Interval Analysis

In order to make a better progression module that retains both originality and coherence, I need a method for evaluating certain qualities of progressions. One can break progressions into individual chords for easier analysis. Even better, one can break chords down into intervals for the most specific analysis. Intervals, which are more specific than individual notes, yet more general than chords, provide a good basis upon which to judge qualities of chords and progressions with fair accuracy.

I made up three criteria for intervals and evaluated every interval in the minor key based on the criteria (which have values between one a five, inclusive). Higher mood values indicate a 'happier' feel while low mood values indicate a 'somber' feel. High suspense values indicate a sense of tension in the interval, while low values designate chords with greater stability. Low consonance values indicate a clashing of harmonics, which high values indicate a relatively consonant interval.

Below is the table of intervals and quality values I wrote down. 'Bad' intervals, or those with a consonance value of 1 have been marked in red.

Interval: Mood, Suspense, Consonance
1-2: 1,5,2
1-3: 2,2,5
1-4: 2,3,4
1-5: 3,4,4
1-6: 2,4,4
1-7: 2,3,2

2-3: 1,4,1
2-4: 3,2,3
2-5: 2,3,3
2-6: 2,5,1
2-7: 4,2,4

3-4: 3,4,2
3-5: 4,2,4
3-6: 5,1,5
3-7: 5,2,4

4-5: 3,4,2
4-6: 3,3,3
4-7: 4,3,3

5-6: 3,4,1
5-7: 4,2,4

6-7: 4,4,1

Trance: Bass and Progression

Today I worked on a generative module for trance-style bass and a progression module for trance-style chords. The bass is relatively simple, most trance just uses a heavy octaving bass that holds a steady beat. As for the progressions, trance usually keeps it pretty simple and almost always in a minor key.

I've got some really simple results out of the bass and progression modules, culminating in a really simple cheesy piece that inspires the urge to bang one's head repeatedly against a brick wall to the beat of the bass. Nevertheless, progress is progress. You have to start somewhere.