We spent some time discussing the idea of “Aural Logic” (Link). ‘Time to Smile’ has a melodic and harmonic logic to it that makes it seem totally “right”. The melody sounds both familiar and fresh. The bridge complements the main theme perfectly.

The supporting harmony doesn’t rely on familiar II-V-I changes but is held together with “Sister Chords” (Link) – Bb9 and Gm7. Redd’s chord voicings are key in making the progressions move along.