Take The A Train (D minor) - Jazz Analysis & Chords

Harmonic Highlights

• The signature II7 chord (D7#11) functions as a secondary dominant (V/V) that utilizes the Lydian Dominant sound before resolving to the ii7 (Dm7).
• The progression relies on standard ii-V-I cadences (Dm7-G7-C6) to establish and confirm the C Major tonal center.
• The bridge modulates to the subdominant (Fmaj7), providing a classic AABA contrast and harmonic relief from the tonic.
• Use of the G7b9 altered dominant creates high-tension chromatic leading tones for a strong resolution back to the tonic.

Improvisation Focus

• D Lydian Dominant scale (4th mode of A Melodic Minor) over the D7#11 chord.

Difficulty Rating

• 2/5: The harmonic rhythm is slow and the AABA structure is predictable, though the non-diatonic II7 chord requires specific scale awareness beyond basic major scales.