Chord Distribution Analysis

Chord SymbolCountFrequency
D9sus833.3%
F9sus833.3%
Eb9sus416.7%
C#m9416.7%

No obvious ii-V patterns detected.


Harmonic Highlights

  • Employs non-functional modal harmony, utilizing 9sus4 voicings to suppress traditional dominant-to-tonic resolutions and create a sense of “suspension.”
  • Features tertiary and stepwise root movements (D to F, F to Eb) rather than standard cycle-of-fifths progressions, emphasizing a shifting tonal landscape.
  • The C#m9 chord provides a distinct modal shift, breaking the established suspended texture with a minor 9th quality before returning to the D9sus “home” center.

Improvisation Focus Modal shifting using the Mixolydian or Dorian scale for each chord duration.

Difficulty Rating 3 (Intermediate): While the slow harmonic rhythm provides time, the lack of functional “pull” requires the soloist to sustain interest through sophisticated melodic phrasing rather than standard jazz patterns.


Standard Available in:

  • The Real Book - Volume I
Check the Hal Leonard Jazz Song Finder to make sure that the standard is indeed in the book.