In this episode of Jazz Bass Quick Bites, we’re digging deeper into the Dmin7 chord, taking a look at both harmony and melodic construction. In the video edition, I review the most important notes in chord construction and then add a third note. This presents more voicing options, so we look at both closed and open chord voicings; then we apply them in different combinations to rhythmic comping. With the foundation set, we create a melody, emphasizing the chord tones of a Dmin7, while connecting them with additional notes from the D Dorian scale. You can check out the chord voices, comping patterns, and melody in the examples below. I encourage you to give them a try; then create your own comping patterns and melodies!
EXAMPLE 1 – This includes four different voicings for a Dmin7 chord that you can play on your bass – two closed voicings and two open voicings. It also includes three different comping patterns.
You can find EXAMPLE 1 HERE
EXAMPLE 2 – This includes the melody that I played in the video, which is constructed by emphasizing notes of the Dmin7 chord and connecting them with additional notes from the D Dorian scale!
You can find EXAMPLE 2 HERE
You can find EXAMPLE 2 with TAB HERE
Once you play through the music – send me a message and let me know what you think! Even better, make a video of yourself playing the line and send it to me!