I don’t mean
to get too heavy about this, but as a tribute band we’re looking for every opportunity
to capture what’s authentic. In learning
“I’m So Afraid”, my journey as a recovering addict allows me to make these
lyrics incredibly personal. Phrases like “I’ve been alone all the years, so
many ways to count the tears” and “I’m so afraid I’ll live and I’ll fall and I’ll
die” are not overly dramatic. They are simply honest and true as I look back on
my life before 1995 and getting clean.
The lyrics
are only half the story. The slow, heavy
tempo and use of minor chords give the song a haunting characteristic to match
the painful lyrics. Lindsey drives hard
through two verses and passion-filled choruses before punctuating the song with
an extended guitar solo in classic-rock fashion. Unlike Lindsey, I use a pick for most of my
solos. Nonetheless, this dramatic melody (partially based on pentatonic scale)
allows me build the solo, climbing up the neck toward a crescendo hanging on a
high, screaming bend in classic Lindsey style.
This climax exemplifies the painful release of all the memories and
associated fears that go with being in recovery. As I said, to be authentic I had to make it
mine.
Steve
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