Conversation with John Stowell and Genil Castro, Part 2: Further Discussion of Bossa Nova, Samba and Harmonic Strategies Using Reharmonization and Melodic Minor Modes

In part two of their guitar conversation, John Stowell and Brazilian guitarist Genil Castro turn to another well-known Tom Jobim tune, "Dindi." Genil plays his reharmonized version of the intro, the two alternate solo sections, and then they unpack the harmony behind what they played.

What's covered

• Genil's reharmonization of the "Dindi" intro — parallel minor chords, inversions, and a deceptive cadence back to C — with a nod to Lenny Breau's cascading-harmonics technique
• Using melodic minor chords as dominant chords, and broader applications of that harmony in other contexts
• Bill Evans-style moves: minor chords moving in whole steps, and putting "harmony in the cracks" between slow-moving changes
• Chromatic passing chords and sus voicings (with open strings) to add motion between two major chords a whole step apart
• Tension and release a half step above or below the target, and how much tension fits the song
• Strategies for improvising over non-diatonic progressions and using rhythmic motifs in solos

An intermediate-level conversation for players who want practical reharmonization ideas and a deeper feel for how bossa nova harmony connects to jazz.