Tuning Analysis: Kissing in Cars

This is the 'Kissing in Cars' tuning for Guitar, originally used for the track "Kissing in Cars (Bonus Track)" by Pierce the Veil.

Verbal Description

This tuning offers a unique sonic landscape, leaning towards a deep, resonant quality with a strong drone element, particularly from the unison D notes on the high strings. The lower strings provide a weighty foundation, giving it a somewhat dark and introspective feel, suitable for atmospheric and emotive compositions. The overall sound is rich and full, perfect for creating layered textures and captivating soundscapes.

Technical Analysis

The open string notes for this tuning are D2 G2 C3 D3 D4 D4. This creates an interesting intervallic structure: Root (D), Perfect 4th (G), Minor 7th (C), Octave (D), Octave (D), Octave (D). While not forming a standard open major or minor triad, the tuning effectively provides a complex Dsus4(add C) voicing across the lower strings (D-G-C-D), crowned by a powerful D drone from the unison D notes on the 3rd, 2nd, and 1st strings.

The consistent D drone across the top three strings makes this tuning particularly versatile for melodic lead work and fingerstyle playing, allowing the high D to ring out consistently. Open chords will naturally take on a suspended and minor 7th quality due to the G and C notes. Chords like a Dsus4 or D minor 7th will be easily accessible, and barre chords will produce unique voicings that leverage the droning high D notes. This setup encourages creative chord shapes and resonant, sustained tones, making it ideal for experimental or emotionally charged compositions.

How to Tune

To achieve the 'Kissing in Cars' tuning from standard EADGBe (E2 A2 D3 G3 B3 E4), follow these steps:

• 6th String (Low E): Tune down 2 semitones to D2. (Note: This is a moderate adjustment.)
• 5th String (A): Tune down 2 semitones to G2. (Note: This is a moderate adjustment.)
• 4th String (D): Tune down 2 semitones to C3. (Note: This is a moderate adjustment.)
• 3rd String (G): Tune down 5 semitones to D3. (Caution: Tuning down 5 semitones is a significant drop in tension. For optimal tone, intonation, and to prevent string floppiness, it is strongly advised to consider using a heavier gauge string for the 3rd string when playing in this tuning frequently.)
• 2nd String (B): Tune up 3 semitones to D4. (Caution: Tuning up 3 semitones is a moderate increase in string tension. Ensure your guitar's neck and strings can safely handle the additional tension. Always tune up slowly.)
• 1st String (High E): Tune down 2 semitones to D4. (Note: This is a moderate adjustment.)

6th String: D2

5th String: G2

4th String: C3

3rd String: D3

2nd String: D4

1st String: D4