Common Songs That Use the Enigmatic Scale: Ear Candy and Practice Ideas

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The enigmatic scale, also known as the exotic or mysterious scale, has fascinated musicians for centuries. Its unique intervals create a sound that is both intriguing and otherworldly, making it a popular choice for composers and performers seeking to add a touch of mystery to their music. In this article, we explore some common songs that utilize the enigmatic scale, along with ear training and practice ideas to incorporate this scale into your playing.

Understanding the Enigmatic Scale

The enigmatic scale is a symmetrical scale that typically consists of the following intervals: half step, augmented second, half step, whole step, half step, augmented second, half step. Its distinctive sound is characterized by a sense of ambiguity and tension, making it ideal for creating mood and atmosphere in music. Musicians often use it in jazz, classical, and world music to evoke a sense of mystery or exoticism.

  • “The Girl from Ipanema” (Jazz standard) – features passages that utilize the enigmatic scale to evoke a Latin, exotic feel.
  • “Karma Police” by Radiohead – employs the scale in its haunting melodies and atmospheric sections.
  • “Black Magic Woman” by Santana – uses the scale to enhance its mystical vibe.
  • “Riders on the Storm” by The Doors – incorporates the scale in its improvisations and background textures.
  • “The Rite of Spring” by Igor Stravinsky – features sections that explore the enigmatic scale to create primitive and mysterious effects.

Ear Training and Practice Ideas

Developing your ability to recognize and use the enigmatic scale can add a new dimension to your musical vocabulary. Here are some practice ideas:

  • Scale Ascension and Descension: Practice ascending and descending the scale slowly, focusing on the unique intervals and their sound.
  • Interval Recognition: Isolate the augmented second intervals within the scale and train your ear to identify them in context.
  • Improvise over Chord Progressions: Use backing tracks or a looper to improvise melodies using the enigmatic scale, experimenting with different rhythmic patterns.
  • Transcribe Solos: Listen to recordings of songs that feature the scale and transcribe the solos to understand how musicians incorporate it into their phrasing.
  • Compose Melodies: Write short melodies or motifs using the enigmatic scale to familiarize yourself with its sound and character.

Conclusion

The enigmatic scale offers a rich palette of sounds for musicians seeking to add mystery and depth to their compositions and improvisations. By studying its use in popular songs and practicing targeted exercises, you can unlock new creative possibilities and enhance your musical expression.