Monk's Music is often cited as one of the focal points of Thelonious Monk's six-year affiliation (1955-1961) with the Riverside label. Although the original disc clocked in at slightly over 30 minutes, packed into that half hour are not only the introduction of a few of Monk's signature compositions, but also some amazing interactions from the assembled ensemble. Joining Thelonious Monk (piano) during these two recording sessions are Ray Copeland (trumpet), Gigi Gryce (alto sax), Coleman Hawkins (tenor sax), John Coltrane (tenor sax), Wilbur Ware (bass), and Art Blakey (drums). The true meaning of the album's title exists beyond just Thelonious, as the opening sacred prelude, 'Abide With Me,' was written by William H. Monk. This brief piece features only the horn quartet, foreshadowing their importance throughout the album. The angular stride style featured during the chorus of 'Well You Needn't' is tackled with the same nimble authority as Monk's completely unfettered solos. If his ability to swing and his utilization of atomic clock accuracy have ever been questioned, the answer lies no further. So utterly free and fantastic, certain passages command immediate review to be fully comprehended. Hearing Coltrane and Hawkins together is admittedly part of the charm in these sides. 'Ruby, My Dear' is bathed in the smoky essence of Hawkins' rich textures and Coltrane's playful cat-and-mouse aggression. Blakey gently propels the rhythm, never getting in the way and sporting a serene snare groove throughout. 'Off Minor' is largely led by Monk, with solos that follow into and out of the memorable chorus that sparkles with the full involvement of the horn and rhythm sections. The same is true for this definitive version of 'Epistrophy' -- perhaps the zenith collaborative effort between Coltrane and Monk. Additionally, Blakey is in top form, with a solo that borders on spastic precision.
| Sample | Title/Composer | Performer | Time | Stream |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Thelonious Monk / Thelonious Monk Septet | 00:55 | ||
| 2 | Thelonious Monk / Thelonious Monk Septet | 11:27 | ||
| 3 | Thelonious Monk / Thelonious Monk Septet | 05:28 | ||
| 4 | Thelonious Monk / Thelonious Monk Septet | 05:11 | ||
| 5 | Thelonious Monk / Thelonious Monk Septet | 10:48 | ||
| 6 | Thelonious Monk / Thelonious Monk Septet | 04:40 | ||
| 7 | Thelonious Monk / Thelonious Monk Septet | 05:15 | ||
| 8 | Thelonious Monk / Thelonious Monk Septet | 04:44 |
blue highlight denotes track pickMonday, December 21, 2020
Song information for Misterioso - Thelonious Monk on AllMusic. The inquisitive nature of Thelonious Monk’s compositions as well as performance style is at the heart of “Misterioso” - which remained in Monk’s repertoire from the mid ‘40s until the early ‘70s when he retired altogether. Find Thelonious Monk credit information on AllMusic. A brilliant composer and criminally underrated pianist whose sense of rhythm, space, and harmony made him one of the founders of modern jazz.
- “Don’t play everything (or every time); let some things go by What you don’t play can be more important than what you do.” — Thelonious Monk In 1960 Thelonious Monk (October 10, 1917 – February 17, 1982) delivered his 25 Tips for Musicians. Could Monk’s eccentric compositions, and piano playing noted for dissonances, Continue reading 'Thelonious Monk’s 25 Tips for.
- Thelonious Sphere Monk (Rocky Mount, North Carolina 10th October 1917 - Hartsdale, New York 17th February 1982) was a jazz pianist and composer. Widely considered as one of the most important musicians in jazz – he is one of only five jazz musicians to be featured on the cover of Time – Monk had a unique improvisational style and made numerous contributions to the standard jazz repertoire.
- The best of Thelonious Monk. Thelonious Monk Home. WorldCat Home About WorldCat Help. Search for Library Items Search for Lists Search for Contacts Search for a Library. You can easily create a free account. User Name: Password: Remember me on this computer.
Some real finds and compelling rediscoveries from Thelonious Monk, Dave Brubeck, Art Blakey, Duke Ellington, Nat King Cole, Charles Mingus, Shirley Scott, and more
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