Chord Distribution Analysis
| Chord Symbol | Count | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Bm7 | 4 | 10.5% |
| Cm7 | 3 | 7.9% |
| Abm7 | 3 | 7.9% |
| F#m7 | 3 | 7.9% |
| Gmaj7 | 3 | 7.9% |
| Cmaj7 | 3 | 7.9% |
| Fm7 | 2 | 5.3% |
| Bbm7 | 2 | 5.3% |
No obvious ii-V patterns detected.
Harmonic Highlights
- The progression utilizes a sequential chain of minor 7th chords descending in perfect fourths (Cm7 to Bm7), creating a sense of constant melodic transposition without functional resolution.
- Strategic non-diatonic Lydian shifts (Gmaj7#11, Dmaj7#11) provide a “floating” harmonic palette typical of Harrell’s modern post-bop aesthetic.
- Chromatic side-slipping between F#m7, Fmaj7, and Cmaj7 facilitates a sophisticated bridge between distant tonal centers while maintaining voice-leading continuity.
- The use of A/B (B9sus4) serves as a dominant pedal point, functioning as a pivot to stabilize the harmony before the cycle restarts.
Improvisation Focus Dorian and Lydian modal shifting to navigate the cycle of fourths and non-functional major chord extensions.
Difficulty Rating 4/5: The rapid transposition of minor sequences and the lack of traditional ii-V-I cadences require advanced modal fluency and precise melodic sequencing.