i–♭VI–♭VII–♭III in E Minor

Pattern: i – ♭VI – ♭VII – ♭III Chords: Em – C – D – G

Chord Breakdown

Numeral	Chord	Type	Function
i	Em (details)	minor	Tonic
♭VI	C (details)	major	Submediant
♭VII	D (details)	major	Subtonic
♭III	G (details)	major	Mediant

Harmonic Analysis

This progression moves through Em (Tonic) → C (Submediant) → D (Subtonic) → G (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

Em C D G

More Progressions in E 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