Tuning Analysis: Sleep Token - The Summoning (8 String)

This is an incredibly low and distinct 8-string tuning, specifically crafted for the Sleep Token song "The Summoning". As an 8-string tuning, it pushes the boundaries of conventional guitar range, diving deep into the sub-bass frequencies. The core characteristic of this tuning lies in its heavily dropped and unison/octave-doubled low end, followed by a series of mostly perfect fourths in the upper register.

Technical Breakdown:

• The lowest four strings are tuned to a unique pattern of D♯2, G♯2, D♯2, G♯2. This means the 8th and 6th strings are tuned to the exact same D♯2 note, creating a powerful unison and incredible thickness. Similarly, the 7th and 5th strings are both tuned to G♯2, providing another layer of unison and perfect fourth harmony with the D♯ notes. This quadrupled D♯ and G♯ foundation is designed for maximum sonic impact, delivering a massive, resonant low end.
• Moving to the higher four strings, the tuning progresses as C♯3, F♯3, A♯3, D♯4. The intervals are predominantly perfect fourths (G♯2 to C♯3, C♯3 to F♯3, A♯3 to D♯4), with one notable deviation: the interval between the 3rd string (F♯3) and the 2nd string (A♯3) is a Major 3rd. This slight variation from a strict all-fourths tuning adds a touch of melodic character and may facilitate certain chord voicings or lead lines.
• The overall tonal center is clearly D♯, with G♯ acting as a prominent perfect fourth above it, creating a natural power chord foundation.

Verbal Analysis & Chords:

This tuning creates a profoundly heavy and dark soundscape, perfect for the style of music Sleep Token produces. The unison D♯2 and G♯2 strings provide an exceptionally thick and resonant foundation, ideal for crushing, low-register riffs and powerful, droning passages. Open strumming of the lowest four strings will immediately yield a monstrous D♯5 power chord (D♯ and G♯).

Due to the prevalence of perfect fourth intervals, particularly in the lower strings and most of the upper strings, playing power chords across adjacent strings will be very intuitive. For instance, fretting any two adjacent strings (where the interval is a P4) at the same fret will produce a power chord. The unique F♯3 to A♯3 Major 3rd interval means that standard open major/minor chord shapes might require adjustment, but it can also open up interesting opportunities for unique voicings and melodic embellishments. The open tuning itself doesn't form a simple major or minor chord, but the strong D♯-G♯ relationship allows for easy construction of heavy riffs and extended power chords.

The massive drop in pitch across most strings suggests that this tuning is designed for maximum impact and a deeply guttural tone, pushing the guitar into almost bass-like territory for certain applications.

How to Tune:

To achieve this specific tuning, you will need to adjust your strings as follows. Please note that several strings require significant downward tuning, exceeding 4 semitones. For such extreme changes, it is strongly recommended to use a heavier gauge string set to prevent string breakage, maintain proper tension, and ensure good intonation. Proceed with caution.

• String 8 (Lowest): Tune down 3 semitones to D♯2.
• String 7: Tune down 3 semitones to G♯2.
• String 6: Tune down 13 semitones to D♯2. Warning: This is a very large drop. A heavier gauge string is advised.
• String 5: Tune down 13 semitones to G♯2. Warning: This is a very large drop. A heavier gauge string is advised.
• String 4: Tune down 13 semitones to C♯3. Warning: This is a very large drop. A heavier gauge string is advised.
• String 3: Tune down 13 semitones to F♯3. Warning: This is a very large drop. A heavier gauge string is advised.
• String 2: Tune down 13 semitones to A♯3. Warning: This is a very large drop. A heavier gauge string is advised.
• String 1 (Highest): Tune down 13 semitones to D♯4. Warning: This is a very large drop. A heavier gauge string is advised.