The 'ghosts and vodka' tuning is a unique and evocative variant, described as "open D with high E". It establishes a powerful Open D foundation, combining it with the brightness of a standard high E string. This creates a fascinating sonic landscape, blending deep resonance with familiar melodic possibilities.

Verbal Analysis

This tuning offers a rich, full-bodied sound characteristic of Open D, often found in blues, folk, and slide guitar styles. The retention of the standard high E (E4) on the first string is a distinctive feature. While the lower strings provide a droning, resonant quality, the high E allows for the use of familiar melodic patterns and provides a bright counterpoint. The overall effect can be both haunting and expansive, suggesting atmospheric soundscapes suitable for ethereal, melancholic, or even stark compositions, living up to its intriguing name. It invites exploration of open harmonies and powerful bass lines.

Technical Analysis

• The open strings are tuned to D2-A2-D3-F4#-A3-E4.
• When strummed open, this tuning produces a D major chord (D-F#-A) with an added E (the 9th) on the first string. This creates a lush, resonant Dadd9 (Dmaj(add9)) sound, providing a full and harmonious open chord.
• The lower strings (D2-A2-D3) establish a strong, fundamental D-A-D power chord, perfect for rhythmic drive or resonant drones.
• The inclusion of the F4# (String 3) within the D major triad makes D major shapes very accessible simply by barring across the neck. For example, barring all strings at the 1st fret would yield a D#add9, and at the 2nd fret, an Eadd9.
• The high E (E4) string serves as a familiar anchor point for lead playing and can create interesting intervallic relationships with the D major harmony of the lower strings, offering a blend of traditional and open tuning characteristics.

How to Tune (from Standard EADGBe)

Please note: All string movements are within safe ranges for standard string gauges (generally movements exceeding 4 semitones up or down advise a different gauge). For String 3, please be aware there might be a discrepancy between the tuning instructions and the final listed note; follow the instructions below for tuning:

• String 6 (Low E): Tune down 2 semitones to D2. (From standard E2)
• String 5 (A): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones) to A2. (From standard A2)
• String 4 (D): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones) to D3. (From standard D3)
• String 3 (G): Tune down 1 semitone to F#3. (From standard G3)
• String 2 (B): Tune down 2 semitones to A3. (From standard B3)
• String 1 (High E): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones) to E4. (From standard E4)

String 6: D2

String 5: A2

String 4: D3

String 3: F4#

String 2: A3

String 1: E4