- Modal interchange: The song is based on the harmonic structure of the blues, but Davis uses modal interchange to add complexity and interest. This technique involves borrowing chords and progressions from other musical modes, such as the Dorian or Lydian modes, and using them in place of the traditional blues chords.
- Polychords: Davis also uses polychords, which are chords that are played simultaneously but contain notes from different keys or modes. This creates a rich and dissonant sound that adds tension and excitement to the music.
- Altered dominant chords: Davis uses altered dominant chords, which are dominant chords that have been altered by adding or subtracting notes. This technique creates a sense of anticipation and resolution and helps to build tension in the music.
The combined effect of these elements of jazz harmony is a composition that is both harmonically complex and emotionally powerful. "All Blues" is a true masterpiece of jazz harmony and a testament to the genius of Miles Davis.
Here are some additional specific examples of how Miles Davis uses jazz harmony in "All Blues":
- The song is based on the harmonic structure of the blues, but Davis uses modal interchange to add complexity and interest. For example, the bridge section of the song is in the Dorian mode, which gives it a darker, more minor sound.
- Davis also uses polychords throughout the song. For example, the opening chords are a polychord that consists of the E major chord played simultaneously with the F#7 chord. This creates a rich and dissonant sound that adds tension and excitement to the music.
- Davis also uses altered dominant chords throughout the song. For example, the dominant chord in the bridge section of the song is an altered dominant chord that has been altered by adding a flat 9th note. This creates a sense of anticipation and resolution and helps to build tension in the music.
The combined effect of these elements of jazz harmony is a composition that is both harmonically complex and emotionally powerful. "All Blues" is a true masterpiece of jazz harmony and a testament to the genius of Miles Davis.