i–♭VII–♭VI–♭V in C♯ Minor
Pattern: i – ♭VII – ♭VI – ♭V
Chords: C♯m – B – A – G
Chord Breakdown
| Numeral | Chord | Type | Function |
|---|---|---|---|
| i | C♯m (details) | minor | Tonic |
| ♭VII | B (details) | major | Subtonic |
| ♭VI | A (details) | major | Submediant |
| ♭V | G (details) | major | Dominant |
Harmonic Analysis
This progression moves through C♯m (Tonic) → B (Subtonic) → A (Submediant) → G (Dominant).
The i–♭VII–♭VI–♭V progression descends chromatically through four semitone-related chords, creating a relentless downward pull. The tritone-related ♭V adds extreme dissonance and darkness. This progression is a hallmark of doom metal and dark progressive rock.
Song Examples
- Black Sabbath, Black Sabbath
- Hallowed Be Thy Name (intro), Iron Maiden