bending backwards- technique and when to use it

[notesfromhell]

Usually when bending notes, you bend up the strings towards the ceiling. But I have noticed guitar players occasionally bending the g string backwards, such as Marty Friedman on the Symphony of Destruction solo. I know it's more practically to do quarter step bends backwards on the lower strings, but does bending the third string backward give it a different sound than bending it normally? What tips would you give for bending the G string backwards? Is it practical to bending the b string backward or is there not enough room? I guess people bend the g string backwards, when doing kind of a slow bend to give it a different sound?

 

[Lazarus1140]

Re: bending backwards- technique and when to use it

I think that it is easier for many players to add vibrato when pulling a string ... that is, where the fretboard allows bending a string down.

Personally, I push everything up except the E and A.

 

[GuitarStv]

Re: bending backwards- technique and when to use it

I used to bend everything towards the floor when I started playing. It just seemed easier and more natural to me (well, except when the high E and B strings slipped off the fretboard). It words OK for G string bends, and controlling vibrato seemed a lot easier this way. Much like Laz, I only do it for the low E and A strings now though.

 

[Phantasmagoria]

Re: bending backwards- technique and when to use it

I bend strings both ways but favour pulling down towards the floor (except the high E & A). I find it gives me more control that way and vibrato is easier/comes naturally...

 

[Quencho092]

Re: bending backwards- technique and when to use it

ME gusta the pre-bending then picking and release. Sounds like crying =(