Phrygian
The Phrygian mode is similar to the Aeolian: it has a flatted third, sixth, and seventh, but it also has a flatted second. This flatted second makes the Phrygian mode even darker than the Aeolian mode.
The Phrygian mode has somewhat of an exotic sound, and is rarely used in popular music—especially in comparison to the Dorian and Aeolian modes. If you are limited with your practice time, devote more of it to mastering the Dorian and Aeolian modes.
To make the Phrygian mode in any key, flat the second, third, sixth, and seventh degrees of the scale.
C Phrygian
| Notes | C | D ♭ | E ♭ | F | G | A ♭ | B ♭ |
| Intervals | 1 | ♭ 2 | ♭ 3 | 4 | 5 | ♭ 6 | ♭ 7 |
| Intervals | Half step |
Whole step |
Whole step |
Whole step |
Half step |
Whole step |
♭=flatted
Listen to Phrygian w/gtr, which features Rob playing this exotic mode. Then you can practice C Phrygian by jamming with the IntroTrack, Phrygian w/out gtr.
Marrakesh w/gtr is an exotic little tune that features Rob using the mode. Listen to how he elaborates melodies and ideas. Now try Marrakesh without guitar and lay into those minor seconds and sixths!
Great Guitar Solos Using the Phrygian Mode
Surfing with the Alien, Joe Satriani
(Phrygian mode with a major third)
Enter Sandman, Metallica
Fade to Black, Metallica
