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Related Music Theory Alchemy

“Yes I’m Changing” by Tame Impala uses a repetitive chord progression throughout the majority of the song, alternating primarily between the chords C, Csus2, Cadd9, Am, F, and G. This pattern is characterized by constant resolution with the tonic of the key, C Major. However, the progression occasionally diverges from the typical diatonic pattern by introducing a G Major chord, which is a V chord in the C Major scale.

The song “Let It Happen” by Tame Impala, which is in the key of A Major, uses a simple yet effective chord progression during its outro. The common pattern of I-vi-IIIIV (Major-minor-Suspended 4) recurs throughout. The G#sus4 chord provides a moment of tension before resolving back to the tonic and restarting the pattern. The progression concludes with an Emaj7 chord, which is a borrowed chord from the parallel minor.

Tame Impala’s “Let It Happen” is a song in A major key. The chord progression seems simple at first, with a repetitive motive throughout the verse but it creates a hypnotic effect that is very much in line with Tame Impala’s psychedelic style.

The progression starts on the suspended II chord of the key, which anticipates resolution either to the tonic (E major) or the supertonic (F# minor). However, it instead moves to the dominant minor (C# minor), suggesting a borrowed chord from the parallel minor (E minor). The D major chord which concludes the progression is a borrowed II from E minor as well.

“Two Weeks” by Grizzly Bear exhibits a common pop chord progression and harmonic rhythm. The chords are primarily in root position, which contributes to the song’s straightforward and accessible sound. Stylistically, the track shows the band’s indie-rock influences and features a prominent piano part that drives the harmony.

Alter Ego

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All Analyses by Song

This chord progression from the verse of Tame Impala’s “Alter Ego” suggests a key of C major due to the recurring instances of Cmaj7. However, the presence of certain chords like Bm7 and Dm suggests that Kevin Parker is creatively “borrowing” chords from the parallel and associated keys (C minor, D minor) to create colorful departures from the primary tonality. The use of extended chords (7ths) and suspended chords (Bsus4) adds a sense of complexity and sophistication to the harmony. As can be seen, the chord progression mostly oscillates between Cmaj7, Bsus4, Bm7 before moving to Dm and Gm towards the end of the verse.

This chord progression is in the key of Am. The work can be seen as a mix of the Western tonal harmony, incorporating the use of inversions alongside nondiatonic chords. Tame Impala employs the elements of neo-psychedelia with unique chord progressions and arrangements. The alteration between two chords creates a revolving feeling, reinforcing the title “alter ego”.