Chord Distribution Analysis

Chord SymbolCountFrequency
Abmaj7614.3%
Eb7511.9%
F749.5%
Bbm749.5%
Ab737.1%
Dbmaj737.1%
D0724.8%
Am712.4%

Key Patterns Detected

PatternFunctionFrequency
F7 -> Bbm7Resolution (Minor)4
Bbm7 -> Eb7Setup (Major Key)4
Eb7 -> Abmaj7Resolution (Major)4
Ab7 -> Dbmaj7Resolution (Major)3
D07 -> Am7Resolution (Minor)1
Dm7 -> G7Setup (Major Key)1
Gm7b5 -> C7Setup (Minor Key)1
Fm7 -> Bb7Setup (Major Key)1
Dbm7 -> Gb7Setup (Major Key)1

Harmonic Highlights

  • Features a persistent I-VI-ii-V cycle (Abmaj7-F7-Bbm7-Eb7) that establishes a rhythmic, cyclical propulsion typical of Monk’s modern stride influence.
  • Utilizes chromatic voice leading from Dbmaj7 to D°7, creating a sharp diminished tension that resolves toward the dominant.
  • The bridge incorporates sophisticated ii-V sequences and tritone substitutions (Am7-Ab7-Dbmaj7), requiring rapid navigation through distantly related tonal centers.

Improvisation Focus The Ab Whole-Tone scale and Lydian Dominant extensions (#11) to capture the signature dissonant clusters and angularity of Monk’s melodic style.

Difficulty Rating 4/5. The composition demands advanced rhythmic syncopation and the technical facility to navigate dense, chromatic harmonic shifts at high speeds.


📚 Standard Available in:

The Real Book - Volume II
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