Tuning Overview

This unique guitar tuning, named Two Moons, derives its name and character from the intricate soundscapes found in the song "Two Moons" by the acclaimed Japanese band Toe. Known for their math-rock and post-rock influences, Toe often employs unconventional tunings to achieve their signature sparkling, arpeggiated, and harmonically rich textures.

Technical Analysis

The open string notes for this tuning are E2, G3#, D3, F4#, B3, D5# (from the low E string to the high E string). This configuration presents a fascinating and complex harmonic landscape. While not an open major or minor chord across all strings, it contains strong chordal elements and distinct intervallic patterns:

• The 6th (E2), 5th (G3#), and 2nd (B3) strings, when played together, clearly outline an E Major triad, providing a strong harmonic anchor within the tuning.
• The intervals between some non-adjacent strings are notably wide, such as the span from E2 to G3# (an octave and a major third, +15 semitones) and D3 to F4# (also an octave and a major third, +15 semitones). This creates a very open, resonant, and expansive sound, ideal for arpeggiated patterns and ringing chord voicings.
• A significant technical characteristic is the repetitive pattern of intervals between adjacent strings: +15 semitones (Octave + M3), then -7 semitones (Perfect 5th down), then +15 semitones, -7 semitones, and finally +15 semitones. This highly structured yet wide-ranging intervallic design is a hallmark of this tuning, lending itself to unique melodic and harmonic possibilities across the fretboard.
• The combination of the E Major components (E, G#, B) with D3, F4#, and D5# suggests a more extended or modal harmony. The D3 (natural D) against an E root can evoke a Mixolydian feel or a dominant chord quality, while the F4# (F sharp) adds further color. This complex interplay allows for rich, ambient chord voicings and intricate melodic phrases that would be challenging or impossible to achieve in standard tuning.

This tuning is ideal for advanced players exploring unique tonal textures, complex arpeggios, and percussive or tapping techniques often associated with the math-rock genre. It encourages a fresh approach to chord shapes and scales, moving beyond conventional forms to unlock new creative avenues.

How to Tune Your Guitar to Two Moons

To achieve the 'Two Moons' tuning from standard EADGBe, follow these precise adjustments for each string:

• String 6 (Low E string): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones). The string remains at E2.
• String 5 (A string): Tune down 1 semitone. The string will now be at G3#.
• String 4 (D string): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones). The string remains at D3.
• String 3 (G string): Tune down 1 semitone. The string will now be at F4#.
• String 2 (B string): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones). The string remains at B3.
• String 1 (High E string): Tune down 1 semitone. The string will now be at D5#.

All specified movements (-1 or 0 semitones) are minimal according to the instructions provided, which generally do not necessitate a change in string gauge. However, it's important for guitarists to be aware that some target pitches (e.g., G3# for the A string) represent an overall octave shift from the standard tuning note for that string, even with small semitone adjustments. Always tune slowly and carefully, ensuring your instrument's tension is appropriate for the final desired pitch.

String 6 (Low E): E2

String 5 (A string): G3#

String 4 (D string): D3

String 3 (G string): F4#

String 2 (B string): B3

String 1 (High E): D5#