Locrian Mode

The Darkest Mode — b2 and b5

The Locrian mode follows the pattern H-W-W-H-W-W-W.

Starting from B: B-C-D-E-F-G-A.

Locrian is like a Phrygian mode with an additional lowered 5th degree. Its two characteristic tones are the b2 (inherited from Phrygian) and the b5 (the feature unique to Locrian). That lowered 5th is why Locrian is called the 'diminished' mode — the tonic chord is a diminished triad.

Locrian is rarely used as a key center in traditional music because the diminished root feels unstable. It shows up in jazz over m7b5 chords, in metal for tension, and as a color in modal improvisation. Learning Locrian is learning the farthest corner of the modal landscape.

B Locrian Scale

Study the B Locrian scale ascending. Notice the half-step from B to C (the b2) and the tritone from B to F (the b5).

Play B Locrian

• Play the B Locrian scale ascending and descending
• Feel both characteristic notes: the b2 (C) and the b5 (F)
• Resist the urge to resolve — Locrian is the darkest corner of the modal landscape