Phrygian Mode

    minor

    Dark, Spanish, exotic, tense

    The Phrygian mode has a distinctive flat 2nd degree that creates a dark, Spanish, or Middle Eastern flavor. It's the darkest of the minor modes.

    Key Characteristics

    • Flat 2nd (the defining "Spanish" sound)
    • Minor 3rd
    • Minor 7th
    • Exotic, dark quality

    Famous Examples

    • White Rabbit - Jefferson Airplane
    • War - Joe Satriani
    • Wherever I May Roam - Metallica
    Flamenco
    Metal
    Progressive Rock
    Fusion

    Quick Tips

    • 1.The b2 to root resolution is iconic - use it!
    • 2.Great for building tension in metal riffs
    • 3.Creates an immediate Spanish/flamenco flavor
    • 4.Use the i - bII movement for authentic Phrygian progressions

    All Modes