Most of us are familiar with the Natural Minor Scale (Aeolian) but seldom practice the Melodic Minor Scale.
The formula for Melodic Minor Scale is 1 2 b3 4 5 6 7
Therefore the D Melodic Minor Scale will be D E F G A B C#
A simple exercise to try this scale is over the II V I progression in C
The chords are Dm7 G7 Cmaj7.
When the musicians play a G7 chord, try playing the D Melodic Minor Scale.
It is equivalent to a G dominant Lydian Scale. Sound even more jazzy now!
Have fun.
