Music Theory Alchemy

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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.

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.

Radiohead – You And Whose Army – Ending

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Chord Progression

A, C#m, B-5, B-5

Chord Progression Analysis

A (I): A major triad
C#m (vi): C# minor triad
B-5 (V(no3)): B power chord (no third)
B-5 (V(no3)): B power chord (no third)

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Borrowed Chords: None in this progression
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Similar Chord Progressions

1. Oasis – “Wonderwall”:
D (I) – Dsus4 (Isus4) – Dmaj7 (Imaj7) – D6 (I6)

2. The Beatles – “Let It Be”:
C (I) – G (V) – Am (vi) – F (IV) – C (I) – G (V) – F (IV) – C (I)

3. Nirvana – “Smells Like Teen Spirit”:
Fm (i) – Bb5 (IV(no3)) – Ab5 (III(no3)) – Db5 (VI(no3))

Although these chord progressions by other artists have different chords, they share certain characteristics, such as the use of power chords, and the blending of major and minor chords, which is a common feature in various genres of rock music.

Musical Analysis

The progression begins with the A major chord (I) which establishes A as the tonic or key center of the piece. Following the tonic chord is the C#m chord (vi), which is the relative minor of the E major (IV) chord, and it provides a darker, more melancholic sound.

The next two chords are the same B-5 power chord, serving as a V(no3) chord. The absence of a third in the B-5 chord adds an ambiguous quality to the chord, which is a common technique in various kinds of rock music, including Radiohead’s alternative rock style. The repetition of the B-5 chord creates a sense of tension and anticipation that may give the listener the expectation of a return back to the A major chord (I), completing the musical phrase.

Overall Analysis

The given chord progression for the ending of Radiohead’s “You And Whose Army?” is in the key of A major. There are four chords in the progression: A, C#m, B-5, and B-5. Overall, it follows a relatively simple harmonic structure that incorporates power chords and a chromatic neighbor tone in the bass.

Style Analysis

In the context of Radiohead’s alternative rock style, this chord progression showcases some essential elements, such as the use of power chords and mixing major and minor chords. The progression is simple yet effective in evoking emotion, which is a notable characteristic of many Radiohead songs. The use of the B-5 power chord adds texture and depth to the otherwise straightforward harmonic structure.

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

A, C#m, B-5, B-5