Spoon

Spoon is a fully modal composition performed at a medium tempo (129 BPM). Since the number of chords available in a modal composition is relatively limited—being based primarily on chords that contain the characteristic note of the mode—a modulation to a different mode and key is introduced in one of the sections in order to provide greater harmonic contrast.

The song begins with an introduction built on the chords Em and F#m7, both belonging to the E Dorian mode. In addition, the introduction features a percussion part performed with a spoon, a traditional percussion technique that provides a distinctive rhythmic character and reinforces the piece's funk feel.

The composition then moves into Section A, where the E Dorian mode is maintained. In this section, the ♭VIIImaj7 chord is used to enrich the harmonic language and because of its function as the V7 of G minor, preparing the modulation to the following section.

The music subsequently modulates to Section B, establishing G Phrygian as the new modal center. This section also features the ♭IImaj7 chord, which is characteristic of the Phrygian mode, as well as the ♭VIIm7 chord, which functions as a passing chord in the final measure, facilitating the return to E Dorian.

During the second repetition, a bass solo is introduced, accompanied by syncopated guitar chords. The solo develops throughout both Sections A and B, maintaining the modal coherence of the composition before returning to the main theme.