Chord Distribution Analysis

Chord SymbolCountFrequency
Cm71231.6%
Db9410.5%
Dbmaj7410.5%
Gm7410.5%
Abmaj737.9%
Gsus25.3%
Eb/F25.3%
Ab725.3%

Key Patterns Detected

PatternFunctionFrequency
Gm7 -> C7Setup (Major Key)1
C7 -> Gm7Resolution (Minor)1
G7#5 -> Cm7Resolution (Minor)1

Harmonic Highlights

  • The progression utilizes a suspended opening (Gsus to Eb/F), creating a modal ambiguity that avoids immediate tonic resolution in Eb major.
  • Frequent oscillation between Cm7 and Db9 functions as a “side-stepping” bII dominant motion, injecting a bluesy, non-functional tension into the C minor tonal center.
  • Movement from Abmaj7 to Ab7 demonstrates modal interchange, shifting from the IV major to the IV dominant to facilitate a blues-inflected transition.
  • Use of slash chords and suspended voicings reflects Metheny’s signature fusion style, prioritizing quartal stacks over traditional tertian cadences.

Improvisation Focus C Dorian scale (emphasizing the tension between Bb and the chromatic shifts of the Db9 chord).

Difficulty Rating 3/5: The harmonic rhythm is steady, but the soloist must navigate non-resolving dominant chords and maintain melodic interest over static modal vamps at a high tempo.


📚 Standard Available in:

The Pat Metheny Real Book
🛒 Buy on Amazon
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Check the Hal Leonard Jazz Song Finder to make sure that the standard is indeed in the book before buying it.