Chord Distribution Analysis

Chord SymbolCountFrequency
Bm56.8%
A/D45.4%
D34.1%
G/A34.1%
Em934.1%
Gmaj734.1%
F#m734.1%
A/C#22.7%

Key Patterns Detected

PatternFunctionFrequency
F#7 -> Bm7Resolution (Minor)1
C7sus -> Fmaj7Resolution (Major)1
Ab7sus -> Dbmaj7Resolution (Major)1
B7sus -> Emaj7Resolution (Major)1
D7sus -> Gmaj7Resolution (Major)1
F7sus -> Bbmaj7Resolution (Major)1
Db7sus -> Gbmaj7Resolution (Major)1
G7sus -> Cmaj7Resolution (Major)1

Harmonic Highlights

  • Utilizes a tonic pedal (D) across the opening I, V/I, and IV/I progression, creating an “Americana” folk-jazz aesthetic characteristic of Metheny’s style.
  • Employs a stepwise descending bass line (D - C# - B - A - G#) that transitions the harmony from the tonic to a secondary dominant (E/G# or V/V).
  • Frequent use of slash chords (A/G, Dmaj7/F#) creates smooth voice leading and avoids the tension of traditional root-position dominant chords.
  • Incorporates a V/vi (F#7) to vi (Bm7) movement, providing a brief chromatic departure from the primary D major tonality.

Improvisation Focus D Major/Ionian with a focus on melodic chord-tone targeting over the shifting bass notes.

Difficulty Rating 3 (Intermediate): The challenge lies in navigating the descending bass lines and slash chords while maintaining the lyrical, singing quality essential to the composition.


📚 Standard Available in:

The Real Book - Volume II
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