Super Locrian (Altered Scale)
Modal Structure
The Super Locrian (or Altered scale) is mode VII of melodic minor. It contains every possible alteration of the dominant scale and is the definitive jazz scale for altered dominant chord resolution.
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Formula | H-W-H-W-W-W-W |
| C Super Locrian (Altered Scale) Notes | C, C#, D#, E, F#, G#, A# |
| Scale Degrees | 1 - ♭2 - ♭3 - ♭4 - ♭5 - ♭6 - ♭7 |
| Parent Scale | C Super Locrian is the 7th mode of Db Melodic Minor |
Characteristic Notes & Sound
- Characteristic Note
- Diminished 4th + flat 5 (altered dominant scale)
- Tonal Color
- Maximum tension — jazz altered dominant improvisation
Genre Context & Song Examples
Super Locrian (Altered Scale) is the jazz improviser's tool for maximum tension over dominant 7#9 and 7b9 chords, resolving to the tonic.
- Used over dominant 7#9 chords in jazz
- Hendrix chord contexts
Diatonic Chords
| Degree | C Super Locrian (Altered Scale) Chord | Triad Quality |
|---|---|---|
| I | C Diminished | Diminished |
| II | C# Minor | Minor |
| III | D# Minor | Minor |
| IV | E Augmented | Augmented |
| V | F# Major | Major |
| VI | G# Major | Major |
| VII | A# Diminished | Diminished |
Related Scales & Keys
Full Super Locrian (Altered Scale) scale reference — all 12 keys with note names, diatonic chords, and key signatures.
Major Scale reference — see how modes relate to the parent major scale.