Chord Distribution Analysis
| Chord Symbol | Count | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Bbmaj7 | 11 | 34.4% |
| Am7 | 5 | 15.6% |
| Am7/D | 2 | 6.2% |
| A/Bb | 2 | 6.2% |
| Dadd9 | 2 | 6.2% |
| Bb/C | 2 | 6.2% |
| Fmaj7 | 2 | 6.2% |
| D7sus | 2 | 6.2% |
Key Patterns Detected
| Pattern | Function | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Em7b5 -> A7b9sus | Setup (Minor Key) | 1 |
🎼 Sheet Music
Find Lead Sheet on Sheet Music Direct (PDF)Harmonic Highlights
- The progression emphasizes the bVImaj7 (Bbmaj7) to i (Dm) relationship, utilizing Am7/D to create a suspended, modal tonic sound rather than a traditional dominant resolution.
- The A/Bb polychord introduces a striking Lydian Augmented color, a signature Metheny voicing that functions as a chromatic tension over the submediant.
- Modal interchange is prominent through the juxtaposition of Dadd9 (Major) and Dm (Natural Minor), shifting the tonal brightness to reflect the composition’s “light and shadow” aesthetic.
- Slash chords like Bb/C function as dominant substitutes (C11), facilitating smooth linear bass movement while avoiding heavy functional cadences.
Improvisation Focus The D Aeolian scale is central, but players must target the #11 (E) over Bbmaj7 to capture the essential Lydian character of the piece.
Difficulty Rating 3/5. While the harmonic rhythm is slow, the non-functional slash chords and specific modal colorations require a sophisticated melodic ear beyond standard bebop vocabulary.
📚 Standard Available in:
The Real Book - Volume I
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