The Crunch Chord

Whenever we dedicate time to internalizing musical material, it is ideal to choose structures that are
applicable to many common jazz situations. This lesson focuses on one such structure that I have
affectionately labelled the “crunch chord.” There are two main reasons this voicing is so versatile. First,
it contains 2 tritones, so it can be used on 4 different dominant chords. Second, it contains many
different smaller chords within its overarching structure. The relationships between these chords within
the voicing create a unique harmonic texture that is useful for harmonizing any melody of your
choosing.

Spelling: Bb Db E G A C

Chords Within the Voicing

 Bb diminished 7th + C Maj 6 (sharing the E and G)

 A7 chord with b9 on bottom and #9 on top
 C Major 1st inversion triad with 7 and b9
 “Sunny Side” chord
 ???

2 Tritones = 4 Dominant Chords from 1 Voicing

Bb/E is the tritone of both C and F#. Db/G is the tritone of both Eb and A.

 C7: 7 b9 3 5 13 1
 Eb7: 5 7 b9 3 #11 13
 F#7: 3 5 7 b9 #9 #11
 A7: b9 3 5 7 1 #9

2-5-1 Practice

 1 voicing through 4 keys (F, Ab, B, D)

 4 voicings through 1 key

Harmonizing Melodies (Outside in approach)

 Harmonize every melody note with the crunch chord

 Implement the crunch chord within the context of familiar harmonies