African Queen, The (F minor) - Jazz Analysis & Chords

Harmonic Highlights

• The progression features a persistent i–bII7 (Cm9 to Db9) oscillation, creating a dark, Phrygian-influenced modal atmosphere.
• The Db9 acts as a non-functional neighbor chord rather than a tritone substitute, emphasizing color over dominant resolution.
• The harmonic rhythm is exceptionally slow and static, shifting the focus from vertical changes to a repetitive, pedal-driven bass ostinato.
• The absence of traditional ii–V–I cadences forces a departure from functional bebop language toward a more atmospheric, soul-jazz aesthetic.

Improvisation Focus C Phrygian scale (C, Db, Eb, F, G, Ab, Bb).

Difficulty Rating 2/5; the repetitive two-chord structure is easy for beginners to navigate, though sustaining melodic interest over a static groove requires significant rhythmic maturity.