Metric modulation signifies a change in tempo with the new tempo somehow having
some mathematical relation to the original (Hoenig, Weidenmueller Pg. 4). There are two types
of metric modulation, implied, and real. Real metric modulation signifies a true change in tempo.
Such as the quarter note in one tempo becoming the half note in another, which would be double
time. In this case the new tempo would be twice as fast as the original. This is usually applied by
Jerad Lippi Time Travels
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a pre-determination among the musicians in the ensemble, whether it is written in the music, or
talked about beforehand.
Implied metric modulation or implied time incorporates cross-rhythms and superimposed
rhythms to give the illusion of a change in tempo, when in fact the original pulse remains the
same. The tempo sounds as if it is modulating but is in fact not. This can also be referred to as
“Superimposed Metric Modulation” (Hoenig, Weidenmueller. Pg 4). Ari does this by playing
grooves and phrasing them with cross-rhythms and superimposed rhythms. This device does not
have to be pre-arranged and can be improvised freely within the original song form.
Below are some examples of implied metric modulation.
This is an example of a cross-rhythmic backbeat groove in 4/4 phrased using dotted quarter