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Related Music Theory Alchemy

Sigur Rós, an Icelandic post-rock band known for their ethereal sound and experimental use of various instruments, has crafted a unique chord progression in their piece “Hoppipolla.” This progression features six chords that change mode from D# Mixolydian to G# Dorian. The chords used are D#maj, E, B, G#m, F#, and E. Sigur Rós blends the modal interchange with their distinct soundscapes, evoking a dreamy atmosphere fitting for the post-rock genre.

“Hoppipolla” by Sigur Rós is a dreamy and atmospheric piece that showcases the band’s unique style. The chord progression in the verse consists of D#m, E, D#m, and E chords, which creates a simple and elegant harmonic structure. The use of open strings and melodically moving chords in this progression reflects the ethereal nature of this piece. This progression can be found in both rock and alternative music genres, as it uses the powerful major and minor chords found throughout these styles. The repetitive nature of the chord progression mirrors the band’s tendency to use slow-building and evolving textures in their compositions.

The chord progression in the chorus of Radiohead’s “Knives Out” is an interesting and unconventional one, making use of some borrowed chords and a mix of major and minor tonalities. The overall style of the song can be described as alternative rock with some influences of jazz harmony and chromaticism, creating a unique and moody atmosphere. The progression is mostly diatonic, but it also incorporates some borrowed chords from parallel modes to add color and tension.

“Right Where It Belongs” by Nine Inch Nails is a song characterized by its melodic and harmonic structure. It has a unique yet familiar sound, blending pop and alternative rock elements with its rich chord progression and powerful melody.

“Goodbye Yellow Brick Road,” written by Elton John and Bernie Taupin, is characterized by a lush, cinematic melody that encapsulates John’s knack for crafting pop ballad choruses. Its base key is D Major, showcasing a mix of diatonic, dominant seventh, and borrowed chords. Its diverse chord progression is reflective of Elton John’s diverse influences, which include pop, rock, blues, and classical music.

Sigur Rós – Hoppipolla – Chorus

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Chord Progression

B, F#, E, D#m, B, F#, E, F#

Chord Progression Analysis

B Major (I) – F# Major (V) – E Major (IV) – D# Minor (iii) – B Major (I) – F# Major (V) – E Major (IV) – F# Major (V)

Similar Chord Progressions

1. Coldplay – “Clocks”:
D Major (I) – A Major (V) – B Minor (vi) – G Major (IV) – D Major (I) – A Major (V) – B minor (vi) – A Major (V)

2. Radiohead – “Karma Police”:
A minor (i) – E minor/G (v/♭VII) – G Major (♭VII) – D Major (IV) – F# Minor (vi) – F Major (♭VI)

These two examples show similar cyclical chord progressions, with mixture of diatonic and borrowed chords, and a sense of constant motion. Although they are in different keys and feature slightly different progressions, the overall structure and harmonic movements have similarities to “Hoppipolla” by Sigur Rós, showcasing the versatility and emotional impact of such progressions in modern music.

Musical Analysis

The progression starts with the tonic chord, B Major (I), establishing the key of the piece. It then moves to the dominant chord, F# Major (V), creating a sense of tension. This tension is then temporarily resolved by moving to the subdominant E Major (IV) chord. The subsequent D# Minor (iii) can be seen as a borrowed chord from the parallel minor key (B minor).

The progression then cycles back to the tonic B Major (I), F# Major (V), and E Major (IV), creating a sense of familiarity and grounding. The progression ends with F# Major (V), which has a strong pull back to the tonic (B Major), making the progression cyclical and seamless.

Overall Analysis

The chord progression in the chorus of “Hoppipolla” by Sigur Rós can be considered as being in the key of B Major, featuring a mixture of diatonic and borrowed chords. The progression shows Sigur Rós’ signature atmospheric and emotive style, utilizing various harmonic techniques to create a lush chord progression.

Style Analysis

Sigur Rós is known for their atmospheric, ethereal, and cinematic sound, often using unique chord progressions, textures, and extended harmonies. In “Hoppipolla,” the band employs a mixture of diatonic chords and borrowing from the parallel minor to create a unique and lush progression that fits their signature style. Furthermore, the cyclical nature of the progression lends a sense of constant motion, adding to the overall mood of the piece.

Chords in the Chorus section of Hoppipolla by Sigur Rós are:

B, F#, E, D#m, B, F#, E, F#