Transcribing Notes From John Neil (Head Transcriber)
Brain Stew – Green Day – Song Breakdown
Melody
An interesting song structure in this one – with 4 verses and no choruses. What works as a sort of chorus are the (what I called) “interludes” between the verses where the groove rocks more. From what singer/songwriter Billie Joe Armstrong says, this song is a bout “methamphetamine, not being able to sleep, and staying up all night.” The basic vocal range is Ab3-F4, though Billie Joe starts lots of the lines lower making it actually Ab2-F4.
Download the Melody Music Here
Keyboard
There isn’t a keyboard part in this song, so I made up a part calling for electric piano, which would blend in the best, though piano (or any other keyboard for that matter) would work. It basically doubles the guitar parts.
Download the Keyboard Sheet Music Here
Rhythm/Lead Guitar
There isn’t really a lead guitar part in this, so I called both guitars rhythm/lead. Lots of power chords, and muted strum “chug-a” parts. There are a few guitar parts in the recording (more in the outro), and I tried to represent most of the sounds I could hear.
Download the Lead Guitar Tab Here
Download the Rhythm Guitar Tab Here
Strum Guitar
There isn’t really a strum guitar part, so a part was made up. It contains lots of 16th note strums and muted string “chug-a” parts along with the electric guitars.
Download the Strum Tab Here
Bass
A bass part played quite aggressively with a pick, with a sort of “harsh” tone – a bit overdriven. Lots of octave work as well.
Download the Bass Tab Here
Drums
A pretty basic drum part with lots of 16th note bass drum work. Play it loud!
Download the Drum Music Here
Download the Lead Sheet Here
