This unique tuning, famously adopted by Boyce Avenue for their rendition of Imagine Dragons' "Demons," delivers a profoundly deep and resonant soundscape. Its low register, dominated by C notes, creates a foundation of immense power and emotional depth, perfectly suited for the cover's atmospheric quality.

Technical Analysis:

The tuning follows a C2 G2 C3 F3 B3 C4 configuration. Compared to standard EADGBe tuning, this is a significantly lowered setup, suggesting a preference for darker tones and heavier string gauges. The lowest three strings (C-G-C) immediately establish a robust C power chord, providing a strong tonal center. The subsequent F3 introduces a perfect fourth, while the jump to B3 creates an augmented fourth (tritone) – a highly distinctive interval that adds tension and harmonic complexity. Finally, the minor second interval between B3 and the highest C4 creates a tightly clustered, almost dissonant, yet melodically rich quality, allowing for unique voicings and leading tones.

Open Chords and Harmonic Possibilities:

• The open C-G-C on the lowest three strings makes power chords in C readily accessible and sonically impactful.
• When strummed open, the full tuning (C G C F B C) creates a complex, rich sonority that could be interpreted as a C-based chord with suspended and major seventh qualities (Cmaj7sus4, or elements of a C Lydian dominant scale).
• The prominent tritone (F3-B3) and minor second (B3-C4) offer distinct melodic and harmonic opportunities, allowing for unique voice leading and expressive harmonies that move beyond traditional major/minor structures.
• Due to the open C notes, chords in the key of C will feel very natural and resonant across the fretboard. Experimentation with open string drones against fretted notes will yield exciting results.

Tuning Notes:

String 6 (Low E String): C2
String 5 (A String): G2
String 4 (D String): C3
String 3 (G String): F3
String 2 (B String): B3
String 1 (High E String): C4

How to Tune:

This tuning involves significant adjustments from standard EADGBe. Please proceed with caution, especially when tuning strings down multiple semitones. For tunings exceeding 4 semitones up or down, a different string gauge is generally recommended to ensure optimal tension and prevent string damage.

• String 6 (Low E to C): Tune down 4 semitones. (Original E2 to C2)
• String 5 (A to G): Tune down 2 semitones. (Original A2 to G2)
• String 4 (D to C): Tune down 2 semitones. (Original D3 to C3)
• String 3 (G to F): Tune down 2 semitones. (Original G3 to F3)
• String 2 (B to B): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones). (Original B3 to B3)
• String 1 (High E to C): Tune down 4 semitones. (Original E4 to C4)