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Related Music Theory Alchemy

** The chord progression in Verse 3 of Radiohead’s “Fake Plastic Trees” is a combination of diatonic and non-diatonic chords in the key of A major, featuring the use of suspended chords, 9th chords, and 6th chords. The progression has a tonally ambiguous and ethereal quality, which is characteristic of Radiohead’s style.

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The verse 2 chord progression of Radiohead’s “Everything In Its Right Place” demonstrates a combination of diatonic and non-diatonic chords with tonal ambiguity, frequent use of borrowed chords from parallel modes, and modulation. The progression has a cyclic, hypnotic quality with occasional surprises due to large leaps in pitch and unexpected, non-diatonic chords.

The chorus maintains a feeling of resolution and tension by alternating between the IV (F major) and V (G major) chords, while the vi (A minor) to V/vi (E major) progression provides a smooth transition back to the IV chord (F major).

In terms of borrowed chords, the E Major is a borrowed chord.
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E major (V/vi)
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The song ‘Zombie’ by The Cranberries is in the key of E minor. Its defining characteristics include plaintive repeated melodies, an intense grunge-inspired arrangement, and Dolores O’Riordan’s iconic vocal embellishments. The song employs a common rock/pop chord progression with added tension by using the D/F# chord.

“Whole Lotta Love” by Led Zeppelin is a classic example of hard rock and blues rock, characterized by its driving rhythm, distorted guitar riff, and powerful vocal performance by Robert Plant. The harmonic structure of the song is relatively simple, with a focus on the blues-based E-D-E progression during the second chorus. Although seemingly basic, this progression contributes to the song’s raw, energetic vibe.

Radiohead – Fake Plastic Trees – Chorus 2

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Chord Progression

Bm7add11, A, Bm7add11, Asus4, A

Chord Progression Analysis

Bm7add11 (vii7add11), A (IV), Bm7add11 (vii7add11), Asus4 (IVsus4), A (IV)

Borrowed Chord:
None

Similar Chord Progressions

1. Coldplay – “The Scientist”: Dm(add9) (iadd9), Bb (VI), F (III), C (VII)
2. Nirvana – “Polly”: Em (i), G (III), D (VII), C (VI)
3. Oasis – “Wonderwall”: Em7 (ii7), G (IV), Dsus4 (I5sus4), A7sus4 (V7sus4)

These songs, like “Fake Plastic Trees,” showcase the use of unconventional chords and progressions in their respective genres. Each song displays an attention to inventive harmony and emotional depth, making them excellent examples of creative chord progressions in contemporary music.

Musical Analysis

The chord progression can be analyzed in the key of D major. It starts with a Bm7add11, a vii7add11 chord that adds tension before resolving to the IV (A) chord. The progression then returns to the vii7add11 (Bm7add11) before moving to the IVsus4 (Asus4) which adds further tension by suspending the 4th scale degree, and finally resolving back to the IV (A) chord again.

This progression is notable for its use of the vii7add11 and IVsus4 chords, which give it a uniquely tense and atmospheric quality. The mixture of these chords with the more typical IV (A) contributes to the overall melancholic and earnest feel of the song.

Overall Analysis

Radiohead’s “Fake Plastic Trees” is an alternative rock ballad from their 1995 album, “The Bends.” The moody and atmospheric track is characterized by its emotive vocal delivery, contrasting dynamics, rich arrangement, and engaging chord progression. This progression, in particular, features an interesting mixture of diatonic and borrowed chords that create a sense of tension and resolution throughout the piece.

Style Analysis

Radiohead’s “Fake Plastic Trees” is a prime example of the band’s innovative and influential approach to alternative rock songwriting. It showcases the band’s penchant for blending traditional rock instrumentation with unconventional song structures and harmonic choices. The emotional intensity of the vocal delivery, combined with the intricate arrangement and dynamic contrasts, has made the song one of Radiohead’s most recognizable and enduring works.

Chords in the Chorus 2 section of Fake Plastic Trees by Radiohead are:

Bm7add11, A, Bm7add11, Asus4, A