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Related Music Theory Alchemy

The chord progression in the verse of “Apocalypse Please” by Muse is mostly based on the F#m and C# chords, with a strong emphasis on the i and V7 relationship. The progression moves back and forth between these two chords without straying far from the Tonality of F# minor while maintaining a tension and release structure.

The chord progression in the chorus of Muse’s “Megalomania” features a blend of major and minor chords, as well as the use of the dominant 7th chord (B7) to create tension and resolution. This progression provides a harmonic foundation for the powerful and emotional vocals, giving it an intense and memorable feel.

Let It Happen’ by Tame Impala employs an accessible and effective chord progression, usual in pop/rock music, yet has unusualness due to the usage of the G#sus4 chord, providing a unique tonal flavor and emotional quality. There is a striking use of harmonic contrast and a continuous return and release of tension throughout the song. This creates an immersive cyclical quality, complementing the song’s theme of embracing inevitable moments and experiences.

“Paint It, Black” is in E minor key, with verse 3 having an exciting harmonic progression: Em – B – Em – B – Em – D – G – D – Em – Em – D – G – D – A – B. The chord progression suggests that the Rolling Stones utilise borrowed chords to impose an air of ambiguity that reflects the song’s lyrical themes. Additionally, this song is a blend of rock and raga rock style and exemplifies the Stones’ 1960s exploration into psychedelia and Eastern musical styles.

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“Sour Times” by Portishead is a song with a complex and intriguing chord progression. It blends minor key tonality with modulations and chromaticism to give it a mysterious and brooding atmosphere. The song is primarily in the key of C# minor and features some borrowed chords and inversions that color the overall progression.

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Muse – Apocalypse Please – Verse 3

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Chord Progression

F#m/C, C#, F#m/C#, C#, F#m, C#, F#m, C#

Chord Progression Analysis

`F#m/C (vi6/4)`, `C# (V)`, `F#m/C# (vi6/5)`, `C# (V)`, `F#m (vi)`, `C# (V)`, `F#m (vi)`, `C# (V)`

Similar Chord Progressions

1. Radiohead – Karma Police: `Am (vi)`, `Em (iii)`, `G (I)`, `Am (vi)`, `G (I)`, `D (IV)`, `C (III)`, `E7 (V7)`
2. Coldplay – Clocks: `Eb (I)`, `Bb (V)`, `Fm7 (vi7)`, `Eb (I)`, `Bb (V)`, `Fm7 (vi7)`, `Eb (I)`, `Bb (V)`

These two examples share some common degree movements with the Muse progression, particularly with the usage of vi – V – vi throughout. Of course, the tone and feel of these songs differ, but the underlying harmonic movement shares some similarities.

Musical Analysis

The chord progression begins with an F#m/C, which serves as a first inversion of the vi chord (since F#m is the vi chord and C is the fourth in F#m), followed by the dominant chord, C# (V). The progression then moves to a F#m/C# – this can be seen as a first inversion (vi6/5) due to the presence of the C# in the bass. The dominant (C#) is revisited before repeating the F#m (vi) – C# (V) pattern twice more.

Throughout the progression, the alternation between F#m and C# adds tension and resolution as the chords oscillate between the submediant and dominant. The use of the different inversions (6/4 and 6/5) adds more depth and variety to the harmonic structure of the piece.

Overall Analysis

The chord progression of the given segment from Muse’s “Apocalypse Please” reflects the band’s signature blend of rock, electronic, and classical music. The progression is in the key of F# minor and features some chromaticism and modal mixture, which is quite common in their style of music. The harmonic rhythm is mostly consistent, and the chords utilized provide a strong sense of direction and resolution throughout the verse.

Style Analysis

Muse’s music often incorporates elements of classical, film score, and electronic music in their compositions. The “Apocalypse Please” chord progression showcases this by melding traditional harmonic patterns with more contemporary elements like the rising and falling motion of the bass. Additionally, the way Muse pairs this with their choice of instrumentation (including synthesizers and other electronic sounds) elements contributes to their unique sound.

Chords in the Verse 3 section of Apocalypse Please by Muse are:

F#m/C, C#, F#m/C#, C#, F#m, C#, F#m, C#