The Appeal of Irregular Time Signatures: A Collection of Songs in 5/4 Time
People who listen to music while consciously thinking “What time signature is this?” are most likely those with experience playing instruments.
That said, even without any knowledge of music theory, everyone has probably had at least one or two moments when a song just felt hard to catch the rhythm of.
That song might be using an irregular time signature.
So this time, I’d like to introduce songs in 5/4 time—a meter you don’t often encounter—across various genres, and compare it with commonly used meters in popular music such as 4/4, the waltz’s 3/4, and 6/8 (often called “hachi-roku” in Japanese).
You might even discover that a song you love actually uses 5/4 time!
If you’re interested in the world of odd meters, read on!
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The Appeal of Odd Time Signatures: A Collection of Songs in 5/4 Time (1–10)
GATEcinema staff
Formed in 2006, cinema staff is a four-piece rock band that captivates fans with a sound that incorporates a variety of genres, including alternative rock, emo, and post-rock.
“GATE,” a track included on their debut single “Suheisen wa Yoru Ugoku,” leaves a lasting impression with its ensemble featuring striking guitar arpeggios.
You can really feel how the irregular meter in the B section, along with the 5/4 time used in the A section, enhances the impact of the straightforward chorus melody.
Despite its complex song structure, it’s a melodic and lyrical number.
Seven DaysSting
Sting, the singer-songwriter also known as the bassist and vocalist of The Police who was active in the UK around 1980.
The song Seven Days from his fifth album Ten Summoner’s Tales leaves a pleasant, lingering impression with its airy ensemble.
The arrangement proceeds entirely in 5/4 time, and you can feel melodies and tensions that could only arise from this beat.
It’s an emotional number I recommend to both fans of odd time signatures and those who aren’t—give it a listen.
pure whiteMorohoshi Sumire
This song is striking for its hopeful lyrics and soothing melody.
The lyrics, which evoke a sense of possibility for the future, will encourage anyone chasing their dreams.
Released in October 2019, the track is included on Sumire Morohoshi’s debut mini-album “smile” and was used as the opening theme for the TV anime “Ascendance of a Bookworm.” It’s a perfect song not only for anime fans but also for those about to take a new step forward or who want to keep believing in their dreams.
Combined with Morohoshi’s clear, translucent vocals, it’s a piece that truly resonates with the heart.
The Appeal of Odd Time Signatures: A Collection of Songs in 5/4 Time (11–20)
RA-SE-NLUNA SEA
LUNA SEA is a five-piece rock band that continues to perform energetically today, representing the visual-kei bands that dominated the J-POP scene in the 1990s.
“RA-SE-N,” a track from their fifth album STYLE—which drew attention again when its self-cover version was released in 2023—stands out with a rhythm that is immediately recognizable as irregular and an ensemble that conveys a sense of depth.
The arrangement proceeds in 5/4 from the intro, effectively heightening the impact of the big chorus where it returns to 4/4.
It’s a cool rock tune that showcases the full potential of LUNA SEA.
POOLtricot
Songs that skillfully incorporate irregular time signatures have tricot’s experimental and distinctive resonance.
For those accustomed to the universal 4/4 meter, they may feel fresh and challenging.
Surrender yourself to the complex rhythms and ride the invigorating waves of sound.
Released in October 2013, this work is marked by lyrics that depict the contradictions and struggles of everyday life.
It conveys the importance of continuing to evolve without fearing change, as well as criticism of self-centered behavior.
It’s a recommended track for those just getting into tricot or anyone seeking a new musical experience.
Hangin’ TreeQueens of the Stone Age
Queens of the Stone Age—whose band name can also be interpreted as “gay men from the Stone Age” and are known by the abbreviation QOTSA—are a five-piece rock band.
Their track Hangin’ Tree, included on the third album Songs for the Deaf, creates its own world through the disorienting feel of odd time signatures within its driving momentum.
The dark atmosphere and hysterical ensemble, combined with its 5/4 rhythm, give it a uniquely addictive quality.
It’s an eccentric number with thrilling arrangements that will get your adrenaline pumping.
River ManNick Drake
An impressive song that fully captures the allure of 5/4 time.
Nick Drake’s delicate vocals and the warm melodies of the acoustic guitar seize the heart and won’t let go.
Featured on his debut album “Five Leaves Left,” released in July 1969, this piece is marked by imagery of a river symbolizing the passage of time and lyrics that explore the meaning of life.
A gentle atmosphere tinged with melancholy invites listeners into deep introspection.
It’s perfect for those seeking solace in music or curious about the world of irregular meters.
Lend it your ear, and you may feel as though you’re gazing upon a beautiful landscape.