Keane – Somewhere Only We Know – Pre-Chorus
Somewhere Only We Know < All Analyses
Chord Progression
[‘Am’, ‘Em’, ‘Dm’, ‘F’, ‘G’, ‘Am’, ‘Em’, ‘Dm’, ‘F’, ‘G’]
Chord Progression Analysis
In the given pre-chorus, the chords are based in the key of A minor:
A minor (‘vi)
E minor (‘iii)
D minor (‘ii)
F Major (‘IV)
G Major (‘V)
The progression repeats twice. The song mainly stays in the key, with no borrowed chords in the pre-chorus.
“`A minor, E minor, D minor, F Major, G Major“`
Similar Chord Progressions
This chord progression might seem fairly unique due its particular order, however, these chords are very common in pop and rock music. A similar chord progression can be found in “Hallelujah” by Leonard Cohen, which follows a similar cyclical pattern with a sense of unresolved tension, although the order and key is different: C Major (‘IV), A minor (‘vi), F Major (‘IV), G Major (‘V).
Another song with somewhat similar chords is “Don’t Look Back in Anger” by Oasis, though it uses an additional chord and the progression is quite different, it does include the chords: C Major (‘I), D minor (‘ii), A minor (‘vi), G Major (‘V), and F Major (‘IV).
Note that the specific progressions and use of these chords in the context of individual songs can lead to quite different musical effects based on various factors such as melody, rhythm, instrumentation, and song structure.
Musical Analysis
This particular progression (vi-iii-ii-IV-V), is less common but still adheres to the prevalent use of 2-5-1 progressions seen throughout all genres of music. Here, the “Dm-F-G” can be seen as a ii-IV-V, and then the progression cycles back to vi. The shifts between vi-iii and ii-IV provide tension and release within the progression, ultimately resolving on the V chord, G Major, which then leads back to the vi chord, A minor, as the cycle begins anew.
Overall Analysis
“Somewhere Only We Know” by Keane uses a handful of straightforward major and minor chords which contribute to a pop, atmospheric, and emotive sound indicative of the band’s alternative rock aesthetic. The chord progression of the pre-chorus is fairly common and creates a cyclical and slightly unsettled feel that fits well with the song’s lyrical themes of uncertainty and longing for return.
Style Analysis
Keane is known for their reliance on the piano, atmospheric elements, and emotionally charged lyrics and melodies. The chord progression in the pre-chorus contributes to these stylistic elements by creating an emotive and somewhat unresolved atmosphere, fitting for the lyrics’ themes of ambiguity and longing.
What are the chords in: Keane – Somewhere Only We Know – Pre-Chorus?
[‘Am’, ‘Em’, ‘Dm’, ‘F’, ‘G’, ‘Am’, ‘Em’, ‘Dm’, ‘F’, ‘G’]
