Chapter 3: Chord Progressions and Harmony

Using Extended Chords for Depth

In Deep Wave music, extended chords provide an essential layer of harmonic richness and emotional complexity. They transform basic chord progressions into captivating soundscapes that resonate deeply with listeners. This chapter explores the concept of extended chords, how to use them effectively, and their role in creating depth and atmosphere in your compositions.

1. Understanding Extended Chords

Extended chords are chords that include additional notes beyond the basic triad. Common extensions include the seventh, ninth, eleventh, and thirteenth notes. These additional tones add tension, joy, and sophistication to music, enriching the harmonic texture.

a. Definitions of Common Extensions:

  • Seventh (7): Adds the seventh degree of the scale to the triad (e.g., Cmaj7 includes the notes C, E, G, B).
  • Ninth (9): Incorporates the ninth degree, adding another layer of complexity (e.g., C9 includes C, E, G, Bb, D).
  • Eleventh (11): Further expands the chord by including the eleventh degree (e.g., C11 includes C, E, G, Bb, D, F).
  • Thirteenth (13): Encompasses the thirteenth degree, creating a lush sound (e.g., C13 includes C, E, G, Bb, D, F, A).

2. Enhancing Chord Progressions with Extensions

a. Incorporating Extended Chords:

  • Substituting Basic Chords: Replace standard triads in your progressions with their extended versions. For example, instead of playing a C major chord (C - E - G), use Cmaj7 (C - E - G - B) to provide a richer sound.
  • Experimenting with Extensions: When experimenting, you can often substitute a basic triad for its seventh or ninth version without altering the feel of the progression too dramatically.

b. Textural Complexity:

  • Background Texture: Use extended chords as background textures underneath the main melodies. The added harmonics will create a warm, enveloping atmosphere without overwhelming the mix.
  • Layering Techniques: When layering sounds, use extended chords to create a fuller audio environment. Combine a pad sound with a plucky synth playing the same extended harmonic structure to enhance the richness of the sound.

3. Voice Leading and Extended Chords

a. Smooth Transitions:

  • Minimize Movement: When transitioning between extended chords, keep voice leading smooth. Aim to move the least amount of distance between notes for a cohesive sound.
  • Common Tones: Maintain common tones across transitions to further unify your harmonic progression, as this will prevent abrupt changes in sound.

4. Using Extended Chords in Different Contexts

a. Creating Ambiance:

  • Lush Pads: Use extended chords to form lush pads that provide an atmospheric undercurrent in your tracks. Choose soft synth sounds that highlight the harmonic content without being overly pronounced.
  • Arpeggiated Structures: Create flowing arpeggios based on extended chords to develop melodic patterns that evoke a sense of movement and progression.

b. Rhythmic Application:

  • Different Rhythmic Patterns: Play around with the rhythm of your extended chords. Syncopated patterns or off-beat accents can provide a unique groove that energizes the track, enhancing the danceability.
  • Creating Tension and Release: Use these chords in dynamic sections to create tension leading into choruses or drops. Shift from extended chords to simpler triads for a satisfying resolve back to the core emotional feeling of the track.

5. Practical Examples of Extended Chord Use

a. Example Progression:

Consider the progression Cmaj7 - Em7 - Am7 - Dm7:

  • Cmaj7 to Em7: Here, the transition from the major 7th chord to the minor 7th keeps the flow and maintains a sense of lift while introducing a slight change in mood.
  • Am7 to Dm7: This transition feels natural, emphasizing smooth voice leading through common tones (A and D in Am7 can easily move to Dm7).

6. Conclusion

Using extended chords is a powerful way to create depth, emotion, and sophistication in your Deep Wave tracks. By substituting basic triads with their extended forms, exploring voice leading techniques, and applying these chords in various contexts, you can significantly enrich your compositions. In the next chapter, we will explore melody construction and how to craft memorable melodies that intertwine with your harmonic progressions, enhancing the overall impact of your music.