Chord Distribution Analysis

Chord SymbolCountFrequency
C1117.2%
Csus57.8%
Bb/Ab46.2%
Abmaj734.7%
G/B23.1%
F#7b923.1%
Bm23.1%
F/G23.1%

Key Patterns Detected

PatternFunctionFrequency
C#m7 -> F#7b9Setup (Major Key)1
F#7b9/B -> BmResolution (Minor)1
Am7 -> D7susSetup (Major Key)1
Gm7b5/C -> C7b9Setup (Minor Key)1
C7b9 -> Fm9Resolution (Minor)1

Harmonic Highlights

  • Frequent tonicization of the iii chord (Bm) through the ii-V sequence C#m7 - F#7b9, creating a sophisticated temporary minor-key shift within a major landscape.
  • Heavy use of slash chords (G/B, F/G) to create “pastoral” voice leading and suspended textures, a hallmark of Metheny’s Americana-influenced harmonic language.
  • The use of F/G (G9sus4) as a dominant substitute provides a soft, non-functioning dominant sound that avoids the tension of a traditional G7.

Improvisation Focus G Major/Lydian scales, specifically emphasizing chord tones during the ii-V transition to B minor to navigate the non-diatonic C# and A# notes.

Difficulty Rating 3/5: The ballad tempo provides ample time for note selection, but the specific slash-chord inversions and secondary dominants require precise melodic targeting and sophisticated phrasing.


📚 Standard Available in:

The Real Book - Volume II
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