two-hand tapping technique is based on that goal and approach.

Check out this just-posted (October 31) video of Zakk Wylde performing a solo, acoustic version of Black Label Society's "Lovin' Woman."

Here's one we've been saving for Halloween! In the video below, check out Geezer Butler and Ozzy Osbourne's recent visit to Black Sabbath 13 3D, a spooky, Sabbath-themed maze that's part of this year's Universal Studios Hollywood's Halloween Horror Nights.

I’m talking about the unmistakable signature graphics on the guitars of “Mr. Scary," A.K.A. George Lynch. But the graphics are not nearly as recognizable as Lynch’s frighteningly unique phrasing, tone and vibrato. Since the early 1980s, soulful shred Sensei George Lynch has challenged the boundaries of his abilities, constantly evolved with the times and kept his playing fresh.