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The chord progression in Weezer’s “Perfect Situation” is a simple and repetitive progression that cycles through three chords, G, D, and Am, with D being used as a transitional or “passing” chord. This progression is based on the I – V – ii structure in the key of G major.

The chorus maintains a feeling of resolution and tension by alternating between the IV (F major) and V (G major) chords, while the vi (A minor) to V/vi (E major) progression provides a smooth transition back to the IV chord (F major).

In terms of borrowed chords, the E Major is a borrowed chord.
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E major (V/vi)
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Nine Inch Nails’ “Closer” is a unique blend of industrial rock, electronica, and alternative styles that has propelled the song to prominence as one of the band’s most famous and frequently played tracks. The song is in the key of E major and features a recurring chord progression throughout its various sections.

“Perfect” by The Smashing Pumpkins is written in the key of D major. The song takes a relatively standard and common approach in chord progression, particularly with the cyclical variations that have the onset within a classic pop/rock realm. The tonality and mid-tempo pacing give the song a melancholic and nostalgic tone.

“I Am The Walrus” is a composition by The Beatles in which the song varies in key and progressive elements, with fascinating uses of borrowed chords from parallel modes and chromatic bass motion. The melody resides predominantly within a pentatonic framework, frequently rotating around subversions. The Bridge section beautifully showcases Beatles’ experimentation with descending chord progression built around chromatic movement.

Weezer – Perfect Situation – Bridge

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Chord Progression

Em, Bm, C, D, Em, Bm, C, D

Chord Progression Analysis

E minor (i) – B minor (iv) – C major (VII) – D major (VIII)
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Em (i) – Bm (iv) – C (∨II) – D (∨III)
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Similar Chord Progressions

1. Green Day – “Wake Me Up When September Ends”
E minor (i) – C major (VII) – G major (III) – D major (VIII)
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Em (i) – C (∨II) – G (∨III) – D (∨III)
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2. Nirvana – “Come As You Are”
E minor (i) – G major (III) – D major (VIII) – A major (IV)
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Em (i) – G (∨III) – D (∨III) – A (∨I)
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3. Oasis – “Wonderwall”
E minor (i) – G major (III) – D major (VIII) – A7 (IV7)
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Em (i) – G (∨III) – D (∨III) – A7 (∨I7)
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These songs share similarities with the chord progression found in the bridge of “Perfect Situation” by Weezer, using a mix of major and minor chords, and with some chords borrowed from parallel modes or other related keys. The blend of tension and resolution and the use of Dorian elements make these progressions engaging and contribute to the overall appeal of the songs in the rock and alternative genres.

Musical Analysis

The chord progression features the tonic E minor chord, providing a sense of resolution. The B minor chord functions as the subdominant (iv) and adds a flavor of tension and melancholy to the progression. The C major and D major chords are borrowed from the E Dorian mode, which gives a more uplifting and bright sound compared to standard E Aeolian mode. These two chords lead back to the E minor chord, providing a sense of resolution in the progression.

Overall Analysis

“Perfect Situation” by Weezer is a rock song with a combination of major and minor chords, giving it a feeling of both tension and resolution. The chord progression in the bridge features a i-iv-VII-VIII pattern in the key of E minor, which is common in rock and pop music. The bridge consists mainly of triads with some possible extensions or added notes depending on how they are voiced.

Style Analysis

The bridge of “Perfect Situation” showcases Weezer’s ability to craft catchy melodies and progressions that are typical of alternative rock and power-pop styles. The use of the E Dorian mode helps create an uplifting sound that contrasts with some of the darker tones found in the verses and remains a staple in the band’s music. This blend of major and minor chords also adds variety and interest to their songwriting.

Chords in the Bridge section of Perfect Situation by Weezer are:

Em, Bm, C, D, Em, Bm, C, D