Db Locrian Mode
Db – Ebb – Fb – Gb – Abb – Bbb – Cb
Formula:H-W-W-H-W-W-W
Intervals:P1-m2-m3-P4-d5-m6-m7-P8
Scale Degrees:1-♭2-♭3-4-♭5-♭6-♭7-8
Introduction
The Db Locrian mode is the seventh mode of the Ebb Major scale. It has a diminished quality with flatted second and fifth degrees, the most dissonant of the seven modes.
Db Locrian Mode Notes
| Degree | Name | Note | Interval |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Tonic | Db4 | P1 |
| ♭2 | Supertonic | Ebb4 | m2 |
| ♭3 | Mediant | Fb4 | m3 |
| 4 | Subdominant | Gb4 | P4 |
| ♭5 | Dominant | Abb4 | d5 |
| ♭6 | Submediant | Bbb4 | m6 |
| ♭7 | Leading Tone | Cb5 | m7 |
| 8 | Octave | Db5 | P8 |
Db Locrian Mode — Frequently Asked Questions
What notes are in the Db Locrian mode?
Db Locrian contains: Db, Ebb, Fb, Gb, Abb, Bbb, Cb. Seventh mode of Ebb Major. Enharmonic of C# Locrian.
How does Db Locrian differ from Db Natural Minor?
Flatted 2nd and flatted 5th. The diminished tonic is the hallmark.
What is the parent major scale?
Seventh mode of Ebb Major (enharmonically D Major).
How is Db Locrian used in music?
Over Dbm7b5 chords. Metal, progressive jazz. C# Locrian is more commonly written.
What chords are built from Db Locrian?
Dbdim, Ebb, Fbm, Gbm, Abb, Bbb, Cbm. Diminished tonic.
What songs use Locrian?
Progressive metal, experimental jazz.
Practice Tips
- Db Locrian and C# Locrian are enharmonic.
- Diminished tonic — the most unstable mode.
- Over Dbm7b5 chords in jazz.
- Translate to C# Locrian for easier reading.
- Metal applications for maximum darkness.
- Compare with Db Phrygian.