How to make drop-tuned open strings feel like a hook instead of a drone.
The open sixth string is a bass drum and a pedal tone. If you hit it on every downbeat, the song marches. If you park it on the off-beats, the song leans forward — that lean is metalcore.
Mute is the grid, open is the melody
Keep 16th chugs running. Release the palm on chosen off-beats so the open 5 rings for a 16th or an 8th, then clamp it again. The left hand does not have to move. The right hand is doing the writing.
Off-beat rings (X = open 5, x = mute)
1 e & a 2 e & a 3 e & a 4 e & a x x X - x x - X x x X - x - X -
Clap the X's first. If you cannot clap them, you cannot play them. Then put the guitar on the claps and fill the rest with mutes.