This unique tuning, known as Karnivool BGCGCD, is prominently featured by the band Karnivool in their 'Asymmetry' album, particularly for the song 'Refusal'. It deviates significantly from standard E-standard tuning, offering a deep, resonant foundation ideal for modern progressive and alternative rock.

Verbal Analysis

The tuning establishes a very low and powerful sonic landscape, anchored by the exceptionally deep B1 on the 6th string. This provides an almost baritone-like quality, perfect for heavy, chugging riffs and expansive, atmospheric textures. The repeated G and C notes across the middle strings (G2-C3-G3-C4) create a drone-like quality and allow for rich, open voicings. The high D4 string adds a touch of brightness and allows melodic lines to cut through the dense lower register. Overall, it's a tuning that encourages open, sustained chords and complex rhythmic patterns, moving away from conventional chord shapes towards more interval-based playing.

Technical Analysis

The open tuning is configured as B1-G2-C3-G3-C4-D4 (from low to high string). Let's examine the intervals:

• String 6 (B1) to String 5 (G2): A Minor 6th (8 semitones). This wide interval creates a deep, somewhat dissonant or open feel between the lowest strings, providing a strong low-end tension.
• String 5 (G2) to String 4 (C3): A Perfect 4th (5 semitones).
• String 4 (C3) to String 3 (G3): A Perfect 5th (7 semitones). This creates a strong, resonant interval, often associated with power chords.
• String 3 (G3) to String 2 (C4): A Perfect 4th (5 semitones).
• String 2 (C4) to String 1 (D4): A Major 2nd (2 semitones). This tight interval on the high strings can add tension or a modal flavor, distinct from typical guitar intervals.

The presence of duplicate notes (G on strings 5 & 3, C on strings 4 & 2) significantly impacts playability. This makes it easy to create sustained drone notes and power chords by simply barring across these strings. The open notes B, G, C, D inherently contain elements of a G major chord (G-B-D) with added C notes, giving it a strong Gsus4 character when played together. Specifically, strings 6, 5, 1 (B-G-D) form an open G Major chord in its first inversion. The C-G-C grouping on strings 4, 3, 2 allows for easy C power chords and rich C-based voicings. This tuning is excellent for creating heavy, sustained riffs and complex chord voicings that might be challenging in standard tuning, lending itself well to the band's signature progressive sound.

How to Tune to BGCGCD

To achieve the Karnivool BGCGCD tuning from standard E-A-D-G-B-E, follow these specific string adjustments:

• String 6 (Low E to B1): Tune down 5 semitones. Caution: This is a significant drop. For optimal performance and to prevent issues, a heavier gauge string is advised.
• String 5 (A to G2): Tune down 2 semitones.
• String 4 (D to C3): Tune down 2 semitones.
• String 3 (G to G3): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones).
• String 2 (B to C4): Tune up 1 semitone.
• String 1 (High E to D4): Tune down 2 semitones.

When tuning up or down by more than 4 semitones from standard, it is generally recommended to consider using a different string gauge to ensure optimal string tension, intonation, and to prevent potential string breakage or damage to your instrument. The low E string's drop of 5 semitones to B1 in this tuning is a prime example where a heavier gauge string would be highly beneficial for stability and tone.