All Modes
Degree III

Phrygian Mode

Spanish Darkness, Dark & Exotic

Interval Formula
H W W W H W W
C 1
Db 2
Eb 3
F 4
G 5
Ab 6
Bb 7
C

Overview

Phrygian is defined by its distinctive lowered 2nd degree - a half step above the root. This creates an immediate sense of darkness and tension. It is the sound of flamenco guitar, heavy metal riffs, and exotic film scores. The half-step clash between root and 2nd is its signature sound.

The bII chord (the Neapolitan) built on Phrygian's second degree is often called the "Phrygian cadence" and is one of the most recognizable harmonic moves in all of music. In E Phrygian, this is the F major chord, a semitone away from the root, creating a powerful tension and release. Flamenco music is built almost entirely on this relationship.

Pro Tip: Phrygian Dominant (with a raised 3rd) is even more common in Middle Eastern and flamenco music - it's Phrygian with a major 3rd.

Famous Examples

  • White Zombie by Rob Zombie
  • War by Joe Satriani
  • Wherever I May Roam by Metallica
  • La Grange by ZZ Top (Phrygian-influenced)

Characteristic Chord Progression

i – bII – i – bII
In E: Em – F major – Em – F major

Common Genres

FlamencoMetalMiddle EasternFilm Scores

Visualize Phrygian Mode

See Phrygian highlighted on a piano keyboard. Change the root note to explore all 12 keys.

Mode Ionian
Root C
Character Bright & Major
Scale Notes
Interval Pattern