Chord Distribution Analysis
| Chord Symbol | Count | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Fm7 | 5 | 8.6% |
| G7 | 5 | 8.6% |
| Bb7 | 4 | 6.9% |
| Eb7 | 4 | 6.9% |
| Ab7 | 4 | 6.9% |
| Dbmaj7 | 4 | 6.9% |
| Bbm7 | 3 | 5.2% |
| C7 | 3 | 5.2% |
Key Patterns Detected
| Pattern | Function | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Ab7 -> Dbmaj7 | Resolution (Major) | 4 |
| Gm7b5 -> C7b13 | Setup (Minor Key) | 3 |
| C7b9 -> Fm7 | Resolution (Minor) | 2 |
| Fm7 -> Bb7 | Setup (Major Key) | 2 |
| Eb7b9 -> Abmaj7 | Resolution (Major) | 1 |
| Dm7b5 -> G7b9#5 | Setup (Minor Key) | 1 |
| Em7 -> A7 | Setup (Major Key) | 1 |
| A7 -> Dm7 | Resolution (Minor) | 1 |
| Dm7 -> G7 | Setup (Major Key) | 1 |
| C7b13 -> Fm7 | Resolution (Minor) | 1 |
| C7b13 -> Fm6 | Resolution (Minor) | 1 |
🎼 Sheet Music
Find Lead Sheet on Sheet Music Direct (PDF)Harmonic Highlights
- The progression utilizes extended dominant chains (D7#5#9 - G7b5#9 - C7b9), functioning as a sequence of secondary dominants (V/V/V to V/V to V) that intensifies the resolution to Fm7.
- A prominent cycle of fifths sequence (Bb7 - Eb7 - Ab7 - Dbmaj7) shifts the tonal center toward the relative major (Ab) before pivoting back to the tonic minor via a Gm7b5 turnaround.
- Johnny Mandel employs sophisticated altered tensions (b9, #9, b5, b13) on dominant chords to create a dark, cinematic harmonic texture characteristic of modern noir jazz.
Improvisation Focus The Altered Scale (Super Locrian) is the primary tool for navigating the frequent secondary dominants and their high-tension resolutions.
Difficulty Rating 4/5: The dense harmonic rhythm and constant modulation between minor and relative major require advanced knowledge of altered scales and precise voice leading.