Radiohead – Idioteque – Verse
Idioteque < All Analyses
Chord Progression
Cadd2/B, Em, Gm/Eb, C, Cadd2/B, Em, Gm/Eb, C, Cadd2/B, Em, Gm/Eb, C, Cadd2/B, Em, Gm/Eb, C
Chord Progression Analysis
“`
Cadd2/B (‘I’),
Em (‘iii’),
Gm/Eb (‘ivº’),
C (‘I’),
Cadd2/B (‘I’),
Em (‘iii’),
Gm/Eb (‘ivº’),
C (‘I’),
Cadd2/B (‘I’),
Em (‘iii’),
Gm/Eb (‘ivº’),
C (‘I’),
Cadd2/B (‘I’),
Em (‘iii’),
Gm/Eb (‘ivº’),
C (‘I’)
“`
Borrowed Chord(s):
“`
Gm/Eb (‘ivº’)
“`
Similar Chord Progressions
While “Idioteque”‘s chord progression is quite unique, some other artists have employed similar harmonic devices.
1. “Exit Music (For a Film)” by Radiohead:
“`
Am (‘i’),
E (‘V’),
G (‘VII’),
D (‘IV’)
“`
Here, the G major chord can be seen as borrowed from the parallel major key, serving a similar purpose as the Gm/Eb chord in “Idioteque”.
2. “Space Oddity” by David Bowie:
“`
C (‘I’),
Em (‘iii’),
Am (‘vi’),
Cmaj7 (‘IM7’),
C (‘I’),
Em (‘iii’),
Am (‘vi’),
Cmaj7 (‘IM7’)
“`
This progression shares the I-iii movement found in “Idioteque” but does not have the borrowed ivº chord.
In conclusion, Radiohead’s “Idioteque” employs a creative and intriguing chord progression, effectively capturing the unique aura that has come to define the band’s style. Its innovative use of borrowed chords and harmonic movement elevates the song’s sonic landscape, making it a memorable addition to Radiohead’s discography.
Musical Analysis
The chord progression of Idioteque revolves around a repetitive cycle of the Cadd2/B, Em, Gm/Eb, and C chords. The progression starts with the Cadd2/B chord, a C major chord with an added 2nd and an alternate bass note (B), creating a sense of suspension. The progression then moves to the Em chord which is diatonic to the key, followed by the borrowed chord Gm/Eb, adding tension and intrigue.
The Gm/Eb, a first inversion G minor chord, is borrowed from the parallel minor key (C minor). It acts as a pivot chord, connecting the progression back to C major. The chord progression ends with the return to the tonic chord, C, effectively resolving the tension, before the cycle repeats.
Overall Analysis
“Idioteque” by Radiohead is a song with an alternative rock/electronic style, featuring an unusual chord progression that effectively creates a sense of tension and instability while still maintaining a familiar and consonant tonality. This can be attributed to the band’s creative use of borrowed chords and harmonic movement.
Style Analysis
Radiohead is known for their experimental approach to songwriting, and “Idioteque” is no exception, as it showcases their unique and innovative harmonic choices. The combination of the chords with the driving, syncopated rhythm creates a sonic landscape that defies expectation and adds a captivating sense of unease to the song. The electronic elements and atmospheric production enhance the chord progression’s emotions, making the song a prime example of Radiohead’s signature style.
What are the chords in: Radiohead – Idioteque – Verse?
Cadd2/B, Em, Gm/Eb, C, Cadd2/B, Em, Gm/Eb, C, Cadd2/B, Em, Gm/Eb, C, Cadd2/B, Em, Gm/Eb, C
