“Gewerbegebiet”

An audio recording of “Gewerbegebiet” is available on Leo Kottke/Try and Stop Me (RCA 82876-60645-2, 2004). This transcription corresponds to the recording with the exception of a few minor revisions which bring it in line with Leo’s current performance practice. On this recording Leo plays a 12-string guitar tuned Bb1 Eb2 Bb2 Eb3 G3 Bb3. This is, of course, analogous to open G tuning (D2 G2 D3 G3 B3 D4). He tunes his 12-string down so that there is less tension on the neck. It also sounds good down there, and it is easier to play.

When the guitar is tuned to open G tuning, or any of its analogues, it is generally sounding in the key of G, or the key of the pitch of the open fifth string. But you will notice that “Gewerbegebiet” does not sound in the major key of Eb which you might have generally anticipated from the tuning, but rather in Bb minor. This fresh approach provides an unusual structural framework for the composition — it brings forth new sounds. And it also utilizes some chord forms that you may not have played before.