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Chord Progression Builder

i–♭VII–♭VI–V: Phrygian Metal Drive

Em–D–C–B is the archetypal descending minor engine, but the real payoff is the last chord. Em, D, and C feel like natural Aeolian color, then B major introduces D# and snaps the ear toward Em with harmonic-minor gravity. That raised leading tone is why the loop sounds so tense and purposeful in metal, flamenco-influenced rock, and trailer-style cinematic cues. Voice leading is straightforward: keep B as a common tone between Em and B, and let the bass line (E–D–C–B) do most of the storytelling. For guitar, palm-mute the first three chords and open up on B to spotlight the tension. For songwriting, sustain a single melody note like G across the first three chords, then shift to F# or D# over B to make the return to Em hit like a release.

Key
E minor
Tempo
148 BPM
Groove
rock
Open in BuilderMore rock

Play it on guitar

Start slow, keep your right hand steady, and aim for clean changes on the downbeats. Once it’s comfortable, add a groove and increase tempo.

Capo suggestion: try capo 0 and play in E shapes for open chords.

Chords: Em – D – C – B

Roman numerals & theory

Roman numerals describe the chord’s function relative to the key. This helps you transpose the “shape” to any key without memorizing new chord names.

Variations (keep the progression, change the feel)

  • • Add 7ths for color (try maj7 on I, m7 on vi, and V7 before resolving).
  • • Use a sus4 resolve on the V chord (e.g. Gsus4 → G) to create tension and release.
  • • Change the rhythm instead of the chords: try anticipations (hit the next chord on the “and” of 4).
  • • Arpeggiate the top notes to create a hook while the harmony stays the same.
  • • Borrow a darker chord for contrast (in a major key, try iv for one bar before returning).

Related

More rockMore in E minorLearn guitar progressions

FAQ

What chords are in i–♭VII–♭VI–V: Phrygian Metal Drive?
In E minor, a common spelling is: Em – D – C – B. Use the “Open in Builder” button to hear it with a groove and adjust tempo.
What key is this progression in?
This page’s example is in E minor. You can transpose the idea to other keys (often with a capo) while keeping the same progression shape.
How do I play this progression on guitar?
Start with clean chord changes at a slow BPM. For open chords, try capo 0 and play in E shapes, then increase tempo once the groove feels steady.
How can I make it sound more interesting?
Keep the progression but add movement: sus4 resolves, 7ths, or a stronger V7 before returning to I. Rhythm and dynamics usually create the biggest “upgrade” on guitar.
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Your Progression

Select a chord below to start building your progression

Drums: 75%
Humanize
Sustain: 95%
BPM: 120
Bar — / —
Key: C major
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