Verbal Analysis

"Algernon" is a unique and highly experimental tuning, explicitly linked to the intricate and often dissonant sounds of math rock and midwest emo, as inspired by bands like Algernon Cadwallader. It pushes the boundaries of conventional guitar playing, offering a sonic landscape rich in wide intervals and surprising harmonic relationships.

The most striking feature of this tuning is the exceptionally high pitch of the second string (B string), which is targeted at C5#. This creates a very bright, almost piercing quality that stands out dramatically against the other strings. The combination of a dropped low D, a raised fourth string to E, and this super high C# (or C5# if achieved) opens up possibilities for shimmering arpeggios, complex open voicings, and the signature angular melodies often heard in the genres it's associated with. Players can expect a tuning that feels both familiar in its lower registers (D-A) yet utterly alien in its upper registers, demanding an explorative approach to chord shapes and lead lines.

Technical Analysis

The open notes for "Algernon" tuning are D2-A2-E3-G3-C5#-E4, from low to high string.

• Low D Foundation: The 6th string is tuned down a full step to D2, providing a deep, resonant foundation often found in drop tunings.
• Perfect Fifths on Lower Strings: The interval between the 6th (D2) and 5th (A2) strings is a perfect fifth. The interval between the 5th (A2) and 4th (E3) strings is also a perfect fifth. This creates a powerful, open sound on the lowest three strings (D-A-E), reminiscent of power chords.
• Minor Third Jump: From the 4th string (E3) to the 3rd string (G3) is a minor third, adding a bluesy or melancholic flavor.
• Extreme Pitch and Inverted Upper Register: The 2nd string is targeted at an astonishing C5#. This note is two octaves and a major third above the standard B3. Crucially, C5# is even significantly higher than the 1st string (E4). This extreme pitch, coupled with the 1st string (E4) being lower than the 2nd string (C5#), creates a highly unusual and inverted string order in the upper register. This requires careful consideration of string gauge and tension.

Open Chords and Harmonic Possibilities

Strumming all open strings (D-A-E-G-C#-E) produces a very rich and complex cluster of notes: D, A, E, G, C#. When arranged, these notes form a D major 7th chord with an added 9th and 4th (D E G A C#). This is not a common open chord, but rather a sophisticated voicing that lends itself to atmospheric and harmonically dense playing.

• Lower Register Power: The D2-A2-E3 open strings allow for powerful D5 or Dsus2 voicings, providing a solid, resonant base.
• Suspensory Nature: The open G3 (3rd string) creates suspended harmonies with the D and A, offering a sense of openness and irresolution.
• Sharp Dissonance & Brightness: The C5# on the 2nd string introduces a very high and sharp major seventh (relative to D) or a #11 (relative to G) quality. This is ideal for creating tension, sparkle, and the distinctive 'mathy' voicings.
• Inverted Upper Strings: The E4 (1st string) being lower than C5# (2nd string) offers unique melodic and harmonic possibilities, allowing for inverted arpeggios and voicings that are difficult or impossible in standard tuning. This characteristic is particularly useful for math rock's intricate, interweaving lines.

How to Tune

To achieve the "Algernon" tuning, start from standard EADGBE tuning and follow these adjustments:

• String 6 (Low E): Tune down 2 semitones (a whole step) to D2.
• String 5 (A): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones) to A2.
• String 4 (D): Tune up 2 semitones (a whole step) to E3.
• String 3 (G): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones) to G3.
• String 2 (B): Tune up 2 semitones. This instruction leads to C#4 from standard B3. However, please note: the target note for this tuning is specified as C5# in the tuning notes. C5# is significantly higher than C#4 and would require a much larger semitone adjustment from standard B3 (14 semitones up). Tuning to C5# will necessitate a very light gauge string and extreme caution to prevent string breakage. If you strictly follow the "tune up 2 semitones" instruction, your string will be C#4, not C5#. Consider your string gauge and instrument limitations carefully.
• String 1 (High E): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones) to E4.

Disclaimer: Tuning up more than 4 semitones from standard pitch or down more than 4 semitones may require a different gauge string to maintain optimal tension and prevent damage to your instrument. For String 2, if aiming for C5# as specified, a significantly lighter gauge string than a standard B string is strongly advised due to the extreme pitch. Proceed with caution.