Chord Distribution Analysis

Chord SymbolCountFrequency
Bm228.6%
D7114.3%
Gmaj7114.3%
F#m7114.3%
Em7114.3%
Am7114.3%

Key Patterns Detected

PatternFunctionFrequency
D7 -> Gmaj7Resolution (Major)1

Harmonic Highlights

  • The progression opens with a I7 (D7) to IVmaj7 (Gmaj7) movement, blending blues-inflected Mixolydian harmony with diatonic major function.
  • Swallow utilizes descending ii-V sequences that frequently bypass standard tonic resolutions, favoring deceptive cadences into the relative minor (Bm).
  • The structure features “constant structure” movements where identical chord qualities shift by non-diatonic intervals, demanding quick shifts in tonal centers.
  • There is a recurring emphasis on the ii-V-I in B minor (C#m7b5 - F#7 - Bm), which acts as a secondary tonal pillar against the primary D major center.

Improvisation Focus Navigating chromatic ii-V-I cells and utilizing voice-leading to bridge the gaps between the frequent shifts between D major and B minor tonalities.

Difficulty Rating 3/5: While the tempo is typically moderate, the frequent modulations and non-functional jumps require a strong understanding of modal interchange and linear voice leading.