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Related Music Theory Alchemy

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“Closer” by Nine Inch Nails is a repetitive, hypnotic song that relies on a dark tonality and electronic elements to create its unique sound. This is achieved with the use of only two chords: Cm7 and F. Notably, a distinctive feature of this song is the lack of chordal diversity which aids in creating a minimal, industrial vibe.

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“Every Day Is Exactly The Same” by Nine Inch Nails is primarily composed in the key of E minor. The song consists of four sections: Verse 1, Chorus, Verse 2, and Bridge. The chord progressions in the song are relatively simple, with a distinct alternation between E and C chords in the verses, while the chorus and bridge sections feature a broader range of chords such as A, C, and G.

Chord Progression Analysis (Verse 2):
E minor (i), C major (VI), E minor (i), C major (VI), E minor (i), C major (VI), G major (III), F major (♭VII; borrowed chord from E Phrygian), E minor (i)

*G major (III) and F major (♭VII) are both non-diatonic chords in E minor, with the F major chord being borrowed from the E Phrygian mode.

The given chord progression is the Pre-Chorus section of “After The Storm” by Kali Uchis. The chords in this progression are predominantly built on the 1st and 2nd degrees of the minor scale. The recurring use of the Eaug chord injects an interesting and stylish twist into the music.

The song “Dead Flowers” by The Rolling Stones is a classic rock tune that is characterized by its simple yet effective chord progressions. The key of this song is D Major. This song utilizes mostly major chords (D, A, and G), and it has a strong emphasis on the I-IV-V chord progression, a staple in many rock, blues, and pop music.

“Somewhere Only We Know” by Keane uses a handful of straightforward major and minor chords which contribute to a pop, atmospheric, and emotive sound indicative of the band’s alternative rock aesthetic. The chord progression of the pre-chorus is fairly common and creates a cyclical and slightly unsettled feel that fits well with the song’s lyrical themes of uncertainty and longing for return.

Nine Inch Nails – Closer – Pre-Chorus

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Chord Progression

[‘B’, ‘C#’, ‘B’, ‘C#’, ‘B’, ‘C#’, ‘B’, ‘C#’, ‘G’, ‘B’, ‘C#’, ‘B’, ‘C#’, ‘B’, ‘C#’, ‘B’, ‘C#’, ‘G’, ‘B’, ‘C#’, ‘B’, ‘C#’, ‘B’, ‘C#’, ‘B’, ‘C#’, ‘G’, ‘B’, ‘C#’, ‘B’, ‘C#’, ‘B’, ‘C#’]

Chord Progression Analysis

The primary chords in the Pre-Chorus are

– `B Major (‘III’)`
– `C# Minor (‘iv’)`
– `G Major (‘bVI’)`

This progression is repeated several times, forming the harmonic backdrop of the pre-chorus section of “Closer”.

Similar Chord Progressions

This basic III – IV chord progression is fairly common in rock music although its combination with the bVI is more atypical. Other songs with similar progressions include:

– “Creep” by Radiohead: `G Major (‘I’)` – `B Major (‘III’)` – `C Major (‘IV’)` – `C Minor (‘iv’)`
– “Imagine” by John Lennon: `C Major (‘I’)` – `E Major (‘III’)` – `F Major (‘IV’)` – `F Minor (‘iv’)`

Note: The Roman numeral analysis above assumes a Major ‘I’ chord for clarity. In reality, these songs may not revolve around a clear major ‘I’, particularly in the case of “Closer” which is more ambiguous.

Bear in mind that while the chord structures may be similar, the overall sonic landscapes in these pieces are notably different, underlining the diversity possible even with a straightforward chord progression. Each song exhibits a distinctively different musical style and mood: from unresolved sadness in “Creep”, to idealistic hope in “Imagine”, and dark provocation in “Closer”.

Musical Analysis

The predominant chord progression of “Closer” exhibits a cycle between B major and C# minor chords, with an elusive G major chord infrequently interjected. This is a pivot chord modulation, where a shared chord acts as a pivot between the original key and the key of modulation. The G major present is a borrowed chord from the parallel major key.

Overall Analysis

“Closer” by Nine Inch Nails, released in 1994, is a well-known song distinguished by its catchy synth lines, explosive percussion, and provocative lyricism. Hinged on a distinct, repeating synth bassline, the song employs a fundamental chord progression epitomizing the alternative rock and industrial genres. Its tonal centre revolves around the key of C# minor.

Style Analysis

“Closer” encapsulates Nine Inch Nails’ characteristic edgy and dark musical style by employing the methods of alternative rock and industrial genres. Its iconic synth bassline, ambiguous tonal center, and emotionally charged lyricism instil a provocative mood. The chord progression is simplistic, while the arrangement and instrumentation are deeply layered and intricate, creating a unique soundscape.

Chords in the Pre-chorus section of Closer by Nine Inch Nails are:

[‘B’, ‘C#’, ‘B’, ‘C#’, ‘B’, ‘C#’, ‘B’, ‘C#’, ‘G’, ‘B’, ‘C#’, ‘B’, ‘C#’, ‘B’, ‘C#’, ‘B’, ‘C#’, ‘G’, ‘B’, ‘C#’, ‘B’, ‘C#’, ‘B’, ‘C#’, ‘B’, ‘C#’, ‘G’, ‘B’, ‘C#’, ‘B’, ‘C#’, ‘B’, ‘C#’]