The Old Man Gloom A# Tuning

This is a detailed analysis of the "Old Man Gloom A#" tuning for Guitar. As indicated by its name and description, this tuning is notably utilized in some Old Man Gloom (OMG) songs, such as "Common Species." It's a prime example of a tuning designed for exceptionally low, heavy, and aggressive sonic textures, typical of sludge, doom, and extreme metal genres.

Technical Analysis

The open strings are tuned to A#2 F2 A#3 D3 F#4 A#4. Analyzing the intervals relative to the lowest A# (A#2), this tuning features a unique and powerful harmonic structure:

• 6th String (A#2): This is the fundamental root note, establishing an incredibly deep and resonant foundation for the tuning.
• 5th String (F2): A perfect fifth (P5) above the root A#. Together with the 6th string, this forms a powerful, open A# power chord (A#5).
• 4th String (A#3): An octave (8va) above the lowest root (A#2), further reinforcing the fundamental frequency and adding thickness. The lowest three strings (A#2-F2-A#3) thus provide a very full and resonant A# power chord for heavy riffing.
• 3rd String (D3): A major third (M3) above the lowest root (A#2). This interval introduces a major quality to the underlying harmonic feel.
• 2nd String (F#4): An augmented fifth (Aug5) or minor sixth (m6) above the lowest root (A#2). This interval, especially when combined with the major third (D), creates a rich, dissonant, and dark harmonic color. It moves the tuning beyond a simple major or minor chord, providing a unique tension and heaviness.
• 1st String (A#4): Another octave (8va) above the lowest root (A#2), completing the full, resonant voicing and providing high-end clarity for lead work or chord extensions.

This arrangement is not a conventional open major or minor chord but rather a sophisticated voicing that delivers a dense, sludgy, and aggressive sonic landscape. The strong low-end A# power chord is immediately accessible, making it ideal for powerful, driving rhythms. The interplay of the major third and augmented fifth creates harmonic possibilities that are both rich and foreboding, characteristic of the band's sound.

How to Tune

Achieving this exceptionally low tuning from standard EADGBe (E2 A2 D3 G3 B3 E4) requires significant downward adjustments across all strings. Please exercise extreme caution when performing these large drops in pitch. For any string movement of 4 semitones or more (either up or down), a different, heavier gauge string set is strongly advised. This will help maintain adequate string tension, improve intonation, prevent string breakage, and avoid potential damage to your instrument's neck or bridge.

• 6th String (Low E): Tune down 6 semitones to A#2. (Warning: This is a substantial drop; a heavier gauge string is strongly advised.)
• 5th String (A): Tune down 4 semitones to F2. (Warning: This is a significant drop; a heavier gauge string is advised.)
• 4th String (D): Tune down 4 semitones to A#3. (Warning: This is a significant drop; a heavier gauge string is advised.)
• 3rd String (G): Tune down 5 semitones to D3. (Warning: This is a substantial drop; a heavier gauge string is strongly advised.)
• 2nd String (B): Tune down 5 semitones to F#4. (Warning: This is a substantial drop; a heavier gauge string is strongly advised.)
• 1st String (High E): Tune down 6 semitones to A#4. (Warning: This is a substantial drop; a heavier gauge string is strongly advised.)