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Related Music Theory Alchemy

“Electric Feel” by MGMT is characterized by its repetitive, catchy chord progression and usage of both major and minor chords which create a unique, surreal atmosphere. The song includes elements of psychedelic pop, funk, and electronic music.

The chord progression in the chorus of “Kids” by MGMT is a repetitive and catchy sequence that features four chords, showcasing MGMT’s characteristic electronic pop and psychedelic rock sound. The progression is in the key of A Major, and the chords follow a vi-IV-I-V pattern.

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Feels Like We Only Go Backwards by Tame Impala uses very interesting chord progressions that convey a feeling of constant motion. The song is primarily in the key of F Major, as revealed by the majority of the chords (F, C, Gm). However, the chord progression in the verse introduces Dm and Cmaj7/G, showing some clever use of modal interchange, also known as borrowed chords.

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The song “Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me” by Elton John is brilliantly harmonized, showcasing the great musical arrangement skills of John at his best. Primarily, the song is based in the key of C Major and uses a variety of moving bass lines over mostly diatonic chords in the verses and choruses. There are some key modulations and borrowed chords that give the harmony a rich and complex quality which sets it apart from many contemporary pop songs.

Verse

The verse of “Megalomania” by Muse is characterized by distinctive harmonic progressions, dynamic contrasts, and notable melodic lines that are typical of the band’s alternative rock style. Throughout this verse, Muse uses common harmonic devices such as secondary dominants, diatonic and chromatic mediants, borrowed chords from parallel keys, and deceptive cadences to create a sense of tension and forward momentum.

MGMT – Electric Feel – Verse 1

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Chord Progression

Am7, Em, F, G, Em, F, Am7, Em, F, G, Em, F, Am7, Em, F, G, Em, F, Am7, Em, F, G, Em, F

Chord Progression Analysis

Here is the analysis of the chord progression, including the full chord names and their Roman numerals:

Am7 (i), Em (v), F (VI), G (VII), Em (v), F (VI), Am7 (i), Em (v), F (VI), G (VII), Em (v), F (VI), Am7 (i), Em (v), F (VI), G (VII), Em (v), F (VI), Am7 (i), Em (v), F (VI), G (VII), Em (v), F (VI)

`Borrowed chord: None for this progression`

Similar Chord Progressions

1. “Breathe” by Pink Floyd
Verse: Em9 (v), A (IV), Em9 (v), A (IV), Em9 (v), A (IV), Em9 (v), A (IV)

2. “Can’t Stop” by Red Hot Chili Peppers
Verse: Em9 (i), D (VII), Am (iv), Fmaj7 (VI)

3. “Gravity” by John Mayer
Verse: G7 (VII7), Cmaj7 (I), Em7 (iii), D (II)

While these examples may not have the exact same chord progression as “Electric Feel,” they share similarities in cyclical progressions and atmospheric vibes. The blend of major and minor chords in these progressions creates emotional depth and helps evoke different moods within listeners.

Musical Analysis

The verse progression begins with the tonic minor, Am7 (i), which sets the overall minor tonality. The progression then moves to Em (v), acting as a minor dominant. The following chords, F (VI) and G (VII), represent a temporary shift away from the minor tonality to the relative major. This shift adds a sense of brightness to the verse. The repetition of this pattern creates a cyclic, hypnotic feel, with the chords continually building tension and releasing back to the tonic minor.

Overall Analysis

The chord progression for the verse of “Electric Feel” by MGMT is based in the key of C major. The progression mainly revolves around the use of i, v, VI, and VII chords. The song has a hypnotic, cyclic feel that is characteristic of the neo-psychedelic genre, with touches of funk and dance music elements.

Style Analysis

“Electric Feel” by MGMT showcases a blend of neo-psychedelic, funk, and dance music elements. The chord progression is rather simple, which highlights the groove and rhythm. The airiness of Am7’s sound and the alternate minor-major shift evoke a dreamy, kaleidoscopic atmosphere that is characteristic of the neo-psychedelic style.

Chords in the Verse 1 section of Electric Feel by MGMT are:

Am7, Em, F, G, Em, F, Am7, Em, F, G, Em, F, Am7, Em, F, G, Em, F, Am7, Em, F, G, Em, F