Bitter Branches
View chords used in this chart
Cm Bb Gm Ab x3 (powerchord)
Cm Bb Gm Gm (powerchord)
Cm Bb
Bitter branches
Cm Bb
spreading out.
Cm Bb
There's none more bitter
Cm Bb
than the wood.
Gm Ab
Into the wide world,
Gm Ab
it grows,
Cm Bb
twisting under
Cm Bb
soldier's feet,
Cm Bb
standing in line
Cm Bb
and the damp earth underneath.
Gm Ab
Holding up their rifles
Gm Ab
high,
Gm Ab
holding their young wives
Gm Ab
who wave goodbye.
Bb Cm x2 (powerchord)
Ab Cm (powerchord)
Gm Gm (powerchord)
Cm Bb
Hold up the clear glass
Cm Bb
to look and see
Cm Bb
soldiers standing
Cm Bb
and the roots twist underneath.
Gm Ab
Their young wives with white hands
Gm Ab
wave goodbye.
Gm Ab
Their arms as bitter branches
Gm Ab
spreading into the world.
Cm Bb
Wave goodbye,
Gm Ab
Wave goodbye.
How to play Bitter Branches
Use the controls above to change the key and text size. Follow the highlighted chords while listening, then practice each section slowly before playing at the original tempo.
What is the starting chord?
The first identified chord is Cm. You can transpose without leaving the page.
Can I play it on guitar or keyboard?
Yes. The chord progression works on acoustic guitar, electric guitar and keyboard. Adapt the voicings to your instrument and level.