Phase Dance (B minor) - Jazz Analysis & Chords

Chord Distribution Analysis

No obvious ii-V patterns detected.

Harmonic Highlights:

• The progression utilizes descending stepwise root motion (B-Bb-A-G), creating a “floating” modal atmosphere that avoids traditional V-I functional resolutions.
• Bbmaj7#11 functions as a non-diatonic Lydian neighbor chord, providing a cinematic, bright contrast to the B minor tonic center.
• Constant use of upper extensions (9, 13sus, 69) emphasizes harmonic color and “shimmer,” a hallmark of the Pat Metheny/Lyle Mays compositional style.

Improvisation Focus: Modal interchange, specifically shifting between B Aeolian and Bb Lydian.

Difficulty Rating: 3 (Intermediate). While the slow harmonic rhythm is forgiving, the performer must accurately navigate non-functional chromatic shifts and maintain melodic continuity across the modal changes.