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Related Music Theory Alchemy

The chord progression in the chorus of Kali Uchis’ “After The Storm” features a repeating progression of Am7, Bm7, and Eaug that occurs three times, with slight variations in harmony and tonality. It is a unique and interesting progression that creates tension through the use of both minor 7th and augmented chords. The overall style evokes a dreamy, jazzy atmosphere with elements of R&B and soul.

The chord progression in Verse 2 of Kali Uchis’s “After The Storm” is a mix of diatonic and chromatic chords that create an interesting neo-soul groove. The harmony is primarily based on G# minor, featuring the G#m7 and A#m7 as primary chords, and the D#aug chord adds tension and release within the progression. Additionally, the use of the D#aug chord acts as a chromatic mediant between G#m7 and A#m7.

“Closer” by Nine Inch Nails, released in 1994, is a well-known song distinguished by its catchy synth lines, explosive percussion, and provocative lyricism. Hinged on a distinct, repeating synth bassline, the song employs a fundamental chord progression epitomizing the alternative rock and industrial genres. Its tonal centre revolves around the key of C# minor.

The song “The Outsider” by A Perfect Circle has a main key signature of E major, as indicated by the repeated occurrences of the chords B, A, and E. The overall structure is tonal, using chords common in Western music. Some elements of modality are observable though, with the use of the C chord, which in traditional music theory would be considered a borrowed chord from the parallel E minor scale. A sense of tension and release is created through the use of these non-diatonic chords, which ultimately helps to maintain the listener’s interest.

The song seems to have a psychedelic pop/rock vibe reminiscing of the late ’60s and ’70s. The use of major seventh chords and repeated shifting between E Major and D Major hints at a sense of yearning and nostalgia, something that is commonly found in Tame Impala’s music.

Kali Uchis – After The Storm – Pre-Chorus

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Chord Progression

Am7, Bm7, Eaug, Am7, Bm7, Eaug, Am7, Bm7, Eaug, Am7, Bm7, Eaug

Chord Progression Analysis

“`
A minor 7 (i7)
B minor 7 (ii7)
E augmented (V+)
A minor 7 (i7)
B minor 7 (ii7)
E augmented (V+)
A minor 7 (i7)
B minor 7 (ii7)
E augmented (V+)
A minor 7 (i7)
B minor 7 (ii7)
E augmented (V+)
“`

Similar Chord Progressions

1. “Kiss of Life” by Sade:
“`
Am7 (i7)
Bm7 (ii7)
CMaj7 (IIIΔ7)
D9sus4 (IV9sus4)
“`
2. “Seaweed” by Mount Eerie:
“`
Am7 (i7)
Bm7 (ii7)
Dmaj7 (IVΔ7)
Gmaj7 (VIIΔ7)
“`

These examples from other artists both feature the use of Am7 and Bm7 chords, suggesting a shared influence with Kali Uchis’ chord progression in “After The Storm.” However, these other artists choose to resolve the tension created by these chords differently than Kali Uchis, incorporating different chords in their progressions to create a unique sound.

Musical Analysis

The Am7 and Bm7 chords suggest a typical i7-ii7 progression in the minor key. However, the use of the Ea(Raised fifth) chord adds an unexpected and more complex harmonic feel to the music. It can be heard as a V+ chord (dominant augmented), which creates tension and resolves back to the i7 chord, giving the progression a sense of continuous movement and anticipation.

Overall Analysis

The given chord progression is the Pre-Chorus section of “After The Storm” by Kali Uchis. The chords in this progression are predominantly built on the 1st and 2nd degrees of the minor scale. The recurring use of the Eaug chord injects an interesting and stylish twist into the music.

Style Analysis

Kali Uchis’ use of the Eaug chord demonstrates her inclination towards experimenting with harmony and employing non-diatonic chords in her music. Furthermore, the repetition of this distinctive sequence gives the pre-chorus a strong sense of identity within the context of the overall song.

Chords in the Pre-chorus section of After The Storm by Kali Uchis are:

Am7, Bm7, Eaug, Am7, Bm7, Eaug, Am7, Bm7, Eaug, Am7, Bm7, Eaug