MGMT – Time To Pretend – Chorus 1
Time To Pretend < All Analyses
Chord Progression
A, F#m, G, A, D, G, D, G, D, G, D
Chord Progression Analysis
“`
A Major (V) – F# Minor (iii) – G Major (IV♭) – A Major (V) – D Major (I) – G Major (IV♭) – D Major (I) – G Major (IV♭) – D Major (I) – G Major (IV♭) – D Major (I)
“`
Similar Chord Progressions
1. “Let It Be” by The Beatles:
“`
C Major (I) – G Major (V) – A Minor (vi) – F Major (IV) – C Major (I) – G Major (V) – F Major (IV) – C Major (I)
“`
2. “Champagne Supernova” by Oasis:
“`
A Major (I) – E Major (V) – F# Minor (vi) – D Major (IV) – G Major (♭VII) – A Major (I)
“`
While these examples may not have the exact same chord progressions as “Time To Pretend,” they share similar elements of modal mixture and non-conventional arrangements that contribute to their distinct and memorable sound.
Musical Analysis
The progression begins with A Major (V), the dominant of the key, creating a sense of tension before resolving to F# Minor (iii), the relative minor. The G Major (IV♭) is borrowed from the D Mixolydian mode. This chord achieves harmonic interest and adds a touch of instability, further highlighted by the return to the A Major (V) chord.
After the first four chords, the progression continues to D Major (I) – G Major (IV♭), reinforcing the tonality in D Major and continuing the mixture of the D Mixolydian mode. This alternation between I and IV♭ reiterates the foundation, providing a sense of grounding amidst the modal mixture.
Overall Analysis
“Time To Pretend” by MGMT features a non-conventional and interesting chord progression. The progression can be primarily analyzed in the key of D Major with a brief modulation to the relative minor (F#m). The chords are not sophisticated in terms of extensions, but the arrangement and harmonic movement provide a unique and memorable melody. This chorus is an example of diatonic and modal mixture, using chords not only from the primary key but also borrowing chords from other modes.
Style Analysis
“Time To Pretend” showcases MGMT’s distinct blend of psychedelic and indie rock. The chord progression reflects this style by incorporating elements of unpredictability and uniqueness. Synth-driven and with a clean mix, the looped chorus chords give a dreamy and atmospheric feel. This sound is reminiscent of some of the influential bands of the late 2000s.
What are the chords in: MGMT – Time To Pretend – Chorus 1?
A, F#m, G, A, D, G, D, G, D, G, D
