Muse – Apocalypse Please – Chorus
Apocalypse Please < All Analyses
Chord Progression
F#m, D/F#, E/G#, Eaug/G#, A, C#, A, C#
Chord Progression Analysis
F#m (i), D/F# (VI/♭), E/G# (ii), Eaug/G# (ii+), A (III), C# (V/♭), A (III), C# (V/♭)
Similar Chord Progressions
Musical Analysis
This progression starts with the tonic minor chord, F#m, which provides a stable base. The second chord, D/F#, is a borrowed chord from the parallel major key of F# major. This sets up an interesting juxtaposition of the minor and major tonalities. The progression then moves to E/G#, which is the ii chord, followed by Eaug/G# (ii+), creating tension and anticipation.
The next chord, A, serves as the III in the given progression. It acts as a pivot chord in the modulation to the key of A major, the relative major of F# minor. The subsequent C# chord is a V/♭ chord borrowed from A major’s parallel minor key, A minor. The progression then returns to A and C# to reinforce the modulation to A major (by functioning as III and V/♭ once again respectively).
Style Notes:
Muse’s signature style often consists of dramatic chord progressions and bold harmonic shifts, as can be seen in this progression. The mix of diatonic chords and borrowed chords adds to the complexity and richness of the harmonic language. Muse’s inclusion of inversion and an augmented chord also creates an interesting texture and a pull toward resolution, fitting well with the song’s apocalyptic theme.
Overall Analysis
The chord progression in the chorus of Muse’s “Apocalypse Please” consists of a mix of diatonic chords and borrowed chords from the parallel major and minor keys. The progression features strong harmonic movement with a pivot modulation. Muse is known for their dramatic, often symphonic rock sound, and this progression is no exception in showing off their signature style. The progression also shares some similarities with other artists’ works in both structure and harmonic content.
Style Analysis
1. Radiohead – “Paranoid Android”
Dm (i), G (IV), C (VII), Bb (♭VI), F/A (III), A7 (V/♭)
2. The Beatles – “Strawberry Fields Forever”
A (i), C#m (iii), F#m (vi), G (VII/♭), D (IV), E (V), A (i)
These songs, just like Muse’s “Apocalypse Please,” feature a blend of diatonic and borrowed chords which create dynamic harmonic movement. They also incorporate modulation, showcasing the artists’ use of complex progressions to elicit emotional and atmospheric responses.
What are the chords in: Muse – Apocalypse Please – Chorus?
F#m, D/F#, E/G#, Eaug/G#, A, C#, A, C#
