Chord Distribution Analysis

Chord SymbolCountFrequency
Dm7b518.3%
G13b918.3%
Cm7b518.3%
F13b918.3%
Bbm7b518.3%
Eb13b918.3%
Am718.3%
D918.3%

No obvious ii-V patterns detected.


Harmonic Highlights

  • The progression features a sequential descent of minor ii-V cells (Dm7b5–G13b9, Cm7b5–F13b9, Bbm7b5–Eb13b9) that move downward in whole steps, creating a sense of constant modulation.
  • A chromatic turnaround sequence (Am7–D9–Dbmaj7–C13b9) utilizes the Dbmaj7 as a tritone substitute for the ii (Gm7) or a chromatic approach to the primary dominant.
  • The consistent application of 13b9 tensions on dominant chords implies the Half-Whole Diminished scale, providing the characteristic “biting” tension found in Horace Silver’s hard-bop style.

Improvisation Focus Fluid navigation of sequential minor ii-V-i patterns.

Difficulty Rating 4/5; the rapid shifting of non-resolving tonal centers requires high-level harmonic agility and precise voice-leading at fast tempos.