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Related Music Theory Alchemy

“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.

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.

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“Zombie” by The Cranberries features a relatively commonly used chord progression in pop/rock music, often referred to as a ‘vi-IV-I-V’ progression. This chord progression, in this particular case, is in the key of G Major and is made up of four chords: Em, C, G, and D/F#.

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“Good Vibrations” by The Beach Boys employs a series of chord progressions that echo the rising tension and resolution in the song’s narrative. The song is primarily in the key of D minor, with moments of temporary modulation, which allows for colorful and unexpected harmonies to emerge. This harmonic and melodic complexity is one of the defining characteristics of Brian Wilson’s writing style, highlighting his ability to push the boundaries of pop music.

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“Wonderwall” is a song by Oasis, a British rock band. The song showcases the blend of rock and Britpop style. The chord progression in the verse reflects a strong pop feeling, primarily residing in the key of G major.

MGMT – Time To Pretend – Verse 1

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Chord Progression

D, G, D, Dsus2, D, D, G, D, Dsus2, D, D, G, D, Dsus2, D, D, G, D, Dsus2, D

Chord Progression Analysis

D Major (I) – G Major (IV) – D Major (I) – Dsus2

Implemented as:
“`
D Major (‘I’) – G Major (‘IV’) – D Major (‘I’) – Dsus2
“`

Similar Chord Progressions

1. The Beatles – “Let It Be”
Chord Progression:
“`
C Major (‘I’) – G Major (‘IV’) – A Minor (‘vi’) – F Major (‘IV’)
“`

2. Oasis – “Wonderwall”
Chord Progression:
“`
E Minor (‘ii’) – G Major (‘IV’) – D Major (‘I’) – A Major (‘V’)
“`

3. David Bowie – “Heroes”
Chord Progression:
“`
D Major (‘I’) – G Major (‘IV’) – B Minor (‘vi’) – G Major (‘IV’)
“`

While these chord progressions are not exactly the same as “Time To Pretend,” they share some similarities with the use of the I-IV relationship, and they showcase examples of how this simple relationship can be used to create memorable songs in various genres.

Musical Analysis

The verse of “Time To Pretend” can be divided into four repetitions of the same chord progression. The D Major chord is the tonic chord in the key of D major, which provides a sense of stability and grounding. The G Major chord is the subdominant chord (IV), which adds some tension that is later resolved back to the tonic chord (D Major). The addition of Dsus2 serves to create a sense of intrigue or suspension due to the combination of two tones (D and E) that can be heard simultaneously, contributing to the dreamy quality of the song.

Overall Analysis

“Time To Pretend” features a simple and repetitive chord progression in the key of D major. The chord progression in the verse is characterized by a repeated pattern of D – G – D – Dsus2. The style of the song can be described as psychedelic synth-pop, with its electronic synth sounds and dream-like atmosphere. MGMT’s music often features catchy melodies and harmonies, which can also be heard in this song.

Style Analysis

As previously mentioned, “Time To Pretend” features a psychedelic synth-pop style. The song is characterized by rich synth layers, hypnotic melodies, and evocative lyrics that transport the listener into a dreamy, otherworldly state. The chord progression, while seemingly simple, provides the foundation for these stylistic elements to shine through.

Chords in the Verse 1 section of Time To Pretend by MGMT are:

D, G, D, Dsus2, D, D, G, D, Dsus2, D, D, G, D, Dsus2, D, D, G, D, Dsus2, D