Chord Distribution Analysis

Chord SymbolCountFrequency
Dbmaj7519.2%
Ebm7b5/Db415.4%
G7b5b9311.5%
Gbmaj727.7%
C7#927.7%
Fm727.7%
Ebm727.7%
Abm7/Db27.7%

Key Patterns Detected

PatternFunctionFrequency
C7#9 -> Fm7Resolution (Minor)2
Fm7 -> Bb7#9Setup (Major Key)1
Bb7#9 -> Ebm7Resolution (Minor)1
Ebm7 -> Ab7Setup (Major Key)1
Ab7 -> Dbmaj7Resolution (Major)1

Harmonic Highlights

  • The composition utilizes a prolonged IVmaj7 (Dbmaj7) to #ivø7 (Ebm7b5/Db) oscillation, creating a shimmering Lydian-Dorian modal atmosphere rather than standard tonic-dominant functionalism.
  • Zawinul employs chromatic “side-slipping” via G7b5b9 to Gbmaj7, bypassing traditional resolution patterns in favor of parallel harmonic movement and tritone relationships.
  • Slash chords such as Ebm7/Ab and Abm7/Db function as sophisticated dominant pedal points, blurring the lines between ii-V progressions and suspended modal colors.

Improvisation Focus Db Lydian / Ab Major Pentatonic, focusing on the #11 (G natural) to navigate the non-diatonic shifts.

Difficulty Rating 4/5; the unconventional harmonic rhythm and constant modal substitutions require advanced voice-leading skills and a deep understanding of non-functional jazz harmony.


📚 Standard Available in:

The Real Book - Volume I
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