Muse – New Born – Riff
New Born < All Analyses
Chord Progression
C, A#dim7, Bsus4, B
Chord Progression Analysis
C Major (I), A#dim7 (vii°7), Bsus4 (IVsus4), B Major (IV)
Similar Chord Progressions
1. Radiohead – “Exit Music (For a Film)”: Cm (i), G6add4 (V6add4), B Major (III), A#m7b5 (viiø7)
2. Dream Theater – “The Spirit Carries On”: C Major (I), E7 (III7), A7 (VI7), Dm7 (ii7), Gsus2 (V5sus2), G Major (V)
While these examples don’t have the exact same chord progression as “New Born,” they both feature the use of chromaticism, borrowed chords, and unconventional harmony, similar to the techniques employed by Muse. Such progressions contribute to the unique and evocative soundscapes that these artists are well-known for.
Musical Analysis
The progression begins with a C Major chord, which sets the tonal center as C. The A#dim7 chord is a borrowed chord, creating a surprise effect due to its chromaticism. The diminished chords often have a strong pull resolving by a half step up, which happens in this case to the Bsus4 chord.
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A#dim7 is a borrowed chord.
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Following the A#dim7 is a Bsus4 chord, which creates suspense and tension through the suspended 4th interval. This tension is resolved as the Bsus4 progresses to a solid B Major chord. The B Major chord’s presence in the key of C Major is not diatonic, making it another notable and inventive choice by Muse.
Overall Analysis
The chord progression in the riff from Muse’s “New Born” is intriguing and creative, employing chromaticism and non-diatonic chords to create a unique and dramatic sound. The progression consists of four chords: C, A#dim7, Bsus4, and B. This progression doesn’t adhere to a single key, making it difficult to analyze in terms of functional harmony. However, it showcases Muse’s experimental tendencies, a quintessential aspect of their music style.
Style Analysis
Muse is known for their fusion of progressive and symphonic rock elements with alternative rock. Their style often includes experimental and unconventional chord progressions, as well as the use of chromaticism, which is evident in the riff from “New Born.” The progression showcases Muse’s capacity to create tension and drama through non-diatonic and borrowed chords, crafting a distinctive and atmospheric sound.
What are the chords in: Muse – New Born – Riff?
C, A#dim7, Bsus4, B
