TL;DR: How to Play Pluto Projector on Guitar
To learn how to play Pluto Projector on guitar, you must master the soulful Rex Orange County chord progression, which revolves around jazz-influenced extended chords like Fmaj9, Em7, and Dm7. The song is played in standard tuning with a focus on a smooth, rhythmic strumming pattern that mimics the track’s laid-back, groovy feel.
Key elements for success:
- Chords: Focus on mastering seventh and ninth chords for that signature “lush” sound.
- Technique: Use fingerstyle or a light plectrum to emphasize the dynamics.
- Vibe: Prioritize swing feel over strict metronomic precision.
Understanding the Chords and Vibe
“Pluto Projector” is a masterpiece of modern pop songwriting, blending elements of soul, jazz, and indie pop. When learning how to play Pluto Projector on guitar, you are not just memorizing shapes; you are learning how to create a “velvety” harmonic texture.
The track relies heavily on maj7 and m7 chords. These chords provide the necessary tension and release that define the song’s emotional core.
Essential Chord Shapes
You will need to be comfortable with barre chords and non-standard shapes. If you are a beginner, treat these as an opportunity to level up your left-hand strength.
| Chord | Finger Positioning | Sound Profile |
|---|---|---|
| Fmaj9 | Index on 8th fret (A string) | Open, dreamy |
| Em7 | Barring 7th fret | Mellow, rhythmic |
| Dm7 | Barring 5th fret | Soulful, bluesy |
| Cmaj7 | Standard open shape | Bright, resolving |
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Play Pluto Projector on Guitar
Learning this song requires breaking it down into logical, manageable sections. I recommend spending at least 20 minutes on each step to ensure muscle memory is locked in.
Step 1: Mastering the Main Progression
The core of the song is a repeating loop. Start by playing the chords in a simple down-down-up-up-down pattern.
Don’t worry about the syncopation yet. Just focus on clean transitions between the Fmaj9 and the Em7.
Step 2: Adding the “Swing”
The secret to how to play Pluto Projector on guitar accurately is the “swing” feel. In music theory, this means playing the eighth notes with a slight delay on the second half of the beat.
- Think of it as a “long-short” rhythm rather than perfectly even beats.
- Practice by tapping your foot to the beat before even touching the guitar.
- Once you feel the groove, incorporate the chords slowly.
Step 3: Focusing on Dynamics
The song grows in intensity. Early in the verse, keep your strumming very light and muted. As you approach the bridge, open up your hand and increase the volume.
This dynamic contrast is what makes Rex Orange County’s music so engaging to listen to. Use your palm to gently mute the strings during the verses for a percussive effect.
Pro-Tips for Perfecting Your Tone
Your gear setup matters when chasing that Pluto Projector sound. You don’t need expensive equipment, but you do need the right settings.
Effects Settings
If you are playing through an amplifier or a digital interface, try these settings:
- Reverb: Set to “Hall” or “Plate” to give the guitar a sense of space.
- Chorus: A subtle amount of chorus adds that “shimmer” heard on the original recording.
- EQ: Roll off the treble slightly if you are using an electric guitar with single-coil pickups to avoid a harsh tone.
Common Challenges and Solutions
Many players struggle with the chord transitions because the shapes feel “stretchy.” Here is how I overcame these hurdles when I first learned the song:
- Finger Fatigue: If your hand hurts, stop. You are likely pressing too hard. Practice pressing only as hard as needed to make the note ring clearly.
- Muted Strings: Use the tip of your fingers, not the pads, to ensure you aren’t accidentally muting adjacent strings.
- Tempo Issues: Use a metronome set to 60% of the original speed. Increase the tempo by 5 BPM only once you can play the section perfectly five times in a row.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is Pluto Projector difficult to play on guitar?
It is an intermediate-level song. While the chord shapes are not overly complex, the rhythmic swing and syncopation require a good sense of timing to sound professional.
What is the best tuning for this song?
The original recording is in standard tuning (E A D G B E). You do not need to alter your guitar’s tuning to play along with the track.
Do I need a capo to play Pluto Projector?
No, a capo is not required. The song’s chords are designed to be played in standard position, allowing for the lush, open-string sounds that characterize the track.
Can I play this on an acoustic guitar?
Absolutely. While the studio version uses electric guitar, Pluto Projector sounds fantastic on an acoustic guitar. Use a lighter touch to maintain that intimate, “bedroom-pop” aesthetic.
