Sound Character: This scale has a strongly exotic sound, with a flavor that immediately recalls the musical traditions of the Middle East or Central Asia. The presence of the minor second and major third creates a very distinctive and fascinating contrast.
Typical Chord: Can be harmonized with ambiguous major triads, but often used on drones or static accompaniments.
Modal Context: Does not belong to the modes of the major or minor scale. It is used to color melodies or pieces with ethnic or oriental settings.
Harmonic Use: Often used in modal music, film scores, and to create moments of tension or mystery with an exotic flavor.
Musical Context
Musical Styles: World music, Soundtracks, Jazz fusion, Experimental metal
Songs using the scale:
Misirlou – Dick Dale
Exotic – Bill Haley
Desert Rose – Sting
Arabian Knights – Siouxsie and the Banshees
Evoked Atmosphere: Exotic, mysterious, evocative of distant lands, sands, and ancient rituals.
