Radiohead – You And Whose Army – Bridge
You And Whose Army < All Analyses
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
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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)
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Similar Chord Progressions
1. “Dear Prudence” by The Beatles
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D (I) – C (♭VII) – G (IV) – A (V) – D (I)
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2. “Glycerine” by Bush
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Bm (i) – A (VII) – E (IV) – G♯ (III+) – Bm (i)
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3. “I Will Follow You into the Dark” by Death Cab for Cutie
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A (I) – E (V) – A (I) – F♯m (vi) – D (IV) – A/C♯ (I6) – Bm (ii) – E (V)
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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.
What are the chords in: Radiohead – You And Whose Army – Bridge?
C#m, C#m/B, C#m/A#, F#, C#m, C#m/B, C#m/A#, F#, C#m, E, F#, C#
