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Related Music Theory Alchemy

The song in question, “Endlessly” by Muse, is a reflective and emotional piece, featuring a fairly unique chord progression. The verse’s chord progression is not commonly heard in popular music, giving it a distinct sound that sets it apart from other songs. The use of suspended chords, the shift from Am to Bm, and the resolution to the E7 chord give the piece a floating, ethereal feel.

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.

“Sour Times” by Portishead is largely written in the key of C# minor, with elements of modal interchange and chromaticism that contribute to its haunting, dark sound. The song exhibits a remarkable amount of harmonic complexity and non-diatonic harmony, which is a defining characteristic of the trip-hop genre. The piece makes use of intricate inversions and chromatic voice leading, along with a frequent use of sevenths and diminished chords for added tension.

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.

“Since I’ve Been Loving You” by Led Zeppelin is a slow blues ballad with a rich harmonic palette, featuring expressive guitar solos and a passionate, longing vocal performance. The song is characterized by its use of chromaticism, borrowed chords, and seventh chords, which contribute to its intense, bluesy atmosphere. The chord progression for Verse 2 displays a moody and introspective tone, which serves as the perfect backdrop for the plaintive lyrics and the emotional solos throughout the piece.

Muse – Endlessly – Verse 2

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Chord Progression

Asus4, Am, Asus4, Am, Bm, E7, Asus4, Am, Asus4, Am, Bm, E7

Chord Progression Analysis

Asus4 (IVsus4) – Am (i) – Asus4 (IVsus4) – Am (i) – Bm (ii) – E7 (V7) – Asus4 (IVsus4) – Am (i) – Asus4 (IVsus4) – Am (i) – Bm (ii) – E7 (V7)

“`Borrowed Chord: Bm (ii) from the parallel major key“`

Similar Chord Progressions

1. Radiohead – “Exit Music (For a Film)”
Cmaj7 (I) – Bm (ii) – Em (iii) – G (V) – Fmaj7 (IV) – Am (vi)
2. Coldplay – “Trouble”
Am (i) – Asus4 (IVsus4) – Am (i) – G (III) – F (VI) – G (III)

Both of these examples feature a mix of major and minor chords, along with the use of borrowed and suspended chords to create a more emotionally complex sound. Moreover, the cyclical nature of the chord progressions and the use of tension and release create a sense of anticipation, drawing listeners in and evoking an emotional response.

Musical Analysis

The chord progression starts with alternating between Asus4 and Am, creating tension and release within the music. This back and forth movement gives the chords an unsettled feeling, which contributes to the overall melancholic character of the piece. The Bm chord, which is borrowed from the parallel major key, adds an element of surprise and contributes to the harmonic richness of the progression. The E7 chord acts as a dominant, leading the listener back to the tonic, Am. This cyclical nature of the progression makes it quite catchy and memorable.

Overall Analysis

The chord progression in Muse’s “Endlessly” from Verse 2 is a mix of diatonic chords and a borrowed chord from the parallel major key. The progression has a melancholic feel, utilizing suspended chords to create tension and release. The use of both minor and major chords provides a balanced sound, giving the piece its unique character.

Style Analysis

Muse is known for their progressive rock style, often blending elements of classical music, electronic music, and heavy rock. The use of suspended chords, borrowed chords, and the minor key contributes to the atmospheric and intense sound often associated with the band’s music. This progression in “Endlessly” showcases their ability to craft harmonically rich and emotive music.

Chords in the Verse 2 section of Endlessly by Muse are:

Asus4, Am, Asus4, Am, Bm, E7, Asus4, Am, Asus4, Am, Bm, E7