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Very harsh lyrics against a really hard driving beat sounds harsh by nature. Putting the exact same lyrics against a soft and sweet chord progression sounds like a completely different song. There is a clear contrast between harsh lyrics and a sweet melody. One lesson here is to try different things that may not seem to readily go together.

Contrast is the way one thing plays off another. A gritty lead over a sweet sounding progression. Luster happens when there are many balances and contrasts existing between different elements in each and every song or performance.

It comes out in the details and is almost inseparable from contrast. There are a lot of good guitarist out there, a lot of good performers and a lot of good bands. When you see someone that is so good they seem downright great, its probably based a lot on the fact that their sound keeps you interested. They keep drawing your attention to them, in a good way.

Contrast and luster draw attention in and keeps it coming back for more. Its the little things that really do this. A little harmony guitar part, harmonics, a nice tight break, different chord voicings, a different amp setting, a different guitar. All are things when used properly, keep the audience and the players as well interested in what's going on.