Moontrane, The (G minor) - Jazz Analysis & Chords

Harmonic Highlights

• The progression utilizes non-functional movement by descending whole steps (Gmaj7#11 to Fmaj7#11 to Ebmaj7#11), creating a modern, “floating” Lydian atmosphere.
• It features abrupt modulations between distant tonal centers, such as the opening Dmaj7 shifting toward Bbmaj7 without standard ii-V-I preparation.
• Parallel major 7th structures define the harmonic language, requiring the soloist to treat each chord as an independent modal event rather than a functional sequence.
• The inclusion of altered dominants like Db7#5#9 provides sharp chromatic tension that resolves into new, non-diatonic major keys.

Improvisation Focus Constant modal shifting through the Lydian scale to navigate rapid non-diatonic changes.

Difficulty Rating 4/5: The lack of functional cycles and the fast harmonic rhythm require advanced mental transposition and linear agility.