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Related Music Theory Alchemy

This chord progression from Radiohead’s “You And Whose Army” is in the key of C# minor, and the chords are predominantly composed of diatonic chords from the C# natural minor scale with some borrowed chords from the parallel major scale. The progression follows a looped pattern, creating a hypnotic and catchy quality which is characteristic of Radiohead’s music.

The chord progression in Verse 2 of Radiohead’s “All I Need” is a relatively simple and straightforward progression featuring chords from the key of C major. The progression revolves around the I, iii, and V chords (C, Em, and G), providing a tonal base that’s consistent and easy to follow. Radiohead’s use of repetition and minimalism in this progression contributes to an emotional atmosphere and allows listeners to focus on the lyrics and other musical elements.

The bridge of “Say Goodbye” by Beck features a simple two-chord progression. However, this simplicity allows space for an interesting interplay between melody and harmony while still evoking strong emotions. Despite being simple, the progression still manages to create a sense of tension and resolution.

The bridge of George Benson’s “Give Me The Night” features a blend of jazz, R&B, and pop elements. The harmonic progression showcases a series of descending chords, interspersed with borrowed chords that provide an interesting twist to the overall tonality of the piece.

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“Every Day Is Exactly The Same” by Nine Inch Nails has an interesting chord progression, particularly in the bridge, which adopts a distinct pattern of E, A, C, G repeatedly. This song is classified under Industrial Rock and utilizes repetition impressively to create a sense of monotony and frustration, akin to the lyrical theme.

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Radiohead – You And Whose Army – Bridge

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Chord Progression

C#m, C#m/B, C#m/A#, F#, C#m, C#m/B, C#m/A#, F#, C#m, E, F#, C#

Chord Progression Analysis

“`
C#m (i) – C#m/B (i6) – C#m/B♭ (N6) – F# (V) – C#m (i) – C#m/B (i6) – C#m/B♭ (N6) – F# (V) – C#m (i) – E (III) – F# (V) – C# (VI)
“`

Similar Chord Progressions

1. “Dear Prudence” by The Beatles
“`
D (I) – C (♭VII) – G (IV) – A (V) – D (I)
“`

2. “Glycerine” by Bush
“`
Bm (i) – A (VII) – E (IV) – G♯ (III+) – Bm (i)
“`

3. “I Will Follow You into the Dark” by Death Cab for Cutie
“`
A (I) – E (V) – A (I) – F♯m (vi) – D (IV) – A/C♯ (I6) – Bm (ii) – E (V)
“`

These chord progressions, while not identical, share a similar sense of motion and experiment with borrowed chords, chromaticism, and altered chord functions.

Musical Analysis

The chord progression starts with the C#m (i) chord, followed by the first inversion of the same chord, C#m/B (i6). This type of progression is common, as the movement in the bass creates a sense of forward momentum.

Next, the progression introduces the borrowed chord C#m/B♭ (N6), which functions as the Neapolitan 6th. This borrowing adds tension and color to the progression, as the Neapolitan 6th is a chromatic chord that is not diatonic to the key of C# minor.

The bridging section maintains tension by moving to the F# (V) chord, before returning to the C#m (i) chord. The progression then repeats the first four chords again, which further reinforces the tension established by the Neapolitan 6th chord.

The end of the progression takes an interesting turn, with the E (III) chord and subsequent F# (V) chord. The E chord acts as a predominant chord, which sets up the expectation for a return to the tonic chord. Instead, the progression moves to the F# (V), which is a surprising move that heightens the tension.

Finally, the progression resolves to the C# (VI) chord, a borrowed major chord that provides a surprising resolution and an uplifting conclusion to the bridge section.

Overall Analysis

“You And Whose Army?” by Radiohead is an alternative rock song featuring an interesting chord progression in the bridge. The chord progression is characterized by its dynamic movement and integration of non-diatonic chords. The progression is in the key of C# minor, and it displays unique qualities that allow it to stand out from traditional chord progressions. The combination of borrowed chords and voice leading creates a sense of tension and excitement, which contributes to the song’s overall atmosphere.

Style Analysis

The style of this chord progression is typical of Radiohead, as the band is known for its unique compositions and experimentation with traditional chord movements. The use of the Neapolitan 6th and other borrowed chords demonstrates Radiohead’s willingness to push the boundaries of alternative rock while also displaying their strong understanding of music theory. The way the progression moves between tension and release creates an engaging experience for the listener.

Chords in the Bridge section of You And Whose Army by Radiohead are:

C#m, C#m/B, C#m/A#, F#, C#m, C#m/B, C#m/A#, F#, C#m, E, F#, C#