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Related Music Theory Alchemy

“Time to Pretend” by MGMT is a psychedelic pop/rock song that incorporates elements of electronic and indie rock music. The chord progression in the pre-chorus, which we will specifically analyze, shows MGMT’s experimentation with harmonic structure, drawing influences from both traditional classical and popular music techniques.

“Weekend Wars” by MGMT features a distinctive and slightly unconventional chord progression. The verse is in D minor and consists of 22 chords, providing a unique and somewhat complex harmonic landscape. The majority of the chords used are diatonic, but there are also borrowed chords and other non-diatonic chords which contribute to the song’s unique character.

Chord Progression:
Dm (i), C (VII), G (IV), C (VII), G (IV), F (III), Dm (i), C (VII), F (III), Am (v), F (III), Dm (i), C (VII), G (IV), C (VII), G (IV), F (III), Dm (i), C (VII), F (III), Am (v), F (III)

Dm – D minor
C – C major
G – G major (borrowed chord)
F – F major
Am – A minor

Verse 2 of Grizzly Bear’s “Yet Again” presents a straightforward harmonic progression that is common in pop and indie rock music. This series of chords is mainly built around the key of A minor, and uses diatonic chords (those that naturally occur within the key) of this key. The recurring sequence (Am, G, C, F, F, Em, C, Dm) indicates a strong sense of familiarity and predictability, characteristic of many pop/rock anthologies.

“When Doves Cry” by Prince shows the artist’s flair for the unusual. While the song is primarily in A minor, Prince takes liberties with creating unexpected shifts in harmony, which gives the song its unique character. The song revolves around five chords: Am, G, Em, F, and G, repeated throughout the verse. This circular progression offers a sense of continuity, yet Prince’s interpretation and arrangement create a sense of unpredictability.

The chord progression in Verse 2 of Beck’s “Say Goodbye” showcases a unique blend of chords that are not commonly heard together in popular music. The mix of major, minor, and borrowed chords creates an interesting and engaging sound. Its distinctive quality can be found in the use of the A# major chord, which is not diatonic to the key of G major.

MGMT – Time To Pretend – Verse 2

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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 (Isus2) – D Major (I) x 5

“`[No borrowed chords are present]“`

Similar Chord Progressions

1. Coldplay – “The Scientist”: D Major (I) – B minor (vi) – G Major (IV) – A Major (V)
2. Oasis – “Wonderwall”: D Major (I) – Dsus4 (Isus4) – A Major (V) – G Major (IV) – E minor (ii)
3. The Lumineers – “Ho Hey”: D Major (I) – B minor (vi) – G Major (IV)

In summary, the chord progression in the verse of MGMT’s “Time To Pretend” is simple and repetitive, featuring triads and suspensions. The use of the Dsus2 chord adds an element of tension and release, making the progression more engaging. The song’s style can be classified as electronic psychedelic rock and neo-psychedelia, and similar chord progressions can be found in songs by Coldplay, Oasis, and The Lumineers.

Musical Analysis

The verse in “Time To Pretend” contains a four-chord progression that is repeated five times. The chords used are not complex, nor are they particularly rich in texture. They are triads and simple suspensions, which contribute to a straightforward harmonic foundation. The use of the Dsus2 chord adds an element of tension and release within the progression, which is resolved by returning to the D Major chord.

It’s important to note that even though the progression is harmonically simple, MGMT successfully builds atmosphere and interest through their use of production, instrumentation, and melody. The repetition of the chord progression contributes to the hypnotic and meditative quality of the song.

Overall Analysis

The chord progression in the verse of “Time To Pretend” by MGMT is primarily built around the key of D major. It features a simple and repetitive structure, with some variations. The chords used are mainly triads and simple extensions, with the occasional use of suspended chords (Dsus2) to create tension and release. The progression showcases the band’s ability to create an engaging and immersive soundscape, while keeping the harmony relatively simple.

Style Analysis

MGMT’s “Time To Pretend” can be classified as a blend of electronic psychedelic rock and neo-psychedelia. The chord progression is representative of the song’s overall structure: simple but effective. The use of the Dsus2 chord reflects the band’s inclination to experiment with harmony, albeit cautiously.

Chords in the Verse 2 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