Chord Distribution Analysis

Chord SymbolCountFrequency
Ab7612.2%
Ebm748.2%
Dm748.2%
G748.2%
Cmaj736.1%
Bb724.1%
Ebmaj724.1%
A7#1124.1%

Key Patterns Detected

PatternFunctionFrequency
Ebm7 -> Ab7Setup (Major Key)4
Bb7 -> Ebmaj7Resolution (Major)2
Db7 -> Gbmaj7Resolution (Major)2
Gm7 -> C7Setup (Major Key)2
Cm7 -> F7Setup (Major Key)1
Dm7 -> G7b13Setup (Major Key)1
G7b13 -> Cmaj7Resolution (Major)1
Bm7 -> E7Setup (Major Key)1
G7 -> Cmaj7Resolution (Major)1
Dm7 -> G7Setup (Major Key)1

Harmonic Highlights

  • Features a striking opening shift from Cmaj7 to a ii-V in the bIII key (Ebm7-Ab7), immediately establishing Monk’s signature harmonic displacement.
  • Employs frequent tritone substitutions and chromatic dominant chains, notably the A7#11 and Gb7, which function as unconventional pivots between key centers.
  • Utilizes deceptive resolutions and “side-slipping,” such as the G7 moving unexpectedly to Dbmaj7, bypassing the anticipated C minor tonicization.

Improvisation Focus The Whole Tone scale and Lydian Dominant modes are critical for navigating Monk’s specific use of augmented fifths and #11 extensions.

Difficulty Rating 4/5. The rapid modulation between distant tonal centers and the non-functional nature of several dominant chords require advanced harmonic navigation and precise ear training.


📚 Standard Available in:

The Real Book - Volume II
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