Phrygian & Mixolydian: Guitar Modal Series Part 2
Expanding Your Harmonic Palette
In our last guide, we explored the Dorian mode. Today, we move into two of the most distinct "flavors" in modern guitar: the dark, exotic phrygian scale guitar patterns and the soulful, blues-driven g mixolydian scale. Understanding these two modes will allow you to play over almost any common chord progression with confidence.
1. Phrygian: The Spanish Sound
The Phrygian mode is the 3rd mode of the Major scale. Its defining characteristic is the Flattened 2nd (b2). This minor second interval between the root and the first note creates a sense of dread, tension, and exoticism.
Phrygian Intervals:
Root, b2, b3, 4, 5, b6, b7
🎼 E Phrygian Secret
E Phrygian is the most common for guitarists because it uses the open E string as the root. If you play the notes of C Major starting and ending on E, you are playing E Phrygian. It's the "Heavy Metal" and "Flamenco" scale of choice.
2. Mixolydian: The Blues Heart
The mixolydian scale is the 5th mode of the Major scale. It sounds almost exactly like a standard Major scale (Ionian), but with a Flattened 7th (b7). This one note makes it the perfect choice for soloing over Dominant 7th chords.
Mixolydian Intervals:
Root, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, b7
Using a g mixolydian scale over a G7 chord is the foundation of Blues, Classic Rock, and Funk. It provides that "relaxed" yet "driving" feel that a standard major scale lacks.
3. Quick Mode Comparison
| Mode | Parent Key | Defining Note | Vibe |
|---|---|---|---|
| Phrygian | 3rd Degree | Flattened 2nd (b2) | Dark, Exotic, Spanish |
| Mixolydian | 5th Degree | Flattened 7th (b7) | Bluesy, Stable, Funky |
4. Practice Patterns
To master the c phrygian scale or the d mixolydian scale, don't just play them up and down. Try "3-note-per-string" patterns to build speed, or use them as a "tonal center" for a simple one-chord drone in your DAW.