Chord Distribution Analysis

Chord SymbolCountFrequency
Gm7512.2%
C7512.2%
F649.8%
Bbmaj749.8%
Fmaj724.9%
F#0724.9%
C7b924.9%
Am724.9%

Key Patterns Detected

PatternFunctionFrequency
Gm7 -> C7Setup (Major Key)3
Gm7 -> C7b9Setup (Major Key)2
Am7 -> D7#9Setup (Major Key)2
D7#9 -> Gm7Resolution (Minor)2
F7/A -> Bbmaj7Resolution (Major)2
Cm7 -> F7Setup (Major Key)1
F7 -> Bbmaj7Resolution (Major)1
Bbm7 -> Eb7Setup (Major Key)1
Eb7 -> Abmaj7Resolution (Major)1
C7 -> Fmaj7Resolution (Major)1

Harmonic Highlights

  • The use of #I°7 (F#°7) functions as a chromatic connector between the tonic and the iim7 chord, a staple of Niehaus’s bebop-influenced writing.
  • Cyclic iii-VI-ii-V turnarounds (Am7-D7#9-Gm7-C7) introduce altered dominant tensions, necessitating a shift from diatonic F major to G melodic minor over the D7#9.
  • A subdominant chromatic climb (IV - #IV°7 - I/V) creates harmonic momentum through the Bbmaj7 to B°7 transition, leading back to the tonic.
  • Secondary ii-V sequences (Cm7-F7) are utilized to tonicize the IV chord, shifting the tonal center briefly toward Bb major.

Improvisation Focus The F Major Bebop Scale (F, G, A, Bb, C, C#, D, E) is the primary tool for navigating the diatonic movements and chromatic passing tones.

Difficulty Rating 3/5. The tune follows functional jazz logic but requires fluid navigation of frequent secondary dominants and chromatic passing diminished chords at typically brisk tempos.


📚 Standard Available in:

The Real Book - Volume II
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