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Related Music Theory Alchemy

The chord progression in Weezer’s “Perfect Situation” is a simple and repetitive progression that cycles through three chords, G, D, and Am, with D being used as a transitional or “passing” chord. This progression is based on the I – V – ii structure in the key of G major.

“Island in the Sun” by Weezer is a popular song that features a simple and catchy chord progression. The intro progression creates a pleasant and comforting atmosphere, and it sets up the laid-back, summer vibe of the song. The chords are primarily diatonic to the key of G major, except for the borrowed chord from the parallel minor. The progression is quite common in pop and rock music, and it shares similarities with other famous songs.

“Girl” by The Beatles is a classic example of their use of chromatic harmony and modal interchange. The chord progression shows complexity in both its chord choices and structure, a distinguishing feature in much of their music. By closely examining this piece, we can better understand The Beatles’ harmonic technique where they blend the techniques of classical music (like chromaticism and harmonic diversity) with pop songwriting.

This particular section is mostly based in the key of F major and highlights Freddie Mercury’s love for moving from the classical I-ii-V progression to the jazz-inspired I-IV-ii-V, often followed by a jazzy II-V-I. In this part of the song, you will find some interesting use of borrowed chords and leading tones, contributing to the chromaticism that enriches the progression.

“Bullet With Butterfly Wings” by The Smashing Pumpkins is a rock song that alternates between heavy distortion and calm sections. Interestingly, the song is mostly in E minor, but uses a lot of power chords (5th chords) and sus2 chords which give the song a distinctively undecided, floating feeling, as these chords don’t have a clear major or minor character. The song uses a rather straightforward progression with a few deviations and embellishments which provide tension and release.

Weezer – Perfect Situation – Bridge

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Chord Progression

Em, Bm, C, D, Em, Bm, C, D

Chord Progression Analysis

E minor (i) – B minor (iv) – C major (VII) – D major (VIII)
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Em (i) – Bm (iv) – C (∨II) – D (∨III)
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Similar Chord Progressions

1. Green Day – “Wake Me Up When September Ends”
E minor (i) – C major (VII) – G major (III) – D major (VIII)
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Em (i) – C (∨II) – G (∨III) – D (∨III)
“`

2. Nirvana – “Come As You Are”
E minor (i) – G major (III) – D major (VIII) – A major (IV)
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Em (i) – G (∨III) – D (∨III) – A (∨I)
“`

3. Oasis – “Wonderwall”
E minor (i) – G major (III) – D major (VIII) – A7 (IV7)
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Em (i) – G (∨III) – D (∨III) – A7 (∨I7)
“`

These songs share similarities with the chord progression found in the bridge of “Perfect Situation” by Weezer, using a mix of major and minor chords, and with some chords borrowed from parallel modes or other related keys. The blend of tension and resolution and the use of Dorian elements make these progressions engaging and contribute to the overall appeal of the songs in the rock and alternative genres.

Musical Analysis

The chord progression features the tonic E minor chord, providing a sense of resolution. The B minor chord functions as the subdominant (iv) and adds a flavor of tension and melancholy to the progression. The C major and D major chords are borrowed from the E Dorian mode, which gives a more uplifting and bright sound compared to standard E Aeolian mode. These two chords lead back to the E minor chord, providing a sense of resolution in the progression.

Overall Analysis

“Perfect Situation” by Weezer is a rock song with a combination of major and minor chords, giving it a feeling of both tension and resolution. The chord progression in the bridge features a i-iv-VII-VIII pattern in the key of E minor, which is common in rock and pop music. The bridge consists mainly of triads with some possible extensions or added notes depending on how they are voiced.

Style Analysis

The bridge of “Perfect Situation” showcases Weezer’s ability to craft catchy melodies and progressions that are typical of alternative rock and power-pop styles. The use of the E Dorian mode helps create an uplifting sound that contrasts with some of the darker tones found in the verses and remains a staple in the band’s music. This blend of major and minor chords also adds variety and interest to their songwriting.

Chords in the Bridge section of Perfect Situation by Weezer are:

Em, Bm, C, D, Em, Bm, C, D