Phrygian Mode
Dark, exotic, Spanish, mysterious
Phrygian on the Fretboard
Showing E Phrygian across the neck (frets 0–12). Orange = root, blue = characteristic note.
Understanding Phrygian
Phrygian is defined by its ♭2 — a half step right above the root. This creates an immediately recognizable 'Spanish' or 'Middle Eastern' sound that's unlike any other mode.
The Characteristic Note
That ♭2 interval (E to F in E Phrygian) is the mode's signature. Play an Em chord and let the F note ring against it — that tension IS the Phrygian sound. It's exotic, dark, and dramatic.
Chords & Progressions
The i–♭II movement (Em–F in E Phrygian) is the quintessential Phrygian progression. Flamenco guitar is built on this sound. Metal bands use Phrygian extensively for its aggressive darkness.
Diatonic Chords in E Phrygian
Em7, Fmaj7, G7, Am7, Bm7♭5, Cmaj7, Dm7
Genres & Artists
Flamenco, metal, Middle Eastern music, film scores
Quick Reference
| Mode Number | III |
| Formula | 1 ♭2 ♭3 4 5 ♭6 ♭7 |
| Step Pattern | H W W W H W W |
| Notes (from E) | E F G A B C D |
| Quality | Minor |
| Characteristic Note | ♭2 (F) — the half step above the root |
| Genres | Flamenco, metal, Middle Eastern music, film scores |