i–♭VI–♭VII–♭III in C Minor

Pattern: i – ♭VI – ♭VII – ♭III Chords: Cm – A♭ – B♭ – E♭

Chord Breakdown

Numeral	Chord	Type	Function
i	Cm (details)	minor	Tonic
♭VI	A♭ (details)	major	Submediant
♭VII	B♭ (details)	major	Subtonic
♭III	E♭ (details)	major	Mediant

Harmonic Analysis

This progression moves through Cm (Tonic) → A♭ (Submediant) → B♭ (Subtonic) → E♭ (Mediant).

The i–♭VI–♭VII–♭III progression loops through the natural minor scale's major chords, ending on the relative major instead of resolving to the dominant. This avoids traditional resolution, creating a perpetual, driving cycle. The pattern is a favorite in thrash metal and hardcore punk for its relentless energy.

Song Examples

Holy Wars...The Punishment Due — Megadeth
Walk — Pantera

Chord Details

Cm A♭ B♭ E♭

More Progressions in C Minor

i–♭VII–♭VI–V i–iv–v vi–IV–I–V i–iv–i–V iv–iv–i–V i–iv–i i–iv–V vi–V–IV–III i–♭VII i–♭III–♭VII i–♭VII–IV i–♭VII–♭VI