I do mainly chord shapes when playing backup or improv at jams. In an effort to become a more efficient fretter during those fast songs, I've been exploring 2-3 note bar chords, such as 7th fret bar D/A (in standard G tuning). I find that instead of going to an index or ring finger bar to fret all 4 notes at fret 7, I can fret only 3 of the notes while keeping my fingers vertical like the F and D shape chords and keep my pinky on the first string (where the other 2 shapes have it). I fret 4(7) A 3(7) D 2(0) B 1(7) A, creating a sort of D6 or D5/6 chord that sounds pretty good.
I also find that if I want to hit a melody note position say at E at the 14th fret, and I am in G with 4(12) D 3(0) G 2(0) B 1(12) D, I can use a C chord at frets 12-14: 4(14) E 3(12) G 2(13) C 1(14) E to get that passing tone (while staying in a chord shaped form).
Any other tips and tricks out there?
I've found when making chords for backup, you can get more economy of motion when going from a closed G chord down the neck to a C chord, all you have to do is flatten your ring finger on the 5th fret. Your fingers are then in a position to release that barr chord and play any other major chord with very little movement.
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